Weiss EQ1 – the reference when it comes to digital mastering EQs. Available in four different models, including linear phase and dynamic versions.

The EQ1 is a two channel digital equalizer with seven parametric bands. It has digital inputs/outputs exclusively.

Basic EQ1 functions

The basic features are common to all four models, namely the seven identical parametric bands, i.e. all seven bands cover the entire audio frequency range. Each band has Boost/Cut, Frequency and Q/Slope knobs and operates in any of the following modes: High shelving, low shelving, peaking, high cut, low cut, bypass.

Controls, display

There are seven times three knobs in order to have “one knob per parameter” operation. The knobs are touch sensitive to switch the LCD to display the parameters of the touched band. The LCD shows the overall frequency response, the detailed parameter values and various status information.

Snapshots, MIDI, metering

Other basic features are an A/B compare memory, a 128 position snapshot bank with two additional banks for back-up (can also be dumped/recovered via MIDI), a peak meter with over indicators, MIDI control for each parameter, an overall bypass switch and an overall gain control, a channel ganging switch.

Signal processing, connectivity

The internal processing is done at 88.2 or 96 kHz in a 40 Bit floating-point format. A very low noise filter architecture optimized for audio is used. The digital input/output are in AES/EBU format on XLR connectors. The AES/EBU output can be POW-R dithered to 16, 20 or 24 Bits.

M/S mode

The EQ1 can be switched to M/S mode which is especially useful for the
dynamic model of the EQ1. Also see the article: “Stereo Shuffling: New Approach – Old Technique” by Michael Gerzon. Other specialties are variable slope shelving filters and very high Q (up to 650) peaking filters for notching out offending frequencies