EQ 81 is an EQ plugin from IK Multimedia, a discrete preamp and equalizer modeled on the EQ 73 with four independent bands, high and low pass filters, and an analog-style signal path.
EQ 81 is part of IK Multimedia's T-RackS plugin range. The developer describes it as an evolution of the EQ 73, with a preamp circuit that interacts with the equalizer section in a way the developer says was modeled as faithfully as possible to the original hardware. The EQ section offers four independent bands, made up of high and low shelving filters and two midrange peaking filters, along with high and low pass filters for more precise corrections. It is available as a 64-bit plugin in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats.
IK Multimedia says the EQ 81 is based on a classic British hardware unit and keeps its warm, analog tone. The developer notes that special attention went into matching the EQ curves so the plugin sounds natural and musical.
The developer also highlights the interaction between the preamp circuit and the EQ section, which it says is modeled more closely than in other emulations of this classic design.
The EQ section has four independent bands: high and low shelving, plus two midrange peaking filters. The two midrange bands can be switched to high Q for more selective cuts and boosts.
The two outer shelving bands can be switched to peaking mode for more articulate shaping of the frequency spectrum. High and low pass filters are included for corrective work on individual tracks.
Midrange-heavy sources such as vocals, acoustic guitars and electric guitars are a typical fit, according to the developer, because the midrange bands allow precise tailoring of key frequencies.
The developer also says the low shelf adds fullness and punch without boominess, and the high shelf adds air. It lists drums, bass, piano and strings as additional source material.
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 |
EQ 81 is a discrete preamp and equalizer plugin from IK Multimedia, based on the earlier EQ 73 design. It has four EQ bands plus high and low pass filters.
EQ 81 is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats, all 64-bit, on Windows and macOS.
On Mac, it requires a 64-bit system with an Apple M1 or Intel Core i5 processor, 8 GB of RAM, macOS 10.15 or newer (macOS 11 or newer for Apple Silicon), 9 GB of hard drive space and an OpenGL 2 compatible graphics adapter. On Windows, it requires an Intel Core i5 or equivalent, 8 GB of RAM, Windows 10 (64-bit) or newer, 9 GB of hard drive space, an ASIO compatible sound card and an OpenGL 2 compatible graphics adapter. An internet connection is required.
