Analog Domain EQs

the Rives PARC is the best I have heard in the analog domain. however, it's limited just by that fact (not digital.) For room correction with EQ and crossover thrown in, for about the same $, check out the DEQX. www.deqx.com Yes, it's digital, but doesn't sound like it. Do you have a CD player? Then you already have digital going on so don't worry about the 'tubed-component chain'. the DEQX can take digital in and offers digital out if desired.

-Ed

hi Lefty-

I forget offhand -it's on their site I think. I know it can take digital in in various rates, and I believe it does A->D (for analog source inputs) @ at least 24/96, maybe higher. It's software upgradable so pretty future proof (as much as any digital piece can be.).

will let you know how it works out when mine comes in (soon).

-Ed

Will be between source and amps - it has the option of a built-in volume control/preamp, which I'll be getting with mine. So, ultimately it functions as 3 or 4 separate pieces in one: preamp, crossover, speaker EQ, room EQ, ( and upsampler) and can also convert single ended to differential balanced (in or out) if need be.

will post more when it arrives and I have time to configure it.

-Ed

" I don't want a digital EQ in my signal chain if there is hi-res source material playing. "

IMNSHO, Get over it. It's a farce to think that you can hear the difference resampling would make. Don't obsess over minutae like this (typical audiophilia...we are all guilty at times of it)... just listen and then judge. Blind if possible. Who's to say the analog domain EQ's sound better? They undoubtedly have colorations of their own.

As an FYI, Pro EQ's are designed usually for different signal levels than consumer gear, I believe.

Leftitself: gain is usually not recommended. most EQ users live by the credo 'cut only'. Don't try to fill in dips...

Digital Parametric with Q to 1/10 octave or better is the only way to go, IMHO. Treat the room as best you can first.

-Ed