Following in the footsteps of its simpler three-band EQ PA sibling, the EQ PB module expands your flexibility by adding a fourth EQ band.
This module sounds great because of the simple, very unobtrusive and custom op-amp circuitry of the original hardware it is based on. Its four peak bands with seven selected frequencies cover the entire spectrum and then some. It also allows for layering of bands for complex forms of EQ - this is invaluable in mixing sessions where proper EQ is key to finding the correct balance and position of a track in a mix.
Simplicity, however, doesn't mean lacking in tone: The EQ PB doesn't have many of the bell-and-whistle features that others offer—like complex and attractive but often distracting displays. The ease of use of its two knobs per band enhances the module's analog feel, providing the instant gratification of turning a knob and hearing a result.
The same ""improve"" approach to the digital model's user interface applied to the 3-band version has been retained in the EQ PB: the dual concentric knobs of the original hardware have been split for better usability and an uncluttered view. The bandwidth gain is also increased in 1 dB increments (1.5 dBs at the end of the pitch) to achieve finer resolution.
The four-band design is particularly useful for exploring all the complex facets of critical midrange tracks such as guitars, vocals, pianos or strings. Having two dedicated midrange bands - which range from 75Hz to 12.5KHz in some spots - allows you to perform a variety of enhancements and cuts that will shape the track and fine-tune it. The low and high bands can be conveniently switched to bookshelf mode for wider strokes if needed.
As with the PA EQ, the proportional design of Q plays a particular role in this EQ, especially in dense, complex mixes. This type of design enhances the Q of any given band as the gain is increased (or cut) from a wide, smooth fashion at low gain levels to a narrow Q at extreme values. This approach results in two benefits: phase shift is minimized and no additional control is required for bandwidth management.
To complete the package, the same preamp circuit used in the EQ PA is also integrated into this module. This means that the sonic envelope of this four-band EQ can be pushed even further. The interaction between the preamp stage and the EQ is a crucial factor in finding many tonal variations of the same track. Engaging the preamp and increasing its gain causes the following components - from the filter network to the output transformer - to react differently and this actually more than doubles the sonic possibilities on offer. This makes it more than a simple EQ, but a complex, yet simple to use ""tone machine"".
When the preamp is deactivated, the Gain and Out controls act as clean input and output levels in the EQ section for useful adjustments.
