Getting that perfect sound in your recordings can feel like chasing a ghost. You tweak knobs, layer effects, and still, something’s missing. If you’re searching for that elusive warmth, punch, and character, Empirical Labs might just be your secret weapon. Known for their high-quality audio processors and plugins, Empirical Labs bridges the gap between classic analog richness and modern digital precision. This article explores the world of Empirical Labs, from their iconic Distressor to the versatile Arousor plugin, and how these tools can elevate your audio productions to the next level. We’ll also look at what makes Empirical Labs stand out from the competition and how you can integrate their gear into your workflow, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your audio journey.
Key Points to Remember
- Empirical Labs gear delivers a signature sound: Their processors, both hardware and software, are known for a distinct character often described as “analog warmth,” making them popular for adding richness and depth to audio.
- Their tools offer practical versatility: From the Distressor’s aggressive compression to the Fatso’s tape saturation, Empirical Labs provides a range of processing options suitable for various audio applications, including recording, mixing, and mastering.
- They provide options for all budgets: You can purchase individual plugins or invest in the complete collection for a cost-effective way to access the full suite of Empirical Labs tools. This allows you to choose the best approach based on your needs and resources.
What are Empirical Labs Products?
Empirical Labs makes professional audio signal processing equipment and software used in recording studios, live sound, broadcast, and other audio production settings. They’re known for their distinctive sound and versatile tools, popular with both professional engineers and home recordists.
Hardware
Empirical Labs’ hardware processors are prized for their unique sonic character and build quality. The company’s Distressor is a highly regarded compressor known for its flexible controls and ability to add warmth and punch. Other popular hardware includes the Fatso, an analog tape simulator, and the Lil FrEQ, a versatile equalizer. These tools are designed to be powerful and intuitive, allowing users to shape their sound precisely.
Software
Empirical Labs also offers software plugins, bringing the sound of their hardware to digital audio workstations (DAWs). For example, the Arousor plugin emulates the compression and saturation of the Distressor, adding that classic sound to your mixes in the box. These plugins offer a wide range of control and a distinctive sonic signature, designed to be just as powerful and flexible as their hardware counterparts.
Tech
Empirical Labs focuses on creating high-quality audio tools that combine classic analog warmth with modern digital precision. The company uses carefully selected components and innovative circuit designs to achieve its signature sound. Empirical Labs is known for its commitment to quality and dedication to providing audio professionals with the tools they need for exceptional work.
Empirical Labs’ Top Audio Tools
Arousor: Compression & Saturation
Producer Greg Wells calls the Arousor a “compressor plugin without equal,” noting its instantly musical sound. Created by the same team behind the renowned Distressor hardware, the Arousor plugin stands out with its classic knee compression. It uses proprietary high-resolution detector modeling and a broadband saturator, giving you granular control over peaks. This lets you add a touch of warmth or crank up the grit, depending on your needs. Check out the Arousor plugin for more details.
BIG FrEQ: Parametric EQ
The BIG FrEQ is an award-nominated parametric EQ plugin. Recently updated to version 1.3, this EQ offers precise control over your frequencies, making it a valuable tool for both mixing and mastering. Whether you’re shaping individual tracks or the entire mix, the BIG FrEQ provides the flexibility and accuracy you need.
Fatso: Analog Tape Simulation
Empirical Labs’ Fatso plugin captures the warmth and character of analog tape. It’s a popular choice for adding that sought-after analog saturation to digital recordings. The Fatso is known for injecting a rich, vintage vibe into your audio, even if the webpage itself keeps some of its secrets close to the vest.
Distressor: Dynamic Range Control
The Distressor is a highly influential piece of hardware. This dynamic range controller is a mainstay in professional studios, prized for its versatility. It offers ten ratios, including the “RIVET” setting—Empirical Labs’ version of the brick wall limiter. The Arousor manual actually provides further insight into the Distressor and its features, highlighting the connection between these two powerful tools.
How Empirical Labs Excels
Analog Warmth Meets Digital Precision
Empirical Labs bridges analog warmth and digital precision with its flagship product, the Arousor compressor plugin. Producer Greg Wells praises the Arousor, stating, “The Arousor is a compressor plugin without equal! Instantly exciting and instantly musical. There’s no turning back!” This plugin is known for its classic knee compression, a key feature of the original Distressor, a staple in professional audio for over two decades. The Arousor carries this legacy into the digital realm, offering that sought-after analog character in plugin format.
Easy-to-Use Interfaces
Empirical Labs plugins are user-friendly, appealing to both new and experienced audio engineers. The Arousor, for example, features high-resolution detector modeling and a broadband saturator, giving users detailed control over audio peaks. This intuitive design contributes to its widespread popularity. You can find more information about the Arousor’s features and functionality on Sweetwater’s product page.
Versatile Audio Applications
Empirical Labs products cater to a wide range of audio applications, suitable for recording studios, live sound, and broadcast. Their commitment to quality shows in their complete collection, which includes tools like the Mike-E compressor/saturator and the Lil FrEQ EQ and de-esser—described as “delightfully brash” and “freakishly powerful.” This versatility makes their products adaptable to the diverse needs of audio professionals. Whether you’re tracking vocals, mixing a rock band, or mastering for broadcast, Empirical Labs offers tools to help you achieve your sonic vision.
Benefits of Using Empirical Labs
When you’re choosing audio equipment, you want tools that sound great and make your life easier. Empirical Labs delivers on both fronts. Here’s why producers and engineers reach for their gear:
Enhance Your Sound
Empirical Labs products quickly add richness and musicality to audio tracks. For example, their Arousor plugin is known for its distinctive compression, giving tracks a polished, engaging sound. It’s a popular choice for adding warmth and presence without harshness.
Improve Workflow
The Empirical Labs Complete Collection from Softube bundles all their plugins into one package. This gives you quick access to a wide range of processing tools, from compression and EQ to saturation and distortion, all within a unified interface. This speeds up your workflow, letting you focus on creative work.
Explore Unique Processing
Empirical Labs gear offers distinctive processing options. The Arousor, heavily influenced by the hardware Distressor, uses Classic Empirical Labs SoftKnee Compression, adding a unique character to your sound. This lets you experiment with different textures and tones.
Empirical Labs vs. Competitors
Sound Quality & Character
Empirical Labs is known for its hardware’s distinct, often described as “analog” sound. This characteristic warmth and color are highly sought after by audio professionals. Softube’s partnership with Empirical Labs for plugin development ensures the software accurately captures the nuances of the original hardware. This collaboration results in plugins that deliver the sought-after Empirical Labs sound digitally. The Arousor, for example, is praised for its musicality and ability to add excitement to audio tracks.
Features & Functionality
Empirical Labs gear offers a range of practical features. The Arousor plugin provides ten compression ratios, including the unique “RIVET” setting, mirroring the hardware’s aggressive compression style. This versatility allows for precise dynamic control. The Empirical Labs Complete Collection includes the Mike-E compressor/saturator, Lil FrEQ EQ and de-esser, and the Trak Pak channel strip. These plugins are described as “delightfully brash” and “freakishly powerful,” suggesting a focus on impactful sound shaping. The Arousor manual provides further details on its functionality.
Price & Performance
While Empirical Labs products are an investment, the complete collection offers a cost-effective way to access the entire plugin suite. Buying the bundle is cheaper than purchasing each plugin individually. This makes it a smart choice for those wanting to explore the full range of Empirical Labs processing. The company also operates in the health supplement market, specializing in liposomal supplements, which suggests a company-wide focus on quality and effectiveness.
Pricing & Purchasing
Product Costs
Empirical Labs hardware, known for its build quality and distinct sound, typically sits at a higher price point than some other audio processors. For current pricing on individual hardware units like the Distressor or Arousor, check with authorized Empirical Labs dealers. Software prices vary depending on the individual plugin or bundle. You can find current prices for the software on the Softube website, which handles sales and distribution for Empirical Labs software.
Bundle Deals
Softube offers the Empirical Labs Complete Collection, bundling all their plugin versions of Empirical Labs hardware. This collection is often a cost-effective way to acquire the entire suite compared to buying each plugin individually, especially if you plan to use multiple Empirical Labs processors.
Current Promotions
Keep an eye on the Softube website and social media channels for sales events and promotions. They occasionally offer discounts on individual plugins or the complete collection. Also, check if there are any special offers bundled with other Softube products.
Customer Reviews & Reputation
Pro Feedback
Industry pros, including renowned mix engineer Tom Lord-Alge, have praised Empirical Labs products, especially the Arousor VST plugin. Lord-Alge specifically highlights its flexible detector sidechain EQ, valuable for easily recreating vintage sounds.
User Experiences
Customers generally give Empirical Labs products positive feedback. Many users of the Liposomal Glutathione supplement report improved energy and skin health, with some noting overall health improvements after regular use. Positive experiences extend to other products like the Empirical Labs Distressor, praised for its versatility and sound.
Satisfaction Ratings
Empirical Labs products average a 4.6-star rating across 593 reviews. The Vascuzyme supplement holds a 4.8-star rating, with 84% of users giving it 5 stars. The Pump 500 Series Compressor enjoys a perfect 5.0-star rating, reflecting strong customer satisfaction.
Integrate Empirical Labs into Your Setup
Studio Recording
Empirical Labs gear is a natural fit for professional recording studios. Their hardware processors, like the Distressor, are prized for their unique character and can be used on individual tracks or busses. For example, the Arousor adds warmth and presence to vocals and instruments, while the Distressor can tame dynamic peaks or add punch to drums. If you’re working in a digital audio workstation (DAW), the Empirical Labs plugins offer the same analog sound in a convenient software format, letting you easily recall settings and experiment with different processing chains.
Live Sound
In live sound situations, Empirical Labs processors are a valuable tool. Their robust hardware can handle the demands of touring and live performances. The Distressor is a popular choice for controlling the dynamics of vocals, bass, and other instruments, helping them cut through the mix. The BIG FrEQ allows for quick and effective equalization adjustments, shaping the overall sound of the performance.
Post-Production & Mixing
Whether you’re working on music, film, or other audio projects, Empirical Labs plugins offer a distinct sonic edge. The Fatso plugin, for instance, emulates the warm saturation of analog tape, adding depth and richness to your mixes. The Arousor can revitalize dull tracks, and the Distressor handles everything from subtle compression to aggressive limiting. Purchasing the complete plugin collection is a cost-effective way to access all of Empirical Labs’ processing power.
Support & Resources
Software & Compatibility
Empirical Labs offers plugins compatible with popular Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, and Ableton Live, on both Windows and macOS. Their flagship Arousor plugin is well-regarded for its musicality and user-friendliness. Producer Greg Wells describes the Arousor as “a compressor plugin without equal! Instantly exciting and instantly musical.” This speaks volumes about the plugin’s effectiveness and Empirical Labs’ commitment to quality.
Customer Support
Empirical Labs provides solid customer support, including a company blog with helpful information and product updates. They’re committed to giving users the resources they need to get the most from their plugins. Customer reviews on sites like Sweetwater also reflect this commitment, with users praising products like the Empirical Labs Pump 500 Series Compressor.
Online Learning
Empirical Labs encourages users to explore their plugins through live demos and online resources. The Empirical Labs Complete Collection, available through Softube, offers a convenient way to try and purchase all their plugins. This makes it simple to learn these tools and incorporate them into your workflow.
Audio Processing Alternatives
If you’re exploring options similar to Empirical Labs gear, several other respected brands offer comparable tools for audio processing. Here are a few worth checking out:
Universal Audio
Universal Audio is known for its high-quality audio interfaces and plugins that emulate classic analog gear. This gives users access to a rich, vintage sound, highly sought after in professional studios and by serious audio engineers. If that classic sound is what you’re after, Universal Audio is a solid choice. They offer a wide range of products, from hardware to software, allowing for flexibility in your setup. Learn more about their offerings to see if they meet your needs.
Waves Audio
Waves offers a huge selection of audio plugins covering every aspect of audio production, from mixing and mastering to sound design. Known for their versatility, Waves plugins are a standard in many professional studios. If you need a wide range of processing options, Waves is worth considering. Explore their extensive catalog to find the tools that fit your workflow.
Slate Digital
Slate Digital is recognized for its innovative plugins that meticulously replicate the sound of analog hardware. Their use of advanced modeling technology makes them popular with audio professionals who demand high-quality sound processing. If precise analog emulation is important to you, Slate Digital might be a good fit. Check out their website for more information on their plugins and bundles.
FabFilter
FabFilter is loved for its intuitive user interfaces combined with powerful audio processing capabilities. Their plugins are designed to be both easy to use and deliver professional-grade sound, making them a favorite among mixing and mastering engineers. If a smooth workflow and excellent sound are priorities, check out FabFilter. Their website offers detailed information and demos of their products.
Softube
Softube is interesting because they collaborate with other audio brands, including Empirical Labs, to create plugins that capture authentic analog sound. This partnership has resulted in products highly regarded for their quality and performance. If you want to explore plugins specifically designed in conjunction with Empirical Labs, Softube is a must-see. You can find more details about their collaborations and individual products on their website.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Empirical Labs Distressor, and why is it so popular?
The Distressor is a versatile hardware compressor favored for its flexible controls and ability to add warmth and punch to audio. Its unique character and broad range of settings, from subtle compression to aggressive limiting, make it a studio staple. It’s often used on vocals, drums, and other instruments to enhance their presence and impact.
What’s special about Empirical Labs plugins?
Empirical Labs plugins aim to recreate the sought-after sound of their hardware in a digital format. They’re known for their warm, analog-inspired character and intuitive interfaces. This combination of classic sound and ease of use makes them popular with both seasoned professionals and those newer to mixing.
Are Empirical Labs products only for professional studios?
While popular in professional settings, Empirical Labs tools are also valuable for home recordists and musicians. Their plugins are compatible with standard digital audio workstations (DAWs), making them accessible to anyone working with audio. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, these tools can add a professional touch to your projects.
Where can I buy Empirical Labs products?
You can purchase Empirical Labs hardware through authorized dealers. Software plugins and the complete collection are available through Softube, their official software partner. Check both the Empirical Labs and Softube websites for details on dealers and current pricing.
What if I need help with my Empirical Labs products?
Empirical Labs provides customer support through their website and blog. Softube also offers support for the plugin versions. You can find helpful information, FAQs, and contact details on both websites. Additionally, many online communities and forums discuss Empirical Labs products, offering a place to share tips and ask questions.
