Empress EffectsECM-519 500-Series Compressor

Empress Effects ECM-519

Beloved for their pedals, Empress Effects also happens to be adept at designing top-notch studio gear, like the ECM-519 500-series compressor. This FET compressor is remarkably versatile, and can apply some gentle cushioning or absolutely squish whatever audio signal you're passing through it. With knobs for controlling Input and Output levels as well as Attack, Release, and dry/wet Mix, the ECM-519 already sports plenty of flexibility. But through its various switches, you'll unlock even more options to shape your mix.

ECM-519 offers three compression ratios: gentle 3:1, aggressive 6:1, and limiter-like 12:1—these are the key to defining the general character of compression that you need. Reduce unruly bass with optional sidechain high-pass filters, situated at 120Hz or 220Hz as needed. If you're looking for a more hands-off approach while tracking, try one of the two auto modes for the Attack and Release settings. There's also an output transformer section, which can be engaged for subtle or obvious amounts of saturation and harmonic coloration. And finally, if you're rocking two ECM-519s and need them to work together for stereo applications, use the supplied cable to join both units together and flip the Link switch to share control settings. Grab a lovely studio-grade compressor from one of the best effects pedal companies in the business with the ECM-519.

ECM-519 Features

• 500-series FET feedback compressor
• Abundant controls for dialing in numerous flavors of compression
• Fully analog signal path
• Optional output transformer with load down option to impart extra saturation
• Selectable ratios: 3:1. 6:1, 12:1
• Manual Attack and Release controls with two optional auto modes
• Mix knob blends between dry and wet signals for parallel compression applications
• Optional sidechain highpass filter at 120Hz or 220Hz
• Stereo link functionality
• Bypass switch for A/B comparisons