Gainlab Audio Empress – What comes to mind when you encounter the term “passive equaliser“? Initially, you might envision the ethereal high-frequency elements, the deep and resonant lows, and the versatile cuts and boosts that seamlessly complement one another. These types of equalisers have a history dating back to the early 1950s, with the renowned Pultec EQP-1 from Pulse Techniques being the pioneer that introduced passive filter circuits alongside high-quality line amplifiers.
Although the EQP-1 had limitations in precise frequency isolation, it possessed the power to fundamentally transform any sound. However, many contemporary equalisers remain structurally and functionally rooted in the original EQP-1 design, which can prove constraining in modern music production environments.
Our endeavor in the laboratory for the Gainlab Audio Empress was to elevate this classic concept. First, we introduced an additional mid-frequency filter nestled between the low and high-frequency filters, enhancing the unit’s adaptability to today’s music landscape. We retained the ability for simultaneous cut and boost operations in the low and high bands, preserving the array of techniques one would expect from an equaliser.
Moreover, the shift function can be employed on these bands, allowing the mid-frequency of the concurrent cut and boost to be dynamically adjusted. After rigorous testing on the bench and real-world applications, the unit’s versatility exceeded all expectations. It showcased its prowess across tasks ranging from recording to masterful tonal enhancements, asserting itself in any equalisation scenario. Indeed, it commands the full frequency spectrum and consistently delivers outstanding results even in the most demanding circumstances, prompting us to christen it the Empress.
Leverage your Gainlab Audio gear alongside the Session Recall software! We include a complimentary device definition code for each of our product offerings. Session Recall stands as an innovative tool designed to preserve the settings of analogue devices lacking built-in memory.
This application facilitates the storage of comprehensive configurations for individual devices or multiple units, which can then be swiftly retrieved whenever needed. Regardless of whether you’re a musician, composer, or audio engineer, Session Recall seamlessly integrates into your workflow, effectively conserving your valuable time.
