The Empirical Labs EL7 Fatso is a modern digitally controlled
analog device that offers many of the "musical non-linearities"
exhibited by the older tube, class A discrete, and magnetic tape
mediums. This two channel audio processor will musically integrate
frequencies and transients and increase the apparent volume without
actual increase in peak levels. In addition, two channels of famous
Empirical Labs compression are provided. There are several compressor
"types" with fixed attacks and releases (if you want a fully
controllable compressor, you will need the Empirical Labs Distressor!).
Users can enhance & soften the sound of mediums such as modular
digital multitracks (MDM's), HD recorders, DAT recorders, Ram Recorders
etc. Mixdown engineers will have an option not to use bulky, expensive,
(and often flaky) analog tape recorders to get the warmth and sweet high
end they've come to rely on for so many decades. Owners of Adats,
MDM's, RAM and modern hard disk recorders can finally put a stop to
complaints about the "coldness" and "brittle edge" of their mixes and
instruments with the "rounded" and "musically non linear elements" of
vintage analog. Finally, audiophiles can bring back the warmth and
cuddly sound of LP's and tapes to their CD players, and other digital
reproduction mediums.
Fatso's Four Types of Processing (Available on both channels)
Harmonic Generation and Soft Clipper (Distortion generation)
High Frequency Saturation - WARMTH!
Transformer & Tape Head Emulation
Classic Knee Compression - Empirical Labs Style!
Specifications
Freq. Response
is 2 Hz to 60 kHz in clean audio mode (+0, -3 dB).
Dynamic Range
110 dB from maximum output (20%THDsoft clipping) to minimum output. Greater than 100 dB signal to noise.
Distortion Ranges between .06% and 20% depending on mode and settings.
DC coupled Input and Outputs
High quality audio caps used internally. Compressor Time Constants -
Attack range 1mS - 200mS. Release range .05 sec to 3.5 seconds. Attack
and Releases are fixed by the compression type selected
