} Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X Full Analog Tape Simulator and Optimizer — Pro Audio Reserve
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Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X Full Analog Tape Simulator and Optimizer

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Description

Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X Overview

  Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X analog tape simulator optimizer

Four Meticulously Tweaked Compression Modes

The FATSO EL7X features four compression modes designed to emulate classic analog behavior. The BUSS setting delivers gentle transient saturation synonymous with tape and reminiscent of the SSL Quad Compressor. SPANK provides the subtle knee followed by hard limiting that many grew to love on SSL E Series consoles. The TRACK compressor offers the classic Empirical Labs Distressor sound in an easier-to-use format.

The star of the EL7X update is the ELEVEN setting, which nails the wonderfully unique texture of a vintage 1176LN run at 20:1 with its slowest attack (still quite fast) and quick release. This delivers the full force and unique impact of transients — think snare drum — with radically limited dynamic range throughout the rest of the signal, creating that iconic aggressive punch engineers have chased for decades.

 Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X harmonic generation soft clipping modes

Harmonic Richness With Four Processing Modes

The FATSO EL7X provides four different processing modes for adding analog tape vibe and warmth. Harmonic Generation and Soft Clipper modes use a Class A circuit to gently round off audio peaks, just like saturated tubes or tape. High Frequency Saturation employs a clever dynamic high-cut filter that reduces HF energy only when it piles up beyond a certain point, emulating tape driven hard.

Transformer and Tape Head Emulation simulates the effect of input and output transformers from vintage gear, sounding fantastic on just about anything. Seven different warmth settings help emulate different tape formulations and machine anomalies, allowing you to choose between characteristics of Scotch 250, Ampex 456, BASF 911, Zonal 999, and other classic tape stocks without committing to a single format.

 Empirical Labs EL7X TRANNY button transformer emulation

The TRANNY Button: Over-the-Top Harmonic Content

The FATSO features what many engineers call the greatest button ever installed on any unit: the TRANNY button. This delivers final over-the-top harmonic content with compelling low-frequency focus while adding breath and urgency to any sound it meets. The transformer emulation brings the analog anomalies associated with classic equipment from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.

Combined with the harmonic generation, soft clipping, and high-frequency saturation modes, the TRANNY button can cure lameness found in common analog-to-digital converter sets, giving your music the width and breadth that makes folks wax nostalgic for $300 reels of tape and 500-plus-pound tape machines — all in an adjustable and repeatable manner without stress over sticking with initial decisions.

Highlights

  • Full analog tape simulator and optimizer with compression and saturation
  • Four compression modes: BUSS, SPANK, TRACK, and ELEVEN (1176LN emulation)
  • Harmonic Generation and Soft Clipping with Class A circuit
  • High Frequency Saturation with dynamic high-cut filter
  • Transformer and Tape Head Emulation for vintage gear character
  • Seven warmth settings emulating different tape formulations
  • TRANNY button for over-the-top harmonic content and transformer color
  • Updated EL7X design with 20% lower current draw and reduced noise floor
  • Cooler operating temperature compared to original FATSO
  • Frequency response: 2 Hz – 60 kHz (+0, -3 dB) in clean mode
  • Dynamic range: 110 dB with >100 dB signal-to-noise
  • Variable distortion: 0.06% to 20% depending on mode and settings
  • DC-coupled inputs and outputs
  • XLR and 1/4" inputs with stereo linking for 5.1 operation

Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X Specifications

Specification Details
Frequency Response 2 Hz – 60 kHz in clean audio mode (+0, -3 dB)
Dynamic Range 110 dB (max output at 20% THD soft clipping to min output); >100 dB signal-to-noise
Total Harmonic Distortion 0.06% to 20% depending on mode and settings
I/O Coupling DC-coupled inputs and outputs
Compression Modes BUSS, SPANK, TRACK, ELEVEN (1176LN emulation)
Attack Range 1 ms – 60 ms (fixed by compression type selected)
Release Range 0.05 sec – 3.5 sec (fixed by compression type selected)
Processing Modes Harmonic Generation/Soft Clipping, High Frequency Saturation, Transformer/Tape Head Emulation
Warmth Settings Seven settings emulating different tape formulations
TRANNY Mode Transformer emulation with enhanced harmonic content
Inputs XLR and 1/4" (balanced)
Stereo Linking Multiple units linkable for 5.1 operation
Power Consumption 15 W max (20% lower than original FATSO)
Chassis 1U metal enclosure, 1.75" x 19" x 10"

What's in the Box

Included Items
Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X Analog Tape Simulator
Power Cable
User Documentation
Shipping

Shipping & Returns

  • We deliver all US orders in 3–5 business days
  • Free cancellations
  • Returns accepted within 30 days (unused items)

Order Confirmation

Once your order is placed, you will receive an order confirmation email. This confirms that we have received your order and have pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase. After confirming availability with our suppliers, we will proceed accordingly:

  • If your item is available and ready to ship within 1–2 business days, we will process the charge and arrange for shipment.

  • If your item is on backorder or unavailable, the pre-authorization will be voided and you will be notified by email.

  • Please note: While most items ship out within 1–2 business days, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location and carrier handling.

Order Shipment

If your item is in stock and your payment has been processed, your order will typically ship within 1–2 business days. Total delivery time is approximately 3–5 business days from the date of order. Once shipped, you will receive tracking information at the email address provided during checkout within 24 hours of dispatch.

If you have not received tracking information within 3–5 business days of placing your order, please contact us at support@proaudioreserve.com.

The Distributor-Direct Advantage

To ensure you receive the most recent hardware revisions and 100% factory-sealed units, Pro Audio Reserve utilizes a Distributor-Direct fulfillment model. Unlike big-box retailers that may ship "floor models" or gear that has been sitting in general-purpose warehouses, your equipment is pulled directly from the primary manufacturer hub, serialized, and dispatched. This process ensures the highest level of quality control for professional-grade recording equipment.

Shipping Policy

We currently offer free shipping within the United States only. If the checkout process on our website allows you to enter a shipping address and complete your order, your location is eligible to receive delivery.

Changing Shipping Address

If you need to change your shipping address after your order has been processed or shipped, we will do our best to accommodate the request. Please note that address changes may result in delivery delays. Any additional costs incurred due to address changes, including carrier fees or rerouting charges will be the responsibility of the customer. No exceptions.

Shipping Times

All shipping times provided are estimates and should not be considered guarantees. Most orders ship out within 1–2 business days from the time payment is processed. However, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location, carrier performance, and supplier fulfillment timelines.

We work closely with our vendors to ensure timely deliveries, but please note that supply chain disruptions, high-demand periods, or weather events may occasionally cause delays beyond our control.

  • To avoid misunderstandings: The “shipping time” refers to the total time from order placement to final delivery, not just when the item leaves the warehouse.

  • Cancellations: If you choose to cancel your order because it has not arrived within the estimated delivery window, you may be responsible for applicable shipping charges, restocking fees, warehouse handling costs, and other related fees.

  • Chargebacks: Customers who initiate chargebacks due to shipping delays without contacting us first may be held legally responsible for losses. We strongly encourage open communication so we can resolve any delivery concerns directly and efficiently via our Atlanta-based support team.

Delivery Options

  • Threshold Shipping: Your item will be delivered to your front door, porch, garage, or a covered entryway.

 

Why Buy From Us

We get it. You've got a lot of choice when it comes to online retailers.
Here's why we think you should shop with us at ProAudioReserve.

  • Free Shipping USA wide. 
  • 30 Day Easy Returns. Not happy with your product, we'll take it back noquestions asked.
  • Great Service. We pride ourselves on the best service, anywhere.

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Description

Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X Overview

  Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X analog tape simulator optimizer

Four Meticulously Tweaked Compression Modes

The FATSO EL7X features four compression modes designed to emulate classic analog behavior. The BUSS setting delivers gentle transient saturation synonymous with tape and reminiscent of the SSL Quad Compressor. SPANK provides the subtle knee followed by hard limiting that many grew to love on SSL E Series consoles. The TRACK compressor offers the classic Empirical Labs Distressor sound in an easier-to-use format.

The star of the EL7X update is the ELEVEN setting, which nails the wonderfully unique texture of a vintage 1176LN run at 20:1 with its slowest attack (still quite fast) and quick release. This delivers the full force and unique impact of transients — think snare drum — with radically limited dynamic range throughout the rest of the signal, creating that iconic aggressive punch engineers have chased for decades.

 Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X harmonic generation soft clipping modes

Harmonic Richness With Four Processing Modes

The FATSO EL7X provides four different processing modes for adding analog tape vibe and warmth. Harmonic Generation and Soft Clipper modes use a Class A circuit to gently round off audio peaks, just like saturated tubes or tape. High Frequency Saturation employs a clever dynamic high-cut filter that reduces HF energy only when it piles up beyond a certain point, emulating tape driven hard.

Transformer and Tape Head Emulation simulates the effect of input and output transformers from vintage gear, sounding fantastic on just about anything. Seven different warmth settings help emulate different tape formulations and machine anomalies, allowing you to choose between characteristics of Scotch 250, Ampex 456, BASF 911, Zonal 999, and other classic tape stocks without committing to a single format.

 Empirical Labs EL7X TRANNY button transformer emulation

The TRANNY Button: Over-the-Top Harmonic Content

The FATSO features what many engineers call the greatest button ever installed on any unit: the TRANNY button. This delivers final over-the-top harmonic content with compelling low-frequency focus while adding breath and urgency to any sound it meets. The transformer emulation brings the analog anomalies associated with classic equipment from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.

Combined with the harmonic generation, soft clipping, and high-frequency saturation modes, the TRANNY button can cure lameness found in common analog-to-digital converter sets, giving your music the width and breadth that makes folks wax nostalgic for $300 reels of tape and 500-plus-pound tape machines — all in an adjustable and repeatable manner without stress over sticking with initial decisions.

Highlights

  • Full analog tape simulator and optimizer with compression and saturation
  • Four compression modes: BUSS, SPANK, TRACK, and ELEVEN (1176LN emulation)
  • Harmonic Generation and Soft Clipping with Class A circuit
  • High Frequency Saturation with dynamic high-cut filter
  • Transformer and Tape Head Emulation for vintage gear character
  • Seven warmth settings emulating different tape formulations
  • TRANNY button for over-the-top harmonic content and transformer color
  • Updated EL7X design with 20% lower current draw and reduced noise floor
  • Cooler operating temperature compared to original FATSO
  • Frequency response: 2 Hz – 60 kHz (+0, -3 dB) in clean mode
  • Dynamic range: 110 dB with >100 dB signal-to-noise
  • Variable distortion: 0.06% to 20% depending on mode and settings
  • DC-coupled inputs and outputs
  • XLR and 1/4" inputs with stereo linking for 5.1 operation

Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X Specifications

Specification Details
Frequency Response 2 Hz – 60 kHz in clean audio mode (+0, -3 dB)
Dynamic Range 110 dB (max output at 20% THD soft clipping to min output); >100 dB signal-to-noise
Total Harmonic Distortion 0.06% to 20% depending on mode and settings
I/O Coupling DC-coupled inputs and outputs
Compression Modes BUSS, SPANK, TRACK, ELEVEN (1176LN emulation)
Attack Range 1 ms – 60 ms (fixed by compression type selected)
Release Range 0.05 sec – 3.5 sec (fixed by compression type selected)
Processing Modes Harmonic Generation/Soft Clipping, High Frequency Saturation, Transformer/Tape Head Emulation
Warmth Settings Seven settings emulating different tape formulations
TRANNY Mode Transformer emulation with enhanced harmonic content
Inputs XLR and 1/4" (balanced)
Stereo Linking Multiple units linkable for 5.1 operation
Power Consumption 15 W max (20% lower than original FATSO)
Chassis 1U metal enclosure, 1.75" x 19" x 10"

What's in the Box

Included Items
Empirical Labs FATSO EL7X Analog Tape Simulator
Power Cable
User Documentation
Shipping

Shipping & Returns

  • We deliver all US orders in 3–5 business days
  • Free cancellations
  • Returns accepted within 30 days (unused items)

Order Confirmation

Once your order is placed, you will receive an order confirmation email. This confirms that we have received your order and have pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase. After confirming availability with our suppliers, we will proceed accordingly:

  • If your item is available and ready to ship within 1–2 business days, we will process the charge and arrange for shipment.

  • If your item is on backorder or unavailable, the pre-authorization will be voided and you will be notified by email.

  • Please note: While most items ship out within 1–2 business days, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location and carrier handling.

Order Shipment

If your item is in stock and your payment has been processed, your order will typically ship within 1–2 business days. Total delivery time is approximately 3–5 business days from the date of order. Once shipped, you will receive tracking information at the email address provided during checkout within 24 hours of dispatch.

If you have not received tracking information within 3–5 business days of placing your order, please contact us at support@proaudioreserve.com.

The Distributor-Direct Advantage

To ensure you receive the most recent hardware revisions and 100% factory-sealed units, Pro Audio Reserve utilizes a Distributor-Direct fulfillment model. Unlike big-box retailers that may ship "floor models" or gear that has been sitting in general-purpose warehouses, your equipment is pulled directly from the primary manufacturer hub, serialized, and dispatched. This process ensures the highest level of quality control for professional-grade recording equipment.

Shipping Policy

We currently offer free shipping within the United States only. If the checkout process on our website allows you to enter a shipping address and complete your order, your location is eligible to receive delivery.

Changing Shipping Address

If you need to change your shipping address after your order has been processed or shipped, we will do our best to accommodate the request. Please note that address changes may result in delivery delays. Any additional costs incurred due to address changes, including carrier fees or rerouting charges will be the responsibility of the customer. No exceptions.

Shipping Times

All shipping times provided are estimates and should not be considered guarantees. Most orders ship out within 1–2 business days from the time payment is processed. However, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location, carrier performance, and supplier fulfillment timelines.

We work closely with our vendors to ensure timely deliveries, but please note that supply chain disruptions, high-demand periods, or weather events may occasionally cause delays beyond our control.

  • To avoid misunderstandings: The “shipping time” refers to the total time from order placement to final delivery, not just when the item leaves the warehouse.

  • Cancellations: If you choose to cancel your order because it has not arrived within the estimated delivery window, you may be responsible for applicable shipping charges, restocking fees, warehouse handling costs, and other related fees.

  • Chargebacks: Customers who initiate chargebacks due to shipping delays without contacting us first may be held legally responsible for losses. We strongly encourage open communication so we can resolve any delivery concerns directly and efficiently via our Atlanta-based support team.

Delivery Options

  • Threshold Shipping: Your item will be delivered to your front door, porch, garage, or a covered entryway.

 

Why Buy From Us

We get it. You've got a lot of choice when it comes to online retailers.
Here's why we think you should shop with us at ProAudioReserve.

  • Free Shipping USA wide. 
  • 30 Day Easy Returns. Not happy with your product, we'll take it back noquestions asked.
  • Great Service. We pride ourselves on the best service, anywhere.

Reviews

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
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(0)
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