Back to navigation


The Empress Compressor ? Evolved!





This article was


Written By





Our Product Research Team





Get to know them!





The all-analog MkII compressor pedal from Empress features the classic features you know and love from the original, but with a few optimizations to enhance your experience. In typical Empress fashion, guitarists are afforded the in-depth and high-grade controls of pro studio compression units in one intuitive stomp box, including Input/Output gain reduction metering, an independent Attack/Release characteristic control, a parallel compression Mix knob, and an external sidechain insert. That’s already a blueprint for success, but Empress managed to make it even better with the Compressor MkII! This updated pedal now features a 500Hz-centered tilt Tone EQ control and a built-in Highpass Filter for your sidechain ? talk about onboard convenience! Gearheads at Sweetwater put it simply: whether you’re looking for some complex studio controls or just a great transparent and tone-preserving compression effect, the Compressor MkII from Empress will deliver!





Related Videos: Guitar Compressor Mk II - Silver





NOW PLAYING:


Empress Compressor MkII Pedal Demo





Sidechaining with the Empress Compressor MKII and Bass Compressor


Smaller but mightier!





The Compressor MkII comes to you in a package that’s been virtually sliced in half, but with all the options you need for specific metering to track down that perfect compressed effect. One such example of this pedal’s more optimized approach is a trio of compression ratios, including 2:1, 4:1, and 10:1 at your disposal for maximum refinement flexibility. Visually speaking, however, an array of True Display LED bulbs displays a tall and accurate reading of your compressor’s activity while two available and impressive sparkle finish options join in on the magnificent face plate design! Versatility? Check. Looks? Double check!





Empress Compressor MkII Features:


Updated and condensed version of the original Empress Compressor!


Input/Output controls expertly manage your signal’s gain reduction


Independent Attack/Release shapes the characteristic of your compressed signal


Mix knob allows for parallel compression of your compressed and uncompressed signals


External sidechain insert provides a 3.5mm TRS send/return for expansion options


Updated tilt-style Tone control conveniently centers at 500Hz


Onboard High Pass Filter for your sidechain with 120-240Hz toggle selections


A versatile trio of compression ratios to choose (2:1, 4:1, 10:1)


Smaller chassis prioritizes space efficiency on your board


True Display LED metering and brilliant sparkle finishes look great in any lighting!