Empress Effects Compressor MKII - Blue Sparkle

When we released our original Compressor back in 2011, it quickly became a favourite among guitar and bass players alike who were searching for something more than the typical oversimplified controls found on most compressor pedals. Now, based on our users’ valuable feedback, we’ve taken everything great about our original Compressor and made it even better. 

On top of the full range of features and controls normally only seen in high end studio equipment, such as input and gain reduction metering, independent attack and release controls, a mix knob for parallel compression, and an external sidechain insert, we’ve now added a ‘tilt’ tone eq control, and a selectable sidechain high pass filter built into the Compressor’s detection circuit.

• Voiced for bass with 10Hz-20kHz frequency response
• All analog signal path with true bypass switching
• Multi-segment metering for input and gain reduction
• Selectable 2:1, 4:1, and 10:1 ratios
• Sidechain input with variable high-pass filter
• Colour circuit adds harmonic distortion
• Mix knob for parallel compression
  

Transparent Analog Signal Path

Experience pure analog compression without any digital interference. The Compressor MKII features FET compression that preserves your instrument’s original tone while adding dynamic control. Choose from 2:1, 4:1, and 10:1 compression ratios for a wide range of dynamic control options. Fine-tune the compression characteristics with independent attack and release controls for precise adjustments.

Delightfully Designed

The new enclosure is approximately half the size of the original compressor, saving space on your pedalboard, and is available in undeniable blue or silver sparkle finishes.

Advanced Metering and Parallel Compression

Monitor both gain reduction and input levels with separate meters for clear, accurate feedback. Blend uncompressed and compressed signals using the Mix control for New York-style parallel compression.

Tone and Sidechain Features

The tone knob is a "tilt" style EQ centered at 500Hz to nail that perfect tone. The internal sidechain is controlled by a 3-position switch: 120Hz, 240Hz, and off. The sidechain switch (120Hz, 240Hz, and off) helps to maintain clarity by preventing unwanted low-frequency pumping. For even greater control and flexibility, utilize the 3.5mm TRS jack send and return for external sidechain compression.

Input Impedance: 1M

Output Impedance: 2.2k

Frequency Response (-3dB): 20Hz - 20kHz

Distortion: less than 0.1%

Noise: 101dB

Power Input Voltage: 9V DC (Negative tip)

Input Power: 2.1mm barrel (Centre Negative)

Power Consumption: ~100mA

Enclosure Material: Die Cast Aluminum

Input connector: 1/4" Jack

Output connector: 1/4" Jack

Height (including controls): 2.5"

Length: 4.8"

Width: 2.6"

Weight: 1lbs