The classic Pultec EQP-1A sound in a compact module.

The classic all-tube Pultec PEQ-1A goes down on the record books as one of the most venerated equalizers of all time, cherished by recording and mastering engineers for its almost mythical ability to improve the sound of just about anything running through it. Finally, after much research and development, A-Designs Audio announces that it has managed to capture much of the essence of the famed EQ in a new product -and one that fits in a compact 500 Series module frame size, no less! In fact, as you'll see below in our Channel Strips of the Stars segment, the EM-PEQ goes the legendary Pultec one better.

Dubbed the EM-PEQ, A-Designs Audio was able to shrink this highly sought after filter design into the now red-hot 500 Series format without compromise to either build quality or sonic caliber. The EQ section design and control layout of the classic PEQ-1A has been meticulously maintained, as well as its wonderfully smooth musicality.

Makeup amplification is achieved through the use of the same discrete Class AB amplifier found in A-Designs Audio's popular solid-state Pacifica mic preamp, putting a slightly unique twist on the classic design of yesteryear.

Additional features include a nickel core output transformer, gold Grayhill rotary switches, Wima caps, and a true hard bypass. Instead of using common off-the-shelf chokes, A-Designs uses a custom-wound tapped inductor wound to the original values. Fully-balanced, noise-free operation with modern impedance specs make for dummy-proof operation and fast studio integration.

The new EM-PEQ is an approved API VPR Alliance product and may also be used in Brent Averill Enterprises racks and A-Designs Audio's R52 manufactured by Avedis Audio Electronics.

Channel Strips of the Stars: Dylan 3D Dresdow

Primarily a mixer these days, Dylan Dresdow s list of credits includes Black-Eyed Peas, Usher, Michael Jackson, Fergie, and Flo Rida. Dylan was kind enough to share his some of his gear secrets for processing background vocals and kick drum.

For my BG vocal chain, I typically use the Crane Song STC-8 compressor into the HAMMER EQ (#180185). Sometimes I'll run a high-pass filter pre compression. The (A Designs Audio) EM-PEQ usually ends up on my "'main" kick drum track. I can get more punch and click out of it, versus a typical Pultec EQP-1. I used these setups for songs I've mixed recently for Usher ("Revolver", "What's Your Name?"), Michael Jackson ("Starting Something remake 2008"), Fergie ("Clubsy Remix", "Pick It Up"), and Flo Rida ("Ayer").

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A-Designs EM-PEQ Equalizer in compact 500 Series Module