Empirical Labs

USA, est. 1995 · 6 products across 2 categories

6
Total Products
2
Categories
$2,307
Avg Price
$692
From

About Empirical Labs

Empirical Labs has cultivated a legendary reputation within professional audio for its uniquely flavored, high-performance processors. Founded on a philosophy of sonic character and unconventional design, their products are instantly recognizable for their ability to impart a distinct and often aggressive warmth and punch to audio signals. The brand's commitment to quality and innovative circuitry has made it a favorite among engineers and producers seeking a signature sound.

Founded
1995
Country
USA
Segment
Premium
Target
Empirical Labs caters to professional mixing engineers, mastering engineers, and
Known For
Distressor compressor/limiter Fatso mastering compressor Unique 'character' processing 500 series format innovation EL9 Mike-e microphone preamp
PROS
  • • Exceptional sonic character and color
  • • Robust and reliable build quality
  • • Versatile processing capabilities
  • • Industry-standard for aggressive mastering
CONS
  • • Premium-priced, a significant investment
  • • Can be complex to master for beginners
  • • Distinctive sound may not suit all applications
  • • Limited product range compared to larger brands

Empirical Labs Products

Empirical Labs Pump - 500 Series Components

Empirical Labs Pump

500 Series Components

$989
Compressor for 500-Series API format, Adjustable input level with clip LED, 8 Selectable...
4.8 Expert Rating
Empirical Labs Fatso - EL7X - Compressors, Gates and De-essers

Empirical Labs Fatso - EL7X

Compressors, Gates and De-essers

$3,255
2-channel analog tape simulation and optimizer, With Classic Knee compression, Inputs and...
4.7 Expert Rating
Empirical Labs EL9 Mike-e - Preamps

Empirical Labs EL9 Mike-e

Preamps

$2,309
Microphone Preamp, Digitally controlled, With compressor, Extremely low inherent noise,...
4.6 Expert Rating
Empirical Labs EL8X-S Distressor - Compressors, Gates and De-essers

Empirical Labs EL8X-S Distressor

Compressors, Gates and De-essers

$4,398
Stereo distressor pair, Includes British Mode and Image Link functions, Includes 2...
4.7 Expert Rating
Empirical Labs EL8 X Distressor - Compressors, Gates and De-essers

Empirical Labs EL8 X Distressor

Compressors, Gates and De-essers

$2,199
Distressor, 1 Channel classic knee compressor, Tube saturation, Opto simulation, XLR...
4.8 Expert Rating
Empirical Labs EL-DS-V Derresser Vertical - 500 Series Components

Empirical Labs EL-DS-V Derresser Vertical

500 Series Components

$692
DerrEsser - De-esser, Module for the API-500 system, Dynamic multifunctional...
4.9 Expert Rating

Frequently Asked Questions About Empirical Labs

Yes, Dave Derr continues to be deeply involved in the design and engineering of Empirical Labs products, ensuring the brand's signature sonic character remains consistent.

The Distressor's unique blend of discrete and optical circuitry, along with its unusual distortion modes, provides a distinct aggressive and 'crunchy' sound not found in traditional compressors.

Many Empirical Labs products, particularly their 500 series modules, are designed for easy integration into existing 500-series racks, offering flexibility in studio setups.

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