EMPIRICAL LABS / EL8X-S STEREO PAIR Compressor

This stereo pair package includes the EL8X DISTRESSOR. It's a derivative of the EL8 DISTRESSOR, with an added British Mode switch that simulates the full-press mode of the UREI 1176, and Image Link functionality.

[直輸入品][Direct Import]

■ Control analog harmonics to recreate the sounds of various vintage compressors.
The DISTRESSOR allows you to freely manipulate analog textures. Digitally controlled, authentic analog circuits are preset, allowing you to create a wide variety of sound textures through various combinations. Second- and third-order harmonics from transformers, vacuum tubes, tape compressors, etc. can be added in amounts ranging from as little as 0.025% to 20% (visually quantized using the Distortion Indicator). The built-in sidechain EQ controls HPF and emphasis, and eight unique ratio curves allow you to create a total of 384 tonal patterns. Furthermore, the four knobs for ATACK, RELEASE, and IN&OUT gain allow you to create a truly infinite range of sounds, from clean tones to extreme classic sounds.

*The EL-8 is the standard version without options, while the EL-8X is a derivative model that comes standard with two options: Image Link and British Mode.

■Classic Knee Sound
The DISTRESSOR is an automatic gain control device, also known as a compressor/limiter, but it's packed with incredible features that transcend that category. The Distressor not only provides clean dynamics control, but can also add various ""colorations"" to the sound, including three types of analog harmonic distortion. In modern digital recording, adding analog-like harmonic content to achieve warmth is an essential element. From the subharmonics of transformers like NEVE, to the saturation and harmonic content of vacuum tubes, to the unique sonic comfort of analog tape, engineers strive to create a musical sound using every means possible.

■Classic Emulation
Realistic reproductions of vintage sounds like the LA2/3/4, 1176, dBX160, Fairchild (IGFET or 670), MEEK, DeMaria, and SSL are all possible. Depending on the settings, it realistically recreates expensive vintage equipment, including optocouplers (optical), FETs, triode or pentode vacuum tubes, and MU types. Only the Distressor, which digitally controls a variety of analog circuit combinations, can deliver authentic analog vintage sound.

■Vintage Equipment That Can Simulate Sounds
LA2, LA3, LA4: Simulates opto-control models
LN1176: Simulates the fast attack of the 1176
DBX160: Slow attack, fast release
Fairchild IGFET: Vintage hard peak limiting
Fairchild 670: Adds a smooth curve and plenty of second harmonics

■Options
The EL8X-S comes standard with two excellent options.
The British Mode switch simulates the aggressive, classic sound of the Urei 1176LN with all four RATIO buttons fully depressed. The EL-8X further expands this classic ""four-button mode"" by adapting it to different RATIO curves and setting a significantly longer attack time than the original 1176, unlocking uncharted 1176 sounds. British Mode is ideal for smooth peak compression during mastering. At the other extreme, longer attack times can be used to create an aggressive, saturated, distorted sound. This extreme brickwall limiting is ideal for heavy '70s rock drum sounds.

Image Link allows you to select from three modes: Image Link and Phase & Image, in addition to the standard phase-detecting stereo link (which does not achieve mastering-quality left/right phase). The two units are connected with a TRS cable, and the timing circuits of the two are locked together for ultimate precision, enabling stereo compression with unprecedented precision. This is an essential feature when using this unit as the final stage of a two-way mix.

■Other Features
- Carefully selected, hand-selected components
- Large knobs with fine markings allow for precise recording of settings during mastering, etc.
- True bypass circuitry
- Direct coupling output
- Stereo link