Gainlab Audio Dictator Compressor - Out Of The Box at Front End Audio

Check out the Gainlab Audio Dictator Compressor in our "Out Of The Box" series here at Front End Audio where we take a quick look at this compressor, the features and what you can expect when you open the box!
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.
For more information on the Gainlab Audio Dictator Compressor, check it out here: www.frontendau...

[@Rhuggins]

Lovely video. I'm going to ask an incredibly stupid question - which is stupid for a number of reasons that I am very well aware of - BUT, this - or Manley? I'm torn between the two. My only hesitation with this is that if I do not care for it, I will wish I had bought a Manley instead and then eventually - need to buy that as well. I know its quite a bit faster, and more saturated...different animals I suppose

[@FrontEndAudio]

Not a stupid question. Both are great units. What it will truly come down to is character. Gainlabs does not cut corners. They build high-end gear, just as good quality as Manley. Manley has their signature tone that comes from their custom designed IRON transformers. The Manley is not a clone of the Fairchild, it just uses a similar design (being based on the Variable Mu design). Same with the Dictator, it is not a Fairchild clone - just based on the Variable Mu design. The difference is in the tone.
The Manley is a smooth silky modern tone. A little more on the soft and relaxed side. Even with heavy compression, it is never really grabby. Why so many people love it for vocals. But it is nice just to run things thru for that IRON tone.
The Dictator can be soft and gentle, but can also be aggressive and grabby. However it does all of that in a warm vintage punchy musical way. It can be gentle for vocals and piano, as well as moderate for guitars, and aggressive for drums and bass. It also sings on mix bus.
If you want that warm vnitage tone with a ton of sculping flexibility, the Gainlab Dictator is a great choice. If you want a modern smooth, silky, compressor with that signature IRON tone, the Manley is the ticket. Having both would not overlap at all.
Hope that helps. For further questions, please email or call us through our website.
Thank you!

[@Rhuggins]

@@FrontEndAudio Wow, I asked three separate dealers this very question as a potential customer- and got either ghosted or given a textbook nonsense answer. Im very impressed with your reply; you clearly demonstrate knowledge of both of the products (and I have been around long enough to sniff out a nonsense answer). On a youtube comment of all things. Kudos to you. Looks like I found my next dealer for the Gainlab. Also want the empress. Thanks so very much for your professionalism

[@FrontEndAudio]

@@Rhuggins we appreciate the kind words and we work hard to make sure each and every customer feels the same way. Uou should expect nothing less from your gear dealer. We look forward to earning your business in the future!