Empirical Labs Complete Collection 2
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About this plugin
Empirical Labs' Complete Collection 2 bundles four saturation and dynamics processors modeled after Dave Derr's legendary hardware designs. Built by Softube with direct input from Derr himself, these plugins capture the aggressive-yet-controlled character that defined the Distressor's influence on modern mixing.
The collection centers on Professor Punch-Knuckles, a saturation unit offering three distinct distortion flavors with selectable emphasis filters. Unlike aggressive saturation tools, Punch-Knuckles maintains clarity across its range from subtle warmth to heavy compression artifacts. LilfrEQ delivers a compact but powerful three-band EQ with the company's signature analogue coloration, designed specifically for surgical de-essing on vocals and targeted frequency shaping on drums. Mike-E Comp provides transparent dynamics control with the punch-oriented compression character Empirical Labs built its reputation on. The included Trak Pak integration with Console 1 hardware controllers streamlines workflow for tactile mixing.
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What distinguishes this collection is its philosophical consistency. Rather than modeling individual vintage units, Softube captured Empirical Labs' sonic DNA - punchy, present, and unafraid of harmonic complexity without sacrificing intelligibility. The tools prioritize musicality over surgical precision, making them particularly effective on drums, vocals, and bass where character matters as much as control.
This bundle suits engineers seeking cohesive saturation and dynamics across a mix while maintaining modern analogue credibility. Compared to broader saturation collections, the Complete Collection 2 offers narrower but deeper specialization in the rock and hip-hop aesthetic Empirical Labs pioneered. At its price point, it represents significant value for producers investing in a branded sonic signature.