D.W. Fearn M-Series: Precision Mastering with Class-A Tube Character

A New Generation of D.W. Fearn Analogue Processing

For decades, D.W. Fearn has built a reputation around hand-crafted, all-tube professional audio equipment designed to bring musicality, depth and character to demanding recording environments. The new M-Series takes that philosophy into a dedicated mastering environment, combining the unmistakable character of Class-A tube processing with precision control and modern studio workflows.

The VT-5M Stereo Mastering EQ and VT-9M Stereo Mastering Compressor are designed for engineers who want the benefits of premium analogue processing without sacrificing accuracy, repeatability or control.

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VT-5M: Musical Tonal Control

The VT-5M brings D.W. Fearn‘s classic passive LC equalization approach into a precision stereo mastering format. Its combination of custom-made inductors, transformer-coupled circuitry and eight 6072A dual triodes delivers smooth, highly musical frequency shaping while retaining the headroom and clarity expected from a professional mastering processor.

With dedicated low-cut, low-boost, mid-cut, high-boost and high-cut sections, plus adjustable high-frequency bandwidth and gain trim, the VT-5M can be used for subtle tonal refinement or more pronounced shaping. Precision stepped controls and true stereo operation make it equally at home on mastering sessions and mix buses where repeatability and accurate stereo tracking matter.

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VT-9M: Transparent Dynamic Control

Designed as a true stereo mastering compressor, the VT-9M combines an all-tube Class-A signal path with modern Pulse Width Modulation gain control. This combination provides smooth, controlled compression while retaining the harmonic character and headroom associated with D.W. Fearn‘s tube-based designs.

The VT-9M also brings a mastering-focused workflow to the rack, with fully stepped controls, selectable sidechain high-pass filtering and an adjustable Shape control. Engineers can move from gentle, transparent levelling to more assertive dynamic control, while true VU metering provides clear monitoring of output, stereo sum and gain reduction.

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Two Processors, One Analogue Philosophy

Although the VT-5M and VT-9M perform very different jobs, they share the same underlying philosophy: carefully engineered analogue processing, Class-A tube circuitry, transformer coupling, precision controls and meticulous hand construction.

Together, they form a powerful mastering toolkit. The VT-5M can establish the tonal balance and add musical analogue character, while the VT-9M provides controlled dynamics and cohesion. Used individually or as part of a complete analogue chain, both processors are designed to help engineers make precise decisions while retaining the feel and depth of high-quality analogue processing.

Hand-Crafted in the USA

The M-Series represents D.W. Fearn‘s boutique approach to professional audio equipment. Rather than mass production, each unit is meticulously engineered, wired, burned-in and rigorously tested before leaving the workshop.

For mastering engineers, producers and professional studios looking beyond software processing, the VT-5M and VT-9M offer a combination of precision, musicality and hands-on analogue control designed to become long-term additions to a serious studio.

Explore the D.W. Fearn M-Series

The D.W. Fearn VT-5M Stereo Mastering EQ and VT-9M Stereo Mastering Compressor bring together classic tube engineering and modern precision for today’s mastering environment.

👉 Explore both products on our website and discover what D.W. Fearn‘s next-generation analogue processing can bring to your studio. 👇