Empress Effects Compressor MK II

When Empress released their 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. Based on user feedback, Empress took everything great about that 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 — input and gain reduction metering, independent attack and release controls, a mix knob for parallel compression, and an external sidechain insert — the MKII adds a "tilt" tone EQ control and a selectable sidechain high-pass filter built into the detection circuit. The whole package is now half the size and available in two snazzy finishes.

Transparent Analog Signal Path

Pure analog compression without any digital interference. FET compression preserves your instrument's original tone while adding dynamic control. Choose from 2:1, 4:1 and 10:1 ratios for a wide range of dynamic options, and fine-tune the compression character with independent attack and release controls.

Delightfully Designed

The enclosure is approximately half the size of the original Compressor, saving space on your pedalboard, and comes in undeniable Blue Sparkle 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 centred at 500Hz. The internal sidechain is controlled by a 3-position switch — 120Hz, 240Hz and off — which helps maintain clarity by preventing unwanted low-frequency pumping. For even greater control, use the 3.5mm TRS send and return for external sidechain compression.

Features

• FET compressor with transparent, all-analog signal path
• Multi-segment metering for input and gain reduction
• Selectable 2:1, 4:1 and 10:1 ratios
• Sidechain input with selectable high-pass filter
• Mix knob for parallel compression
• Tilt EQ centred at 500Hz
• True bypass switching

Specifications

• Input Impedance: 1MΩ
• Output Impedance: 2.2kΩ
• Frequency Response (-3dB): 20Hz – 20kHz
• Distortion: less than 0.1%
• Noise: 101dB
• Power Input Voltage: 9V DC (negative tip), 2.1mm barrel
• Power Consumption: ~100mA
• Enclosure Material: die-cast aluminium
• Dimensions: 4.8" L × 2.6" W × 1.5" H (2.5" including controls)
• Weight: 1 lb

UPC: Blue Sparkle 850040850208 · Silver Sparkle 850040850215