Empirical Labs EL9 Mike-e
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
Empirical Labs
EL9 Mike-e
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
The EL9 Mike-e is a game-changer for engineers and producers needing pristine, powerful mic preamps with subtle dynamic control. It's ideal for tracking vocals, acoustic instruments, and anything needing a transparent yet impactful boost – think jazz, classical, or even modern pop where clean gain is paramount. The KompSat feature is a real secret weapon.
Product Description
- Empirical Labs EL9 Mike-e
- Microphone Preamp
- Digitally controlled
- With compressor
- Extremely low inherent noise
- Instrument input with automatic switching
- 48 V phantom power
- Transition from processed material to unprocessed material (dry / wet)
- Frequency range from 3 Hz to 200 kHz (without KompSat) 3 Hz to 150 kHz (with KompSat)
- Maximum output +22 dBu
- Input impedance 600 Ohm
- Output impedance less than 38 Ohm
- Design: 19" / 1 U
PROS
- • Exceptional transient response captures subtle nuances beautifully
- • Discrete Class A circuitry delivers a remarkably clean, powerful signal
- • KompSat processing subtly tames unruly dynamics without sounding processed
- • Robust build quality; feels like it'll survive a studio move easily
CONS
- • The digital control interface can feel less intuitive than analog counterparts
- • Single-channel design limits its immediate application in multi-mic scenarios
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for smaller studios
Product Video
Key Features
Channels
1
Preamp Type
Discrete Class A
Gain Range
+60 dB
Phantom Power
48 V
Connections
XLR, TRS
Weight
6.5 lbs
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Frequently Asked Questions
KompSat offers a more transparent and musical dynamic control, subtly shaping the signal rather than aggressively compressing it.
While convenient, the digital interface might not appeal to purists, but the sonic performance largely compensates for this.
