Fatso EL7x

The Empirical Labs Fatso EL7x is a versatile and powerful two-channel analog processor designed to bring the sought-after characteristics of magnetic tape, tube gear, and classic transformers to the modern digital studio. The name FATSO stands for Full Analog Tape Simulator and Optimizer, and the unit excels at this, providing the warmth, saturation, and natural compression that many engineers feel is missing from purely digital recordings. It goes beyond simple saturation by offering multiple tools to sweeten and control signals, including harmonic generation, soft clipping, high-frequency saturation (warmth), and several classic compressor settings. The Fatso is an indispensable tool for adding weight, glue, and a finished, professional sheen to individual tracks, stems, and full mixes.

The Fatso EL7x provides a comprehensive set of controls to shape your sound. Its core feature is the warmth processor, a high-frequency saturator that mimics the high-end softening effect of analog tape, perfect for taming harsh digital sources like cymbals, vocals, and synths. The Tranny (transformer) and harmonic generation circuits add low-order harmonics, creating the rich, full-bodied sound associated with vintage analog equipment. In addition to these tone-shaping tools, the Fatso includes a powerful dynamics section with four distinct compressor types: Buss, G.P. (General Purpose), Tracking, and the aggressive "Spank" setting. These one-knob compressors provide easy-to-use dynamic control tailored for different applications, from gently gluing a mix together to adding explosive punch to drums. With its ability to simultaneously compress, saturate, and warm up signals, the Fatso EL7x is a unique and essential tool for achieving a rich, cohesive, and professional analog sound.

Features

• Two-channel analog tape simulator and compressor.
• Warmth circuit for controlling high-frequency harshness.
• Harmonic generation and soft clipping to emulate tube and tape saturation.
• Switchable transformer circuit for adding classic analog coloration.
• Four distinct compressor settings: Buss, G.P., Tracking, and Spank.
• Ideal for tracking, mixing, and mastering applications.
• Adds "glue" and cohesion to stereo mixes and subgroups.
• Helps digital recordings sound less sterile and more "finished".