Definitive Passive Mastering EQ
The second-generation PASSEQ 2-channel mastering equalizer is the definitive evolution of SPL's acclaimed passive EQ technology. One of the most powerful passive EQs ever made, the first-generation PASSEQ was the first passive equalizer ever to offer high, mid, and low bands with separate boost and cut controls per band, each individually selectable at 12 frequencies. With a total of 36 boost and 36 cut frequencies, that's close to three million possible frequency curves! Today's PASSEQ is even more impressive, updated with a bevy of powerful new refinements and features requested by pro mastering engineers.
Passive power
The PASSEQ has the same number of boost and cut frequencies as its predecessor; however, with an ear toward more musical results, the individual frequency selections have been tweaked and the Q-factor has been optimized for each selectable frequency. New features include Air band, a stepped output control ranging from -10dB to +10dB, and a mid cut band that now begins at 200Hz. Under the hood, SPL exchanged capacitor arrays in the filters with custom-designed single caps, bandwidth-optimized per frequency range. Sweetwater has long admired the precision build quality of SPL equipment, and the PASSEQ is no exception. From the scrumptious feel of its stepped ALPS potentiometers to its awesome sound-shaping prowess and flawless sonic performance, the SPL PASSEQ is a formidable piece for professional mastering studios.
The benefits of 120V Rail Technology
SPL's 120V Rail Technology lets the PASSEQ 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 PASSEQ Passive Mastering EQ Features:
- Next-generation SPL passive EQ technology
- High, mid, and low bands; each with independent frequency section and separate boost and cut controls
- 12 selectable frequencies per band
- Frequency selections and Q have been optimized for more musical results
- HF+ Band extended upward with the addition of 25kHz and 35kHz Air band frequencies
- Mid Range Cut expanded to lower frequencies (starting at 200Hz)
- Detented output level control provides an expanded range of ±10dB for flexible downstream gainstaging
- Easy recall with stepped 41-detent pots for frequency selection, Boost/Cut, Q, and Output
- Highest-quality, precision-detented ALPS RK27 big blue potentiometers
- SPL 120V Rail Technology for superior technical and sonic performance
