Softube's Empirical Labs Trak Pak brings the distinctive processing character of Empirical Labs Instruments into the Console 1 ecosystem through software models of two complementary hardware units: the Lil FrEQ de-esser and equalizer, and the Mike-E saturator and compressor. Developed in close collaboration with ELI founder Dave Derr, these tools capture the company's signature approach to aggressive, colorful mixing.
The Lil FrEQ delivers surgical de-essing alongside a three-band equalizer with the punchy, articulate character typical of Empirical Labs' designs. The Mike-E pairs soft-knee compression with harmonic saturation, delivering the fat, driven tone that defines the brand's sonic identity. When chained together as a channel strip, they create a cohesive processing unit that adds substantial presence and analogue warmth to individual tracks.
The plugin is purpose-built for Console 1's tactile workflow, with the physical control surface providing intuitive access to key parameters. This integration makes the Trak Pak particularly valuable for engineers who prioritize hands-on mixing over mouse-based automation. The combination works especially well on lead vocals, drums, and bass where the aggressive character and compression characteristics prove most musical.
Experienced producers familiar with hardware ELI gear will recognize the processing signature immediately. For those approaching it fresh, the channel strip offers considerable power without requiring deep parameter exploration. Given Softube's track record meticulously modelling professional equipment, the Trak Pak represents a genuine alternative to hardware, not merely a convenient facsimile.
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