FG-Stress Overview

The FG-Stress is a licensed digital replication of the iconic Empirical Labs Distressor. Designed to replicate the feel, tone, and behavior of this beloved compressor, FG-Stress provides engineers with a versatile and musical dynamic control tool.

Trimmer Module

Input

Sets the input gain. Higher values increase compression. Default: 5.

Attack

Controls how fast compression begins after exceeding the threshold. Range: 0–10.5. Default: 5.

Release

Controls how fast compression stops after the signal drops below the threshold. Range: 0–10.5. Default: 5.

Output

Sets output gain after compression. Range: 0–10.5. Default: 5.

Ratio

Sets compression ratio. Default: 6. Includes NUKE mode for limiting behavior.

Switch between ratios with left/right clicks or click the Ratio LED directly.

Shortcuts

  • Shift + drag Input/Output = inverse link
  • Click Ratio LED = direct selection
  • Shift + click 10:1 LED = triggers Opto Mode

Detector Modes

  • HP: Adds 86Hz high-pass to sidechain
  • Bell: Adds 6kHz boost to detection
  • Link: Mono detection for stereo tracks

Audio Modes

  • HP: Adds 80Hz high-pass to audio
  • Dist 2: Adds 2nd harmonic distortion
  • Dist 3: Adds 3rd harmonic distortion

5 total states available for combinations.

Mix

Blend between dry and wet signal (parallel compression).

GR Meter

Displays gain reduction with 16 LEDs. Shows maximum GR in stereo when Link is off.

Distortion Indicators

  • Yellow LED = 1% THD (lights at 0.25%)
  • Redline = 3% THD

Useful when using distortion modes or 1:1 ratio.


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