Tone controls do not serve the same purpose as an equalizer. Tone controls are good for quick and easy improvement of a particular recording. An equalizer is used to compensate for room and speaker deficiencies. Setting up an equalizer takes the better part of a day (unless your unit has an automatic equalization function, like the Behringer DEQ2496).
Tone controls? Sorry about the heresy.
I need tone controls! Too much of the music I listen to needs it. A lot of 70's, 80's, 90's, 00's rock. Some acoustic music. Who makes excellent preamps with tone controls OR what other box can I use that won't degrade the sound too much? Currently use a PS Audio 4.5, Adcom GFA-555II, JPW speakers.