EQ 73 by IK Multimedia preamp and equalizer plugin interface

EQ 73: Class-A Preamp and Equalizer Plugin by IK Multimedia

EQ 73 is a plugin from IK Multimedia that models the classic British preamp and 3-band equalizer known as the "73" module. It is built to add warmth, color and character to tracks.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

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01Overview

EQ 73 recreates a rackmount preamp and equalizer that was first introduced in 1970 as a standalone module and later originated in a large-format British mixing console. IK Multimedia developed the plugin to reproduce the original's gain stages, circuit designs and EQ curves. The developer says it also models the interaction between preamp behavior, saturation and EQ, which it describes as the defining trait of the original unit. The preamp can add grit or distortion, so the plugin works beyond gentle coloration.

Best for

Vocal coloration
Drum bus warmth
Bass tone shaping
Guitar tone
Adding grit to tracks
Overhead air boost

Developer: IK Multimedia
Category: EQ
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Models the classic 3-band British preamp and equalizer
Modeled gain stages, circuit designs and EQ curves
Preamp saturation and preamp/EQ interaction modeled together
Preamp can add grit or distortion
Presence band for shaping the body of a track
High-end air and low-end punch boosts
Available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats
64-bit plugin for Windows and macOS

03In depth

Sound and Character of the Class-A Preamp and EQ

The original hardware is known for a thick, Class-A sound rich in harmonics and fullness, and EQ 73 aims to carry that character into the DAW. IK Multimedia says the preamp saturation and the preamp-to-EQ interaction are modeled together rather than as separate stages.

The 3-band EQ includes a presence band alongside high and low shelving control. According to the developer, high-end air and low-end punch can be boosted without harshness or boominess, and the presence band helps shape the body of a track.

Using EQ 73 on Individual Sources

IK Multimedia describes EQ 73 as suitable for a wide range of sources. It names kicks, snares, overheads, bass, guitars and vocals as typical targets.

The preamp can be pushed for grit or distortion, which adds a second tonal option alongside equalization. Use the EQ for broad tonal shaping and the preamp when you want the source to pick up harmonic color.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	IK Multimedia
Type	Plugin
Category	EQ
Formats	VST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is EQ 73?

EQ 73 is a plugin by IK Multimedia that models a classic British preamp and 3-band equalizer. The original hardware was first released as a rackmount module in 1970.

Which formats and operating systems does EQ 73 support?

EQ 73 is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats. It runs on Windows and macOS as a 64-bit plugin.

What do I need to use EQ 73?

EQ 73 needs a host that supports one of its plugin formats. On Windows it requires an ASIO-compatible sound card, and on macOS it requires macOS 10.15 or newer, or macOS 11 or newer for Apple Silicon. Both platforms require 8 GB of RAM, 9 GB of hard drive space and an OpenGL 2 compatible graphics adapter. An internet connection is required for the Custom Shop operations.