The X-Rack XR425 4000 E EQ Module reproduces the legendary sonic signature of the SSL 4000 E console channel strip that featured so heavily on countless recordings. This is THE sound your have heard on so many hit records of the last 25 years. In fact, according to Billboard magazine, this EQ has been used on three quarters of all hits since its introduction in 1979. The XR425 module is based on the E Series EQ Module and features both of the EQ characteristics found on the classic 4000 E; the uniquely smooth Brown' EQ response characteristics and the sharper Black' response curves.
The E Series EQ Module features two different EQs found on editions of the console produced between 1979 and 1987. Each EQ has unique response curves and tonal character. They are distinguished by the colors used on the LF knob caps so the two flavors have become known as the Brown' and Black' EQs. On the E Series EQ Module you can switch between these two different flavors of EQ that have been loved by generations of professional producers. The Brown' EQ, featured on the discontinued SSL E-Signature Channel Strip, is now uniquely available on the E Series EQ Module.
A little SSL 4000 E Series console history
The 4000 E was the first production console to include EQ (see #180297) and dynamics processors on every channel, as well a stereo bus compressor in the console's center-section (see Stereo Bus Compressor Module (#180241). The console quickly took the lead in music production when engineers discovered that the combination of these three features enabled them to create drums track with more punch, and put vocals, guitars, and bass in your face.
A little SSL EQ history
Prior to 1987, SSL used the color of the Low Frequency EQ knob caps to indicate which type of EQ was fitted. All consoles were custom built and could feature different combinations of equalizing. The following color codes apply: E Series BROWN: The original SSL EQ fitted to all consoles prior to the summer of 1985. Despite the rumors these equalizers only came in one version. The EQ card was called the 02'.
E Series ORANGE: The infamous EQP equalizer. This was a variation on the Brown EQ with controls simulating the curves of a valve type EQ. Very few were sold. This card was named the 132'.
E Series BLACK: The last version of the standard E series equalizer. It evolved in the early 1980s from discussions with many top engineers, including Sir George Martin, and proved very popular. The EQ card was called the 242'.
G Series: With the arrival of the G Series console in 1987 the color coding was abandoned and the classic SSL end cap color scheme used today was adopted. First introduced in 1987 the original G Series EQ introduced Q characteristics which were proportional to gain settings and had a degree of over shoot when boosting and under shoot when cutting.
The current generation of SuperAnalogue console EQ (featured on Duality, AWS 900 + SE & the X-Rack EQ module) are switchable between EQ characteristics that offer either the E Series Black' EQ or the G Series EQ.
Note: Requires and SSL X-Rack (182047) to function.
Features:
- Immortal SSL 4000 E Series Circuitry
- Black-242 And Brown-02 Twin EQ Design
- Bell Curve Option On HF And LF
- Fully Parametric LMF And HMF With Q
- Based On Classic 611e Console Channel Strip
