The use of analog knee compressors in the music world is not new. They have been around for quite a long time and have become an integral component of many studios. These tools compress the sound signals using analog circuits.
Statistics suggest that they hold the same popularity as they used to back in the day, even after the advent of digital compressors.
Having said that, it is important to purchase the right analog compressor. It may be often overlooked, but it is vital to your instrument’s tonal quality. A good analog compressor can enhance your playability, just as a guitar amp.
There are different analog compressors for different environments. From studios to live performances, they have many applications.
If you are a newbie and looking to buy an analog knee compressor, you might be left overwhelmed by the number of options available.
Among all the models, the Distressor by Empirical Labs and the 1176 analog compressor by Universal Audio enjoy a special place. They stand out for their exceptional features and impressive tonal qualities.
So, which one sounds better among the two? Which one offers more features and value for money?
A Brief Distressor vs 1176 Comparison
Below is a comparison between the Empirical Labs Distressor and Universal Audio 1176 analog knee compressors.
| Features | Distressor | 1176 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 11.95 lbs | 11 lbs |
| Ratio options | 8 | 4 |
| Price | $1500 | $1800 |
| Tone | Warm | Bright |
Distressor
The Distressor analog knee compressor is manufactured by Empirical Labs. As sound engineers and musicians started purchasing analog knee compressors, more and more companies entered the arena.
However, not every company enjoys a good market reputation. When it comes to analog compressors, Empirical Labs is in a league of its own.
The company was established in 1988 and has a history of manufacturing high-quality analog compressors.
The Distressor analog knee compressor is special for many reasons. It is a combination of two words, i.e., distortion and compressor. It is a highly versatile compressor that enhances your performance by adding some analog color.
Thanks to its exceptional versatility, it is often called the “Swiss army knife compressor.”
Construction
The layout of the Empirical Labs Distressor analog knee compressor consists of four knobs, two switches, and four buttons. The knobs allow you to adjust input, attack, release, and output.
With so many knobs and buttons, this unit gives you control over all the features. And yes, you also get LED lights with buttons for your convenience.
Furthermore, you get the luxury of switching through different ratios. You get eight ratio options with this compressor, ranging from 1:1 all the way up to 10:1. The switching between these ratios is controlled by a single button.
No doubt, the knobs, buttons, and switches are conveniently placed on the Empirical Labs Distressor analog knee compressor.
However, one thing that may offend you is that the text size is small, and it could be hard to read it, especially if you are in low-light conditions.
Performance
The Empirical Labs Distressor analog knee compressor is a highly advanced compressor with tons of cool features.
It combines some of the best features of other models by Empirical Labs in one portable unit. It delivers a warm vintage tone with its custom-designed circuit.
It offers three audio modes to deliver classic sounds by providing user-programmable harmonic distortion. So, apart from the basic distortion mode, you get two other modes as well, making it a perfect choice for musicians.
The distortion 2 feature adds a second-harmonic distortion, whereas the distortion 3 mode adds a third-harmonic tape-like distortion to your audio signals.
Many musicians like the British mode in the Empirical Labs Distressor analog knee compressor. It adds an aggressive touch to the compression for the best playing experience.
The stereo image link mode has also impressed many musicians. And yes, you can connect it with other units via cable.
With such excellent features, it would be safe to say that this compressor was way ahead of time at the time of its release.
With such an extensive range of compression options, it is no wonder that the Empirical Labs Distressor analog knee compressor is so popular among musicians.
All in all, the Empirical Labs Distressor analog knee compressor is an incredible digitally-controlled analog compressor that emulates many old classic units while offering modern sounds as well.
It is packed in portable housing and weighs around 12 lbs. So, carrying it around won’t be a problem either.
1176
The 1176 compressor is another great analog compressor manufactured by Universal Audio. Universal Audio is among the prominent names in the industry and has been in this business for decades.
It specializes in manufacturing audio solutions, such as audio interfaces, analog knee compressors, etc. This model was released in 1967 and still enjoys a special place in the analog compressors market.
The Universal Audio 1176 analog feedback compressor remains unchanged for the most part. It still has the same vintage design and sounds pretty much the same as well.
It comes with input and output transformers and imparts a harmonic overtone to your audio signals.
Construction
The layout of the 1176 analog feedback compressor is quite identical to the Distressor compressor. It features four knobs, input, output, release, and attack. The input knob is the threshold control, while the output knob gives you gain makeup.
And yes, this compressor comes with four compression ratios, which are fewer than the Distressor but are adequate for good performance. Furthermore, you also get the British mode in this compressor.
Performance
The 1176 analog feedback compressor does exceptionally well what it is supposed to do. Whether you like gentle warm sounds or overdrive, this compressor can do it all.
The 1176 analog feedback compressor is versatile and can be used with many instruments. However, like any other compressor, recording guitar signals can be tricky as guitars have strong attacks and die away quickly.
This gives them a wide dynamic range, making them hard to record using a compressor. So, it would be best to compress the guitar signals lightly while letting the attack come through.
This will reduce the guitar’s dynamic range, making it far easier to record. It is a good idea to start with a slow attack time.
The lower values are slower, and higher values are faster on the 1176 analog feedback compressor. Consider adjusting them as per your liking.
The 1176 analog feedback compressor has a great attack time for the best experience. When combined with its clear and bright sound, this compressor is no less than a masterpiece.
When pushed hard, it may give you a hint of bite as well. If you are looking for an analog compressor to improve your playability, it has everything you need in a compressor.
Without an iota of a doubt, the 1176 analog feedback compressor is feature-packed and easy to use. However, these features come at a price.
It is far pricier than its Empirical Labs counterpart, which could be a deal-breaker if you are not willing to spend much.
Final Verdict
The Universal Audio 1176 analog feedback compressor and the Empirical Labs Distressor are undoubtedly the two most loved compressors of all time. They both sound well and offer lots of features to enhance your playing experience.
However, the Distressor analog compressor is the clear winner, thanks to its more ratio options and reasonable price. Moreover, it is super versatile and got worldwide recognition for its versatility.