Description
The Distressor is a modern classic, a best-seller which has garnered a huge reputation in a very short time. Designed by Dave Derr, the Distressor is a single-channel VCA compressor which takes the best ideas from traditional compressors and merges them with modern technology. It uses microprocessor control to achieve a huge range of compression effects. It is one of the most versatile dynamics units on the market
The EL8-X replaces the original EL8 and adds Image Link, for improved stereo or multichannel linking, and the 20:1 ratio Brit Mode. The EL8-X is the model shipping currently
Initial setup is easy: the Distressor has Input & Output controls – just like an 1176 – and Attack & Release controls to set the shape of the compression envelope. The Ratio button cycles through compression ratios. Even at 1:1 it’s possible to use the harmonic generation & signal warming features by cycling through the Distortion settings and juggling Input & Output levels. Ratios run all the way to Nuke and there’s an additional Brit Mode which mimics an 1176 on “All Buttons In” mode. The sidechain “Detector” has a useful switchable filter
The basics are straightforward but it takes a little time to get used to the range of effects on offer. There’s plenty of interaction between controls, drive level & the type of program material so getting the best out of the Distressor will take some experience. The range of harmonic enhancement available is huge and some experimentation is needed to find the sweet spot. Once you find it you’ll realise the Distressor is doing things you can’t do with any other compressor. The only drawback I can think of is that once you have a Distressor you will inevitably start thinking of buying two more
“The most impressive and versatile compressor I have ever used” – Michael Brauer
“A really good sounding vocal compressor. Guitars, Drums. Everything. You can’t have too many Distressors.” – Tchad Blake, Tape Op Magazine
“Every once in a while a product comes along with “classic” written all over it. And in a certain sense of the word, this product actually is a classic already” – Barry Cleveland, MIX Magazine
The Distressor sits at #6 in my revised Top Ten Compressor list:
1. UREI 1176
2. UREI LA-2A
3. dbx 160XT
4. SSL 4000E Bus Compressor
5. Empirical Labs Fatso EL7X
6. Empirical Labs Distressor EL8X
7. Valley People Dynamite
8. Gain Brain
9. dbx 163X
10. FMR Really Nice Compressor
Input is balanced on XLR & jack and output is balanced on XLR & unbalanced on jack. Multiple Distressors can be linked via a back-panel jack sockets and a link switch on the front panel. EL8-X models have an updated link setup which prevents stereo image shift when linked
Power input is via a standard IEC socket. AC input is 110 / 220 Volts switchable internally. This Distressor is set to 220. UK or Euro Schuko power cable supplied on request. Photos show the Distressor for sale
