Gainlab Audio Dictator Compressor

Gainlab Audio

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Product Code: 3579
$2,480.00
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The Gainlab Audio Dictator Compressor is a tube based dynamic controller which is designed after a classic vari-mu compressors.

Theoretically similar to the legendary Fairchild 670 and Gates STA-Level in addition to the contemporary solutions in order to have a better control over the sound. The bespoke design of the branch circuits we just simply call the “mu-follower”. The two channels of the compressor can provide synchronised running throughout the whole range of the transition curve and so excellent gain reduction can be achieved. The time wise working parameters and the saturation characteristics are very familiar to the known tube based compressors.

The Dictator is a true vari-mu compressor which consist a pair of pentodes that were mass produced in exceptional quality during Warsaw Pact in countries such as Hungary, East Germany or Poland. The surrounding circuits of the tube amplifier are using the latest technical solutions that allow the most precise parallel channel working characteristics which helps to achieve extreme setup conditions. For instance, it can be pulsing on a masterbus or it can produce crispy saturation alongside never existed transients and dirty breaks. Or work as a simple saturator with minimal dynamic control. Gainlab Audio's intention was to create a master compressor and bus compressor for mixing, but in experienced hands the Dictator can be used as a sound design tool as well. The Dictator keeps every aspect of the sound in hand, it is precise however not always clean, just like all the dictators from the history books.

Gainlab Audio Dictator Compressor Features

  • True dual pentode tube design
  • Contemporary side chain design
  • Modern line driver
  • Military grade vacuum tubes (6k4p-EV (6К4П-EB) long life pentode)
  • Permalloy transformers

Gainlab Audio Dictator Compressor Specifications

  • Input: 2 x Balanced XLR
  • Output: 2 x Balanced XLR
  • Max. Input: +22dBu
  • Input impedance: >10Kohm
  • Frequency response: 20Hz-20Khz +/- 1dB
  • Size: 483x280x89
  • Weight: 4.2 Kg
  • Mains: 230V AC (EU), 110V AC (US)
  • Max. Output: >26dBu
  • Output impedance: <65ohm
  • THD+N (0dBu): <0.3%

Gainlab Audio Dictator Compressor Includes

  • Gainlab Audio Dictator Compressor
  • Power Cable
  • Manual
  • Warranty Information

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What We Think

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The Gainlab Audio Dictator is one of those compressors that immediately makes you pay attention — and honestly, it’s the reason we decided to bring Gainlab Audio into the fold. While using it in the studio, what stood out right away was just how flexible it is. You can dial it in to be open and subtle, or push it into tight, aggressive territory, and it always manages to stay smooth and musical. Even when it really clamps down, it avoids that pumping or breathy behavior that can distract from the music. The compression stays controlled and clean, but never boring. What really sets the Dictator apart, though, is how aware it feels. This might sound a little strange, but it genuinely seems like the compressor knows what kind of music you’re feeding it. We’ve had sessions where we set it up on a heavy mix, left the settings untouched, and then ran something completely different through it — and somehow it still just worked. The character shifts in a way that feels natural and appropriate to the material, while still respecting the settings you’ve chosen. It’s one of those pieces you have to hear (and feel) to fully understand. The Dictator isn’t just a great compressor — it’s an inspiring one, and it quickly earns your trust the more you use it.

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