The Warden is an optical compressor from EarthQuaker Devices, designed with high-grade components providing substantial gain and sustain. It operates internally on 18v power, allowing for versatility that typically belongs to studio-grade compressors. Users can control attack, release, sustain, and ratio, giving them the ability to achieve various compression effects, from heavy squash to light compression. Optical compression is known for its character, making The Warden stand out against traditional VCA or FET-based compressors. With its well-thought-out design and control settings, The Warden is perfect for musicians seeking to enhance their tone while maintaining dynamic range.