Using The PEQ-2A Vintage Program EQ
The PEQ-2A is a Vintage Pultec inspired EQ available as an LV2 plugin for linux Digital Audio Workstations. This article details some of the signature sounds for these types of EQ including the Pultec 'low-end trick' .
The Pultec 'low-end trick'
Vintage EQs such as those by Pultec often have separate controls for low-end boost and cut. This makes it possible to apply the boost and cut simultaneously. As the controls act on a slightly different range of frequencies, the effect is to boost the low-end and at the same time reduce some of the low-mid range. This emphasizes the bass, in a very tight and controlled manner, giving more 'kick' without losing detail. Setting the EQ in this way is often known as the Pultec 'low-end trick'.
Emulating the low-end trick with the PEQ-2A
Like the Pultec EQs, the PEQ-2A also has separate low frequency boost and attenuate controls, making it possible to replicate one of the 'signature' sounds for this type of EQ. More information about the controls and their functions can be found here.
Set the Low Frequency selector switch to 30Hz initially - it may be necessary to switch to 60 or even 100Hz depending
on the program material.
Next select the required amount of low frequency gain, by adjusting the 'Boost' control. On its own this will provide quite a broad increase in bass.
Finally, add a similar amount of low frequency cut by adjusting the 'Atten' control. As the control is increased, the 'dip' in the low-mid frequency range becomes more pronounced. The effect is to produce a much tighter bass boost without losing detail.
This effect can be applied either to a drum track, or across a final mix. It can also be used to enhance some acoustic instruments, giving them more 'body' or 'weight' without losing clarity.
Download the PEQ-2A and try it out for yourself here
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