PUMP

500 SERIES CLASSIC KNEE COMPRESSOR

The PUMPTM is a fully analog single-channel rackmount compressor that provides the exceptional performance, versatility, and quality that Empirical Labs is renowned for. It delivers the essential sound and character of the legendary Distressor® compressor in a streamlined format, while also incorporating select features from the popular Arousor® compressor plugin and Mike-e® microphone preamplifier. Highlights include:

  • 8 Compression Ratios from 2:1 to 20:1, each with an individually optimized curve
  • Digitally stepped Attack and Release controls for precise recall and manually syncing two PUMPs (plus an Opto auto-release setting)
  • Attack Modification (AtMod) enables additional transients to pass for increased impact
  • 110Hz Detector High-Pass Filter stops low-frequencies from triggering compression
  • Saturation circuit adds coloration for warmth and character
  • Comprehensive gain-reduction monitoring via a large LED bar-graph meter
  • BAD LED indicator lights when signal is within 1dB of hard clipping
  • Ultra-quiet operation

Sophisticated enough to satisfy the most demanding audio professional, yet straightforward enough for even novice users, the PUMP brings Empirical Labs magic to any studio at an affordable price. Available in horizontal and vertical versions.

Is the PUMP a Distressor?

Of course not. While it offers a very similar sound and vibe, the PUMP’s smaller size obviously allows for fewer controls and features, and affordability was also a primary goal. That said, the PUMP has several features that the Distressor doesn’t have, such as AtMod and Saturation, and it is up to 10dB quieter overall.

Attack Modification

The PUMP boasts the unique Attack Modification or AtMod control originally introduced in the Arousor plugin and unavailable on any other hardware compressor. AtMod enables users to shape transient response beyond simply adjusting the Attack control, allowing more transients to pass while maintaining the desired level of compression. Perfect for adding a bit more snap to snares, thump to basses, or overall punch to nearly any sound.

Saturation

Based on the multi-stage soft-clipping circuit found in the Mike-e CompSat section. A triode-type saturation affects the signal at lower levels, while a second unique clipping circuit starts to more severely flatten out the peaks as the level increases—imparting renowned Empirical Labs warmth and character.

Specifications

  • Compression Ratios – 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, 6:1, 8:1, 10:1, 12:1, 20:1
  • Attack Time – 200µs-40ms
  • Release Time – 50ms-500ms, plus program dependent Opto release mode
  • Frequency Response – 5Hz-130kHz (no Saturation)
  • Dynamic Range – 130.5dB max output (0.5% THD germanium diode soft clipping)
  • Noise Floor – -101dBu typical with Output control set to 0
  • Distortion –0.009%-15% @ 1kHz, mode and configuration dependent
  • Impedance – 120kΩ Instrument In mode/20kΩ Line In mode. Output less than 75Ω
  • Detector HP Filter – Fixed @ 110Hz