Pultec EQP-1A3-SS Solid State Equalizer with API Gain Stage, Silver Faceplate

As described on the EQP-1A3 product page, the 2U EQM-1A3 is a condensed version of the iconic 3U EQP-1A. The EQM-1A3 takes the EQP-1A/EQP-1A3 evolution one step further by replacing the BOOST/ATTEN potentiometers with 21-position (and BW with 11-position) ELMA switches, loaded with precision metal film resistors to achieve custom tapers for each control andthissolid-state line amp version of the EQM-1A3 has exactly the same front end (input transformer and passive EQ section) but utilize a solid-state opamp (API 2520) gain stage driving a Triad output transformer, just like the originals.

The current design implements our full-range, progressive-taper design, which provides 0.5 dB per step precision for the first 50% of rotation and then progressively larger (1 or 2 dB) steps as the control is rotated from 50% to 100% of rotation.This allows precise control for subtle equalization for mix bus or similar applications or the full 18-20 dB BOOST/ATTEN of the potted version when tracking or mixing of individual tracks.Furthermore, the stepped controls make recall a breeze and the precise tracking between units is essential for stereo image retention when using a pair on the stereo mix bus.

In the early 1970s, after condensing the classic 3U model EQP-1A into the 2U form-factor model EQP-1A3 (same components, same specs), Pulse Techniques introduced a solid-state line amp version of the EQP-1A3. These units have exactly the same front end (input transformer and passive EQ section) but utilize a solid-state opamp (API 2520) gain stage driving a Triad output transformer, just like the originals.

This version of the EQP-1A3 is actually preferred by some engineers for certain applications (kick, snare, bass, piano, etc.) and also serves as the core for our 500-series EQs. Many users of this version of the Pultec describe them as more punchy and having a tighter low end than the tube version. Pulse Techniques, LLC is the only company licensed to use genuine API 2520 opamps in their products. These EQs deliver plenty of the punch and mojo of their tube-amp counterparts, with just a slightly different flavor.