SPL PQ Mastering Equalizer

A World-class Mastering EQ from SPL

The SPL PQ Mastering Equalizer is one of the most powerful EQs we’ve seen at the pro audio The PQ is a fully parametric, dual-channel five-band affair in a 4RU chassis weighing in at robust 33.5 pounds. Typical for SPL, the precision build quality is exceptional, with detented potentiometers, buttons, and switches that feel smooth, solid, and precise. The PQ uses SPL’s 120V Rail Technology for optimized dynamic range and headroom and effortless rendering of program material. And as SPL gear is often found in world-class mastering facilities, the impressive flexibility built into the PQ comes as no surprise.

Mastering-grade flexibility and precision

Each of the PQ’s ten bands (five per channel) can each be separately activated and deactivated and each band allows you to switch between Constant and Proportional Q. Left-channel Bypass and constant Q can be controlled by the right side in Link mode. The 1/4 Gain Switch, reduces boost or attenuation amplitude by a factor of 3/4, which changes the potentiometer gain from a maximum of ±20dB to ±5dB. This makes it possible to perform minute corrections, as is common in Mastering. For precise recall, the PQ features stepped pots that are adjustable in 41 steps.

Auto Bypass for optimal A/B comparisons

To be able to make an objective judgment about the processed material, it is best not to have to manually toggle between the original and processed signals by yourself, but rather have it done automatically — and that’s with the PQ’s Auto Bypass feature does. With Auto Bypass, not having to move from the sweet spot allows you to concentrate on the music to optimally assess your processing — a big advantage. The Interval control determines how often the compressor toggles between the processed and unprocessed signals, with hard left being the shortest setting. Turning the knob clockwise increases the interval.

The benefits of 120V Rail Technology

SPL’s 120V Rail Technology lets the PQ Mastering Equalizer run on an operating voltage of 120 volts — twice that of discrete op-amps and four times that of semiconductor operational amplifiers — in order to achieve superior technical and sonic performance. On the technical side, 120V Rail Technology optimizes headroom and dynamic range — which manifests sonically in the effortless resolution of fine details and is overall a confident, relaxed rendition of program material. Music sounds completely natural, while listening fatigue is dramatically reduced.

SPL PQ Mastering Equalizer Features:

Fully parametric, dual-channel 5-band equalizer

Frequency response: 10Hz–40kHz

LF: 10Hz–330Hz

LMF: 33Hz–1kHz

MF: 128Hz–4,1kHz

HMF: 310Hz–10kHz

HF: 760Hz–24kHz

Per-band EQ engage, Constant/Proportional Q switches

1/4 Gain Switch for making minute corrections

Auto Bypass for optimal A/B evaluation

Rugged 4RU chassis with high-precision pots, buttons, and switches

41-step detented potentiometers for precise recall

SPL 120V Rail Technology for superior technical and sonic performance

Dimensions: 19″ x 7″ x 12.25″

Weight: 33.5 pounds

Tech Specs

Type:Solid State

Number of Channels:2

Bypass:Yes

Number of Bands:5

High Pass Filter:Yes

Low Pass Filter:Yes

Q Type:Switchable (Constant, Proportional)

Boost/Cut Range:±20dB

Freq Range High:760Hz-24kHz

Freq Range Hi-Mid:310Hz-10.2kHz

Freq Range Mid:128Hz-4.1kHz

Freq Range Lo-Mid:33Hz-1kHz

Freq Range Low:10Hz-330Hz

Inputs:2 x XLR

Outputs:2 x XLR

Frequency Response:10Hz-100kHz (-3dB)

Rack Spaces:4U

Power Source:Standard IEC AC cable (included)

Height:6.97″

Depth:11.8″

Width:19.0″

Weight:33.51 lbs.