Empirical Labs EL9 Mike-e

The Empirical Labs EL9 Mike-e is a digitally controlled, high-end analogue microphone preamplifier that combines precise recall with the distinctive analogue character for which Empirical Labs processors are known. Two digitally controlled buttons adjust the preamp gain in fixed 5dB increments across a 10-70dB range, with a further 20dB available at the output stage – delivering up to 80dB of total available gain from a single channel. This approach makes settings quick to recreate while eliminating the wear and crackle associated with conventional gain potentiometers. Its defining feature, however, is the CompSat section: Continuing the tradition established by processors such as the Distressor and Fatso, it offers a uniquely creative combination of compression, saturation, and tonal shaping rarely found in a single analogue preamp.

The Empirical Labs Mike-e accepts microphone signals via a rear-panel XLR input and instrument signals through a front-panel DI with automatic Hi-Z switching. The signal first passes through an ultra-low-noise preamp featuring 48V phantom power, phase inversion, an 80Hz high-pass filter, and switchable input impedance (600 Ohms or 3.3 kOhms) to accommodate different microphones, instruments, and line-level sources. It then enters the CompSat section, which combines a compressor, saturator, and HF emphasis circuit capable of generating tape-style harmonic saturation, with "Warm" and "Toasty" indicators reflecting the increasing intensity of the effect. A Dry/Wet control allows the processed and original signals to be blended directly within the unit, making parallel compression and saturation possible without additional routing.

At around €2,000 for a single-channel microphone preamplifier, the Empirical Labs Mike-e is firmly aimed at the professional studio, combining premium analogue circuitry with precise digital control. The 1U 19" format integrates easily into commercial studios, mobile recording rigs, and high-end production environments, while the rear panel is already prepared for optional factory upgrades. Available options include a Lundahl XL input transformer for increased low-frequency headroom, a Jensen output transformer with a second XLR output, an insert point between the preamp and CompSat section, or combinations of these upgrades as bundled packages, allowing the Mike-e to evolve alongside the studio.

The CompSat compressor draws directly on the Distressor, one of the most widely respected compressors in professional recording. Compression ratios are digitally switched: 1:1 (saturation only), 2:1, 4:1, 8:1, and Nuke – the Distressor's famously aggressive compression mode capable of dramatically reshaping a signal's dynamics and transients. Attack and release are independently switchable across four settings (0.9, 2, 8, and 100ms for attack and 50, 100, 250, and 500ms for release), giving the Empirical Labs Mike-e considerable control over both dynamics and harmonic colour. Vocals are its natural speciality – the Drive control moves the signal from gentle warmth to full "Toasty" harmonic saturation, while drums gain additional body and punch. The front-panel DI is equally rewarding, bringing the same distinctive combination of gain staging, compression, and analogue colour to bass guitars and other DI sources.