Pultec-Style EQs for Modern Studios: The EM-PEQ and EM-EQ2

Classic Tone, Modern Reliability

For decades, the Pultec EQP-1A has been one of the most revered equalizers in recording history. Known for its smooth curves, warm harmonics, and musical response, it earned its place on countless hit records by doing something few EQs can: making everything sound better. But original units are rare, fragile, and expensive—not to mention packed with tubes that require ongoing maintenance.

That’s where the EM-PEQ and EM-EQ2 come in. Designed by A-Designs Audio, these modern, solid-state versions of the iconic Pultec EQ deliver the same musicality and feel as the original—without the drawbacks of vintage hardware.

What Made the Original Pultec EQ So Legendary?

The original Pultec EQP-1A was a tube-based passive equalizer that stood out for its uniquely musical response. Instead of harsh or clinical frequency boosts, the EQP-1A offered gentle, overlapping curves that enhanced a signal in ways that felt organic. It became a favorite on vocals, bass, kick, piano, and mix buses—not because it was transparent, but because it added a sense of depth and polish.

Its secret weapon? The ability to simultaneously boost and attenuate the same frequency band—especially in the low end—creating a subtle dip in the middle and a rounder, more controlled bass response. Add to that the smooth high-frequency lift, and it’s easy to understand why engineers still chase that sound.

Solid-State Advantages in the EM-PEQ and EM-EQ2

Unlike the original tube-based design, both the EM-PEQ and EM-EQ2 use a discrete solid-state topology—but that doesn’t mean sterile or flat. In fact, A-Designs engineered both units to retain the signature curves and musical behavior of the original, while offering some distinct advantages of their own.

By eliminating tubes, both EQs offer:

• Lower noise floor for high-resolution modern recordings
• More consistent performance across sessions and environments
• Tighter low end with more focused bass shaping
• Clean, open top end with less harmonic smear
• No tube maintenance—just plug in and go

And most importantly, they’re far more affordable than a vintage unit—making them accessible to home studios, mobile rigs, and high-end facilities alike.

Two Formats, Same Pultec Spirit

The EM-PEQ packs all the magic of a Pultec into a compact 500-series module. It’s perfect for modular setups and allows engineers to add that sweet tone right at the preamp stage or on inserts. It uses the exact same frequency points, and tapped inductors, just like the original design, plus custom Cinemag transformers.

Meanwhile, the EM-EQ2 is a 2U, dual-mono rackmount unit that brings stereo flexibility to tracking, mixing, or mastering. It’s great for buss work, acoustic guitars, vocals, or even full mixes—giving you two channels of smooth, musical tone shaping with tactile, stepped controls.

Who Are These EQs For?

If you're looking to bring vintage analog tone to your modern workflow—without the risks and costs of maintaining old tube gear—both of these units are for you. They're especially ideal for:

• Tracking vocals or acoustic instruments with natural air and fullness
• Adding weight to bass or kick with controlled, musical low-end shaping
• Sweetening overheads or room mics with smooth top-end lift
• Shaping a mix bus without killing dynamics or clarity

Their versatility makes them a smart choice for engineers working across genres—from folk and jazz to pop and modern rock.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need vintage tubes to get legendary tone. With the EM-PEQ and EM-EQ2, A-Designs has distilled the essence of the classic Pultec into reliable, solid-state formats that deliver all the musicality of the original—with tighter lows, cleaner highs, and zero tube drama.

Whether you're building a 500-series drum rig or upgrading your stereo mix bus chain, these EQs offer timeless tone with modern precision—at a fraction of the cost.