The History of Pultec EQ
The Pultec EQ, also known as the Pultec Equalizer, has a rich history in the recording industry. It all started in 1951 when Gene Shenk and Ollie Summerland founded Pulse Techniques (Pultec) and introduced the first passive program equalizer, the EQP-1, to the market . This groundbreaking piece of equipment revolutionized the recording industry with its simple controls and unique sound.Over the years, Pultec designed gear has remained popular among recording and mixing engineers. The EQP-1A, a modified version of the original EQP-1, became particularly famous. It featured modified low-frequency boost and attenuation response curves, additional peak boost frequencies, and high-frequency shelf boost curves. The EQP-1A has been widely used on mix buses to apply a smiley face EQ curve across the entire mix and add a warm tube glow.
Why is Pultec Such a Popular EQ?
Pultec EQs have gained immense popularity for several reasons. One of the main factors is their unique sound and musicality. The Pultec EQ works as an overall tone shaper, allowing engineers to add sheen, air, and weight to their mixes. It is known for its ability to enhance the low end and add warmth to vocals and instruments.Another reason for the popularity of Pultec EQs is their broad EQ curves. Even when boosting frequencies below 100Hz, the boost reaches up to 700Hz, resulting in a wide and smooth frequency response. This characteristic gives Pultec EQs a distinct sound that many engineers find pleasing and versatile.
Pultec as a Brand Name and EQ Type
The success and influence of Pultec EQs have led to the brand name becoming synonymous with a specific type of equalizer. The term “Pultec” is often used to describe EQs that share similar characteristics, such as broad EQ curves and the ability to shape the overall tone of a mix.
The Pultec Smile Curve
The Pultec Smile Curve refers to the characteristic EQ curve created by the Pultec EQ when boosting and cutting frequencies simultaneously. One popular technique, known as the low-end trick, involves boosting and cutting a specific frequency to create a boost at a different frequency with a dip in between. For example, boosting at 30Hz and cutting at the same frequency can create a boost at 80Hz with a dip around 200Hz, resulting in a pleasing curve for bass drums.
Tips for Using a Pultec EQ
When using a Pultec EQ, it’s important to trust your ears and rely on the musicality of the EQ rather than getting caught up in detailed visual information. Here are a few tips for using a Pultec EQ effectively:
Experiment with the low-frequency boost and attenuation controls to add weight and warmth to vocals and instruments.
Use the high-frequency controls to add sheen and enhance the presence of your mix.
Try the low-end trick by simultaneously boosting and cutting a specific frequency to create a pleasing curve for instruments like bass drums.
Don’t be afraid to switch between different bands and frequencies to find the sound you’re looking for.
Pultec EQ Replicas
Due to the popularity and scarcity of original Pultec EQs, many manufacturers have created replicas and emulations of the classic EQP-1A. Companies like Cartec, Tube-Tech, and Manley offer EQP-1A clones that aim to capture the original Pultec sound. These replicas provide an affordable alternative for those who want to achieve the distinctive Pultec sound without the high price tag of vintage units.
Pultec EQ in Mixing and Mastering
Pultec EQs are widely used in both mixing and mastering processes. In mixing, they can be used to shape the overall tone of a mix, enhance specific frequencies, and add warmth and character to individual tracks. In mastering, Pultec EQs are often employed to add the final polish to a mix, balancing frequencies and adding a touch of vintage analog sound.In conclusion, the Pultec EQ has a storied history in the recording industry and remains a popular choice among engineers for its unique sound and musicality. Its broad EQ curves, the ability to shape the overall tone of a mix, and the famous Pultec Smile Curve make it a versatile tool in both mixing and mastering. Whether using an original unit or a replica, the Pultec EQ continues to be a beloved piece of equipment in studios worldwide.