IK Multimedia Vintage Tube Program Equalizer (Download)

The IK Multimedia Vintage Tube Program Equalizer (Download) is an EQ processor plug-in based on the classic Pultec EQP-1A hardware equalizer. This particular equalizer is highly regarded in the history of mixing and mastering for its warm musical sound. The software emulation is the result of an extensive analysis of the original hardware, with every feature and function recreated in the software version, including the 12AU7, 12AX7, and 6×4 tubes found in the output gain stage.

The processor features wide filter bandwidths making it suitable to be used as a program EQ on the mix bus, but it can also be placed on individual tracks such as for adding weight to a kick drum sound or presence to drum overheads. The closely replicated frequency centers and boost cuts allow for classic EQ techniques, including the “Pultec EQ Trick,” wherein you boost and cut at the same center frequency to create a notch that reduces the aggressiveness of the center frequency.

The user interface for the software offers buttons for setting Left/Right, Mid/Side, or stereo link. For controls it includes virtual knobs for selecting the low and high center frequency, dialing in the bandwidth and adjusting the boost and attenuation for both bands. You can also select the level of attenuation as well as the overall output gain level.

The plug-in is fully compatible with native 32- and 64-bit applications on both Mac OS X (Universal Binary) and Windows (XP/Vista/7/8) computers. It supports VST, RTAS, AAX, and Audio Units plug-in formats. It can also be used with the T-RackS CS standalone application (sold separately).