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Empirical Labs FATSO Tape Simulator

$2,449.00 to $2,599.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (3)

Find out who is using Empirical Labs FATSO

4 wishlisted

9 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated May 29, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

5.0 (9)

$2,449.00

$2,449.00

$2,449.00

$2,449.00

5.0 (1)

$2,449.00

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$2,449.00

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5.0 (5)

$2,599.00

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5.0 (3)

$2,449.00

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Average Price: $2,468

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Effects Processors category, Empirical Labs FATSO Tape Simulator is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Empirical Labs FATSO Tape Simulator". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Unleash the warmth and character of vintage analog gear with the Empirical Labs FATSO Tape Simulator, a masterpiece designed to bring the elusive qualities of classic tape and tube sounds into the digital age. Perfectly blending the old with the new, the FATSO offers a gateway to the past, enabling today's musicians and engineers to infuse their digital recordings with the soulful warmth that only vintage gear could provide. Whether you're looking to soften the digital edge of your mixes or add harmonic richness, the FATSO is your ticket to audio nirvana.

This two-channel audio processor stands out with its "Eleven" compressor setting, a homage to the legendary UREI 1176LN, offering a unique blend of slow attack and fast release that has shaped the sound of countless hit records. With the FATSO, achieving that perfect balance of dynamics and saturation is not just possible; it's effortlessly enjoyable. Designed for versatility, it's equally at home on individual tracks as it is on busses, making it an invaluable tool for any recording or mixing environment.

Dive into the FATSO and explore a world where digital clarity meets analog warmth, all housed in a user-friendly interface that promises to make every session an adventure in sound. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, the Empirical Labs FATSO Tape Simulator is set to become an essential component of your audio arsenal.

Key Features:

"Eleven" compressor setting emulates the classic UREI 1176LN, providing a high ratio with a slow attack and fast release for dynamic control.
Four distinct processing modes: Harmonic Generation and Soft Clipping, High-Frequency Saturation, Transformer & Tape Head Emulation, and Classic Knee Compression.
Updated design significantly lowers the noise floor and operating temperature, ensuring consistent performance and longevity.
Versatile functionality makes it ideal for tracking, mixing, and mastering across various genres and applications.
User-friendly interface with high-resolution knobs for precise control and recall of settings.
Stereo link functions and improved bypass operation enhance workflow efficiency and creative flexibility.
Employs Class A circuitry for gentle peak rounding, simulating the warmth of saturated tubes or tape.

Videos

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Universal Audio

FATSO Jr. / Sr. Analog Tape Simulator and Compressor Powered Plug-In Trailer

Universal Audio

Universal Audio UAD-2 Empirical Labs EL7 Fatso Jr/Sr Tutorial

Warp Academy

Empirical Labs Fatso demo video - Gearwire

gearwire

Empirical Labs EL7X Fatso 2 Minute Tones - Empirical Labs EL7x Fatso Stereo Audio Processor

American Musical Supply

Empirical Labs Dave Derr Interview Fatso

American Musical Supply

Reviews

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PROS

Adds unique warmth and tape simulation to various sources
Versatile: effective on vocals, drums, guitars, and more
Simulates a variety of compressors effectively
Dual mono or linked stereo operation
Significant impact without the noise of actual tape
Durable build, withstands rough handling and environments
Free tech support and repairs from the manufacturer
Easy to use, with a helpful manual for learning
Saves costs on tape and time in the studio
Enhances digital tracks with noticeable saturation and compression

CONS

Compressor can be overly aggressive, easy to overdo
Not the best choice for mastering purposes
Learning curve to fully exploit its potential
High cost may be prohibitive for some budgets
Physical design could be improved for better aesthetics

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Empirical Labs FATSO Tape Simulator.

Features and functionality

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The Empirical Labs FATSO is primarily praised as a compressor rather than for tape saturation artifacts.
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The FATSO plugin is noted for its ability to significantly beef up the low end while maintaining a modern and big sound.
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Comparisons

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Users compare the FATSO to the Anamod ATS for tape emulation, noting the FATSO excels more as a drum bus compressor.
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Users suggest SoundToys Decapitator as a different option, noting it's not a direct replacement for the FATSO plugin but offers unique features.
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For a lo-fi, vintage effect, alternatives like Sketch Cassette or the Waves J37 are recommended over the FATSO for their effective tape emulation.
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The UBK-modified FATSO is perceived as more versatile than the standard model, which is viewed as limited to a few key applications.
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Use cases and applications

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The FATSO is frequently used for its compression capabilities on drum buses, but not primarily for tape emulation.
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The FATSO plugin is praised for making audio "fat and punchy," enhancing low-end and compressing with a thick tone, though not necessarily achieving a lo-fi sound.
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While the standard FATSO excels on acoustic guitar and percussion, its compressor is generally not ideal for heavy compression without modification.
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Value and pricing

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The FATSO is recognized as a "badass compressor" but not the best choice for achieving tape saturation effects.
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Software and compatibility

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UAD plugins like the FATSO require UAD interfaces due to their DSP processing, which may limit compatibility with modern multi-core CPU systems.
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Mods and upgrades

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The UBK mod enhances the FATSO's compressor usability, potentially allowing for more aggressive compression, especially useful for acoustic guitar and percussion.
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User experience

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Owners express a preference for maintaining hardware like the FATSO and Distressor due to the tactile and unique sound qualities that plugins struggle to replicate.
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