The best stereo EQ processors for mixdown and mastering ·
Source: SSL
The mixing stage is a crucial aspect of the recording process as you finalize your productions for release. We take a look at some of the best stereo EQ devices you can use to control your master bus.
Hardware of this kind is not cheap, but still far more affordable than the original vintage designs from the 50s, 60sAnd 70s. It is also available in formats such as the 500 series, which is more compact and even offers portability for Live sound environments.
As with preamplifiers, you often have to choose between clean transformerless designs or those that offer classic topologies with transformer or tube saturation. To have the best of both worlds, mastering studios are often equipped with both characterful and more transparent EQ types, so keep in mind the style of music you’re working with.
Choosing the best stereo EQs
While some parametric EQ Designs are based on well-known classics, others may take on one or two functions. This is done with the aim of innovating and creating a tool that is more relevant in the context of modern audio production.
SSL UltraViolet EQ
The UltraViolet EQ is the perfect complement to the SSL bus compressor. Derived from the EQ section of the SSL Fusion processor, it gives you a selection of controls to shape your mix. These include two blocking filters with four selectable bandstwo Peaking filterand a additional LP filter.
The most important parametric controls are the two variable mid bandswhich also useful Focus switchThis feature narrows the Q-factor and increases the Gain rangeso you can get even more precise adjustments.
Elysia Xfilter Qube
The Elysia Xfilter Qube offers a cost-effective solution for complementing an extremely high-quality parametric EQ Stage on your Mixed busIt offers two parametric peaking filter bands with narrow Q-switches And two shelving filters with Resonance shutdown switch.
All four bands are active, but there is an additional passive filter for the addition of a gentle High frequency light up at 12kHzOverall, Xfilter is geared towards current music production practices and is also available as a 500 series module, a rack unit and a mastering edition.
Illustrator 1974
As the name suggests, the Drawmer 1974 is a parametric stereo EQ inspired by the designs of the 1970s. Apart from the vintage sound, you get a very flexible Four-band EQ which in every phase of the Recording process.
The two mid-range bands have Variable Q controls, and there are additional high And Low pass filter to really focus the extent of the frequency range you are working with. A great choice if you are looking for a classically designed but affordable EQ.
IGS rubber bands ME
The IGS Audio Rubber Bands ME are an excellent choice for mixdown and mastering. Pultec-style EQs may be more limited than full parametric EQs in many ways. However, they force you to take a more practical approach that can make you a better engineer over time.
Use the controls to select individual frequencies for damping And increasing in both high And low rangewhich increases versatility. In addition, you can also increase the bandwidth of the High frequency filter just like the original Pultec.
WES Audio Hyperion
The WesAudio Hyperion offers everything you would expect from a professional Hardware EQ and more. In addition to the extensive Parametric controlsit is also a Middle/Side processor, which makes things a lot more interesting.
In addition, in conjunction with the Titan 500 Series rack, you receive complete digital control from your DAC including Preferences And automationThe only disadvantage is that these manufacturer-specific Features.
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