EQ PG by IK Multimedia 10-band graphic equalizer plugin interface

EQ PG: Discrete 10-Band Graphic Equalizer Plugin by IK Multimedia

EQ PG is a 10-band graphic equalizer and preamp plugin by IK Multimedia, modeled on a classic American discrete-circuit console EQ. It is built for making broad tonal adjustments across large parts of the spectrum.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit
AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique
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01Overview

EQ PG was originally designed as a variation on the three- and four-band console EQs in the same family. It keeps the all-discrete signal path and proportional Q design of the EQ PA and EQ PB modules, but uses a ten-band graphic layout instead of their semi-parametric approach. The ten vertical sliders make it quick to see and set a curve. The plugin also includes the same preamp circuit found in the other EQ models, with an added transformer stage for warmth and low-frequency harmonic content.

Best for

  • Broad tonal shaping
  • Snare low-end boost
  • Vocal top-end opening
  • Bass saturation in mixes
  • Lo-fi vocal processing
  • Drum bus grit
Developer
IK Multimedia
Category
EQ
Store
Plugin Boutique
02Key features

What you get

  • Ten-band graphic equalizer with vertical sliders
  • Discrete signal path and proportional Q design
  • Custom op-amp circuit based on the original hardware
  • Output transformer modeling for analog warmth
  • Integrated preamp with hard-clipped saturation at high levels
  • Reciprocal bands with fixed frequencies for undoing edits
  • Available as VST3, VST2, AU and AAX
03In depth

Sound Character and Graphic Control

IK Multimedia says the core circuitry is based on the same custom op-amp used in its parametric siblings, so the sonic character carries over. The graphic layout is the main difference. Each of the ten bands sits at a fixed frequency, and the sliders show the curve at a glance.

Boosting or cutting several bands at once is the intended way to make large changes. The developer gives examples such as adding low end to a thin snare or opening up a dull vocal.

Because the bands are reciprocal and fixed in frequency, the plugin can also reverse a boost or cut applied earlier to the same material.

Preamp Saturation and Use Cases

At higher settings, the preamp imparts a hard-clipped character. IK Multimedia says this distortion, combined with the filter bank, can help a track stand out in a dense mix. The developer describes the results as ranging from a bass track that cuts through a mid-heavy mix to clean vocals that sound grungy and lo-fi, and a drum kit that gets much rougher.

The plugin is a complement to the EQ PA and EQ PB parametric modules, so it can be paired with them in the same chain.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

DeveloperIK Multimedia
TypePlugin
CategoryEQ
FormatsVST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systemsWindows, macOS
Architecture64-bit
05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is EQ PG?

EQ PG is a 10-band graphic equalizer and preamp plugin from IK Multimedia. It is modeled on a discrete, proportional Q console EQ design and is intended for broad adjustments across the spectrum.

What formats and operating systems does EQ PG support?

EQ PG is listed in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats, running on Windows and macOS in 64-bit. The Windows build requires an ASIO-compatible sound card.

What do I need to run EQ PG?

On Mac, the minimum is 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, the minimum is an Intel Core i5 or equivalent, 8 GB of RAM, Windows 10 64-bit or newer, 9 GB of storage and an ASIO-compatible sound card. An internet connection is required for Custom Shop operations.

How is EQ PG different from the EQ PA and EQ PB modules?

EQ PG uses a ten-band graphic layout, while EQ PA and EQ PB use semi-parametric three- and four-band designs. IK Multimedia says the circuitry and sonic character are shared across the family.

07Developer

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