Released in 1951

Pultec EQP-1 Program Equaliser

First introduced in 1951, the Pultec EQP-1 Program Equaliser was the first passive equaliser on the market. Upon its introduction, it changed the recording world forever, offering a new way to manipulate sound. The fact that Pultec equalisers in one form or another are still in use today, is extraordinary.

Released in 1955

Pultec MEQ-5 Mid-Range Equaliser

The Pultec MEQ-5 provides fine control over the “power region” (300 Hz to 5000 Hz), where most audio energy is focused and the ear is highly sensitive. Smooth handling of this range is crucial, as minor acoustic or equipment resonances can greatly affect sound clarity and listenability.

Released in 1956

Langevin EQ-258-A Program Equalizer

The Langevin EQ-258-A Program Equalizer is a rare 1950s passive EQ, offering selectable frequencies at 40Hz, 100Hz, 3kHz, 5kHz, 10kHz, and 15kHz, with up to +12dB boost and -16dB cut. Known for its smooth, musical tone and rugged build, it remains a prized tool for adding vintage character and tonal balance to recordings.

Released in 1961

Pultec EQP-1A Program Equaliser

The Pultec EQP-1A is a classic equaliser known for its warm, smooth sound, achieved through a unique design that allows simultaneous frequency boosting and cutting. Introduced in 1961, its tube-driven, passive circuitry adds depth and clarity, making it a favourite for enhancing bass and airy highs. Its “Pultec sound” remains a staple in studios for its natural, musical character.

Released in 1962

Lang PEQ-2 Program Equaliser

The Lang PEQ-2 Program Equaliser, released in the mid-20th century, was a groundbreaking tool for audio professionals, offering precise tonal shaping and reliability. Featuring non-drift components, high-Q toroidal coils, and a hermetically sealed design, it delivered low noise, low power consumption, and unmatched durability. Its versatile features, including multi-position frequency selectors, adjustable gain, and balanced/unbalanced operation, made it ideal for studios and broadcasts. A hallmark of innovation, the Lang PEQ-2 remains a revered piece of audio history, influencing modern equaliser designs.

Released in 1963

Altec 9063A Equaliser

The Altec 9063A is a vintage passive equaliser from the 1960s, offering precise tonal shaping with boost and attenuation options. Known for its simplicity and robust design, it remains highly sought after in the second-hand market for mixing and mastering applications.

Released in 1970

Urei 565 Filter Set

The Urei 565 Filter Set introduces to the recording studio and motion picture sound department an effective tool for ‘saving’ problem tracks, and for creating innovative special effects.

Released in 1971

ITI MES-430 Parametric Equaliser

The ITI MES-430 was the first commercially available parametric equaliser, a design once thought impossible to achieve, created by the brilliant George Massenburg.

Released in 1978

MXR Thirty-One Band EQ Graphic Equaliser

The MXR Thirty-One Band EQ is a professional-grade graphic EQ introduced in the late 1970s, offering precise tonal control for studio, live sound, and broadcast applications. With 31 frequency bands spaced one-third of an octave apart and a ±12 dB adjustment range, it allows for detailed sound shaping, feedback reduction, and room correction. Its rugged 19-inch rackmount design, high-quality faders, and connectivity options – including 6.35 mm jacks and XLRs – ensure durability and compatibility.

Released in 1978

MXR Dual Fifteen Band EQ Graphic Equaliser

The MXR Dual Fifteen Band EQ offered precise two-channel frequency control with bands set two-thirds of an octave apart for greater accuracy, particularly in the midrange. Each channel had its own level control, with a ±12dB range per band, housed in a rugged 19-inch rackmount design with quarter-inch connections.

Equalisers