The Best Vintage Equalizer For 2024

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
Dbx 231s Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Dbx 231s Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer

The 1/3-octave constant Q frequency bands offer a wide range of frequencies for your desired tweak, and the dual outputs allow customized adjustments for each output. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Behringer ULTRAGRAPH PRO FBQ1502HD 15-Band Stereo Graphic Equalizer

The ultrafast parametric EQ allows the user to either boost or cuts any frequency in the audio spectrum and in real-time, without disrupting the audio signal's shape. Read Review

3. Best For Bass Control: ART EQ355 Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer

This machine offers adjustable high-pass and low-pass filters, variable input level controls, signal clip level indicators, and a ground lift switch. Read Review

4. Best Outputs: EMB Professional Sound System EB631EQ Graphic Equalizer

All outputs of this unit come with a phase reverse switch, so each output of each band can be adjusted freely to your liking. Read Review

Nowadays, as retro and vintage audio setup begins booming among audiophiles and music lovers, vintage equalizers are becoming more and more popular. Some people even consider them a must-have for an audio system.

When you add this unit to your home, you will receive the exact adjustment of many frequencies in the signal. These devices can easily rectify sound quality issues brought on by your listening environment, as long as they are used properly.

So, in this blog, we will check out some of the best vintage equalizers. If you love retro devices, you can definitely find something here. Our Dbx 231s Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer is an all-power unit with a 31-band frequency range, so it is ideal for all situations, including studio recording, band performances, and more.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Dbx 231s Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer
Our Score:
9.9
Dbx
  • Front panel bypass switch
  • 4-Segment LED ladders for monitoring output levels
  • Dual 31-band, 1/3-octave constant Q frequency bands
  • Switchable boost/cut ranges of 6 or 12 dB
  • Outputs: ¼” TRS and male XLR (pin 2 Hot)
  • Inputs: ¼” TRS and female XLR (pin 2 Hot)
  • 12 dB input gain range
  • Ultra-low noise 4580 operational amplifiers for highest signal integrity
  • Additional low-cut filter removes unwanted frequencies, e.g. floor rumble
  • Professional 15-band stereo graphic equalizer for live and studio applications
  • Revolutionary FBQ Feedback Detection system instantly reveals critical frequencies and can also be used as audio analyzer
  • Dedicated mono subwoofer output with adjustable crossover frequency
TOP Choice #3 ART EQ355 Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer
Our Score:
9.6
ART
  • Constant Q circuitry 20mm center detent sliders Selectable boost/cut range of 6dB or 12dB Balanced XLR and 1/4" Unbalanced RCA input and output connections Adjustable high-pass and low-pass filters Variable input level controls Signal clip level indicators Ground lift switch Internal power supply Selectable line voltage switch Rugged, all-steel chassis 2U rackspace required
  • 24dB/Unkwitz-Riley filters (the professional standard) - Stereo / Mono status indication LEO lights, indicating that the mode selection unit
  • TRS or XLR balanced inputs and outputs differential / Choice of stereo or the sum of the synthesis of left and right channel subwoofer
  • X10 range are two-channel selector switch / Two channels have 40Hz high pass filter (low cut)
  • All outputs with phase reverse switch / The output of all bands can be independently adjusted average
  • The SoundGraph6102 features the high quality 2-Channel 31-Band equalizer with LED illuminated faders, making the SoundGraph6102 a welcome addition to any touring rack or for home studio.
  • 12-digit LED output metering & input gain control allows easy adjust levels.
  • High-quality components like the ultra low noise audio operational amplifiers for outstanding sound performance & the balanced inputs and outputs with 1/4 inches TRS & XLR connectors.
  • Outstanding reliability is guaranteed with the high-quality LED illuminated faders, detent potentiometers and illuminated switches. The DJ Tech SoundGraph6102 puts all your music's best attributes in the spotlight.
  • Accurate 6-segment LED input/output meters and Level control for precise level indication
  • Additional Low-cut filter removes unwanted frequencies, e. g. floor rumble
  • Revolutionary FBQ Feedback Detection system instantly reveals critical frequencies and can also be used as Audio Analyzer
  • Ultra-compact 9.5" graphic equalizer for studio and stage applications
  • High-quality illuminated faders, potentiometers and illuminated switches for long-term reliability
  • Tuner | CD | TAPE | DVD inputs!
  • NOTE: Refer the User Manual before use which is highly essential.
  • LEDs in all sliders, Two Line inputs and dual tape monitor loops
  • Ten Bands of graphic EQ per Channel
  • Multi-colored spectrum analyzer display shows the output of the system
  • Power supply MAX:20W
  • Control Range: Selectable +/-12dB 0r +/-6dB. Input Impedance: 50k ohms. Output Impedance: 600 ohms. Maximum Output Level: +21dBLevel Control: +/- 10 dB. Signal to Noise: >93 dB. Distortion: 0.005%.
  • Frequency Centers: 20 Hz, 25 Hz, 31.5 Hz, 40 Hz, 50 Hz, 63 Hz, 80 Hz, 100 Hz, 125 Hz, 160 Hz, 200 Hz, 250 Hz, 315 Hz, 400 Hz, 500 Hz, 630 Hz, 800 Hz, 1 kHz, 1.25 kHz, 1.5 kHz, 2 kHz, 2.5 kHz
  • Rockville REQ231 Dual 31 Band 1/3 Octave Graphic Equalizer With Sub-Output. Dual channel (31 bands per channel). Variable stage low and high cut filters.
  • Bypass switch with status LED. Balanced XLR input/output. Subwoofer out. Channels: 2 (stereo). Connectors: XLR balanced inputs and outputs. Bands: 31 per channel.
  • 1/3 octave filter sets (ISO centers). 20 Hz to 20 kHz effective equalization range. Constant Q filters. Selectable 6dB or 12dB cut or boost range. Output level LEDs (-10 to +17 dB).
9 Nady GEQ-215 Graphic Equalizer
Our Score:
8.5
Nady
  • Country of Origin : China
  • Package Dimensions: 54.2 L x 9.6 H x 24.6 W (centimeters)
  • Package Weight: 5.51 pounds
  • Four segment LED bargraph for BOTH Gain Reduction AND Output Level^Status LEDs offer visual feedback for all settings on the front panel
  • Increases S/N ratio by up to 20dB
  • Inputs: ¼” TRS, female XLR (pin 2 hot), and barrier terminal strip
  • Patent-pending PeakPlus(TM) Limiter threshold range from 0dBu to +24dBu (off) can transparently tame wildest hits or subtlest nuances of any signal
  • Includes: 1x dbx 1231; 1x AC power cord; 1x Operator's Manual; 1x Registration Card; 4x rack mount screws and washers
  • Patent-pending Peak Plus Limiter threshold range from 0dBu to +24dBu (off) can transparently tame the wildest hits or the subtlest nuances of any signal
  • Four segment LED bar graph for BOTH Gain Reduction AND Output Level Status LEDs offer visual feedback for all settings on the front panel
  • Revolutionary instant encode/decode Type III Noise Reduction in-circuit at the push of a button
  • Increases S/N ratio by up to 20dB
  • Outputs: ¼” TRS, male XLR (pin 2 hot), and barrier terminal strip
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best vintage equalizer?

You may know that shopping is one of the essential activities in a human being’s life. Selecting the best product will affect your daily life. However, which factors can make this purchase effective? If you are looking for best vintage equalizer for your demands, you will waste your time with incorrect data. But it would be best if you weren’t so nervous about that. We have a group of experts to research best vintage equalizer, and they’ve given reliable information.

There are lots of essential things you should keep in mind. On the other, just some of them are most focused. Here are the critical factors related to buying best vintage equalizer you may want:

Bands

You can achieve finer control with more bands. Every band corresponds to a specific frequency, however, it is important that you know which frequencies each one represents, since it may vary depending on your equalizer. The definition of a middle-range in an equalizer may differ from the one used by another.

Bipolar Switching

The unique system uses twice the number of quadrants than traditional systems to increase voltage output.

Parametric Equalizers

These equalizers are a step beyond the more standard graphic equalizers. They allow for more adjustment in terms of bandwidth control and primary frequency.

Adjustment Range

Decibels are often used to measure ranges. The higher the range, the greater the ability to reduce or increase certain ranges.

Sound Processors

The equalizer also has a higher end part that adjusts its settings based on noise in your car.

Spectrum Analyzer

They are used on higher-end equipment as they provide real-time measurement of the audio signal. These allow you to see the frequencies of your frequency.

Crossovers

These controls control lower and higher frequency that could disrupt music. You can reach more frequencies if the decibel range is larger.

Filters

Some frequency ranges can be amplified, passed or reduced by audio filters. This is done by using a frequency-dependent amplifier circuit. An audio equalizer can adjust your music and remove or modify certain sounds with the filters.

FAQs

What Is The Physical Size Of The EQs?

Although this may sound obvious, I have seen many people make the same mistake. If you have a rack case or console, make sure it has sufficient space for the new EQs. Make sure you measure the equipment before buying. Then compare the measurements to your rack/console. Engineers these days are working on a tight budget and needing minimal equipment so any additional weight or size can be problematic.

Do I Need An Audio Equalizer?

It's a difficult question that will be influenced by how obsessed you are about music. While the average person won't think about equalizing music, audiophiles may. A newbie should take it slow, particularly if creating or recording music or mixing songs. A slight tweak can make a huge difference in the sound and it may not be for the best.

Do I Need To Equalize With Expensive Speakers?

You don't have to buy the most expensive speakers to use your audio equalizer. You can get just as much value from middle-range speakers as you will with high-end ones. Be careful with equalizing. If you aren't careful, your equalizer could cause damage to your speakers. You could damage your speakers if you have accidentally set the output level to the wrong place. You can check for damage by playing the sound through your speakers at a higher volume. The speaker may be damaged if the volume is too low. Modern speakers are capable of handling short-term distortion. Listen carefully.

Should I Use The Presets?

Presets are great for novice users. The presets allow you to choose between rock and metal as well as any other musical style. These are not meant to be used for guidance when first using an equalizer.

What Is My Budget?

Graphic equalizers are available for purchase from $50 to $25,000, depending on the number of channels and features included. The price of graphic equalizers will rise significantly if you require more channels than 8. You will also need to have the ability to adjust all your parameters (high pass, low pass, volume, etc.) using your console without having to move faders. Expect to spend between $200 and $25,000

What Is Equalization?

Equalization, from a musical perspective, is the act of changing the frequencies and sounds of a song. You've likely heard most of these frequencies at one time or another. Sound frequencies can be described as terms such as bass and treble. There are many instruments that can be found in any musical composition. The music might sound fantastic to the casual listener, but it could sound off for professionals. Audio equalizers are used to remove or filter certain frequencies in order to create a perfect harmony.

Will This EQ Be Rack-mounted Or Used On A Console

You can buy all of the PMQs listed above in rack-mountable 1U or 2U models. You can purchase multiple units of this type at one time, but it will cost more. However, you could order a customized-fitted box and put them all together. There are two types of MBCs: analog or digital. Make sure that your console can support an analog model. Although not essential, it is best to purchase equipment that works well together.

Overall, the statistics we described here are not all of them. Instead, we always freshen it up continually as the data is updated and available. It would be best to remember things we mentioned above, including brand’s value, product’s value, product’s highlights, important specs, customer ratings & reviews. 

Our readers, you guys, are always respected and treated with top priority so that you are supposed to receive the most up-to-date information on our site. You should feel free to contact us for support with the product’s problems. Thanks for reading, and we wish you a happy shopping.


0 ratings

About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.