The Amtec PEQ-10 is a single-channel program equalizer of the highest quality standard based on the classic Pultec unit. It is
an upgraded version of our PEQ-1A unit and combines a passive equalization circuit with a tube amplifier stage providing gain
to make up for the signal loss of the passive filter. The classic passive filter circuit coupled to our tube amp allows for very clear
and punchy sound capable of massive low frequency boost giving monstrous bass sound that remains tight at the same time
and on the other hand it can also add that well-known silky smooth tone to the top end while not being shrill or harsh.
The filter stage lets to shape the frequency response in a very gentle and unique manner. The passive configuration minimizes
ringing and artifacts associated with active EQ circuits, maximizing signal integrity at the cost of the gain loss. To overcome
this gain loss the tube-based amplifier follows the equalization stage. The amplifier, contrary to the original design and its
clones, features an unique push-pull feedbackless topology and drives a proprietary custom-wound output transformer.
Very gentle equalization curves make Pultec EQs sound very musical. These classic curves, by some perceived as magic, are
designed for manipulation of the extremes of the audio spectrum, where the sound quality loss is most apparent and using
equalizers based on this design allows to easily bring back life, sense of power and brightness into any kind of an audio track
at every stage of audio work.
Applications vary from shaping tonality of an voice or instrument, modifying the sound of any track from vocals to bass drum,
to performing final treatments to entire mixes including the most demanding mastering situations.
The equalization section may seem simple for today's standards, but is in fact very flexible giving you the tool to powerfully
shape tonality without side effects. With the low frequency section you can boost bass without muddying the low mids, and
the high frequency section can add sheen and "air". Introduced warmth in the bottom end and sparkle in the treble give
individual tracks, voices and entire mixes more depth, punch, presence and clarity.
The PEQ-10 consists of a passive equalizer that is coupled to a tube amplifier restoring the gain. The passive circuit uses
inductors and capacitors to achieve equalization giving the most musical results and the least distortion possible.
The filter section is expanded with new frequency points in the high frequency band and additionally offers an option of the
shelving boost at the fixed frequency of 10kHz. The rest of the high frequency boost circuit has traditionally LC-based peaking
characteristics with variable bandwidth and frequency points ranging from 1.5kHz to 20kHz.
The gain recovery amplifier uses two double-triode tubes in a high-voltage, feedbackless push-pull circuit coupled to a specially
wound output transformer which provides balanced and floating output. The PEQ-10 makes use of the most commonly
available double-triodes (types ECC82/12AU7 and ECC83/12AX7) assuring easy service.
The make-up amplifier features intrinsic high bandwidth and linearity and does not need feedback to improve them what
results in minimum transient distortion. It also gives more open and effortless sound. The bypass switch omits equalization
section leaving the tube amplifier in the signal path.
The power supply has full regulation of the +B and heater voltages. Each unit is hand-build with great attention to details.
An important improvement is increased input impedance. A lot of contemporary equipment cannot drive the traditional 600
ohms load properly. The PEQ-10 has input impedance many times higher, thus it doesn't load down the output of the preceding
device.
All controls in the PEQ-10 are stepped using switches with gold-plated contacts for easy resetability, repeatability and also
the highest quality.
Despite having old-style features, the PEQ-10 is very versatile and is perfectly adequate to modern recording techniques.
With new frequencies it became yet more flexible than the original. This is the ultimate equalizer to make silky smooth
enhancements to vocals, bass, drums and complete mixes, but all of the other sources would benefit as well.
LOW FREQUENCY SECTION:
Shelving Boost: 0 to +16dB (steps are 0/1/2/3/4.5/6/8/10/12/14/16dB)
Shelving Attenuation: 0 to -16dB (steps are 0/1/2/3/4.5/6/8/10/12/14/16dB)
@ 20, 30, 60, 100 Hz
HIGH FREQUENCY SECTION:
Peaking Boost: 0 to +16dB (Sharp Bandwidth), steps are 0/1.5/3/4.5/6/7.5/9/10.5/12/14/16dB
0 to +6dB (Broad Bandwidth) in steps of approx. 0.6dB
@ 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16 kHz and shelving 10kHz
Shelving Attenuation: 0 to -20dB (steps are 0/1/2/3/4/6/8/10/13/16/20dB))
@ 5, 10, 20, 40 kHz
OVERALL:
Gain: 0dB
Input Impedance: 5 kOhms, balanced
Output Impedance: 50 Ohms, balanced and floating
Maximum Output Level: >+22dBu (1% THD) [600 ohms]
Frequency Response: better than 2Hz..40kHz -3dB [600 ohms]
Tubes: (1) ECC82/12AU7, (1) ECC83/12AX7
Power Requirements: 115V or 230V (factory option), 15VA
