Neve® 88R LBEQ – High-Performance 500-Series Genuine 88RS Equaliser

OVERVIEW

The Neve® 88R LBEQ distils the legendary equalisation of the flagship 88RS console into a compact, high-performance 500-series module. Designed and hand-built in England, it faithfully reproduces the analogue EQ topology, circuit behaviour, and sonic integrity that have made the 88RS a reference in world-class studios such as Abbey Road, AIR Studios, and The Village. The result is an equaliser that delivers exceptional clarity, low phase shift, and musical control across the entire frequency spectrum.

Featuring four fully parametric bands with extensive frequency overlap, adjustable Q, and up to ±20 dB of gain per band, the 88R LBEQ excels at both subtle tonal shaping and precise corrective work. From authoritative low-end sculpting to detailed midrange definition and open, refined high-frequency air, each band responds smoothly and predictably, making it ideal for tracking, mixing, and mastering applications.

As part of Neve’s expanding 88R 500-series ecosystem, the 88R LBEQ pairs seamlessly with the 88R LB preamp and 88R LBC compressor to form a complete, authentic 88RS signal chain in a modular format. Whether used individually or as part of a full channel strip, the 88R LBEQ delivers uncompromised console-grade EQ performance for today’s modern hybrid workflows.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Flagship 88RS Equalisation, Refined for 500-Series Workflows

The 88R LBEQ condenses the core analogue EQ topology of the 88RS console into a streamlined 500-series format, retaining the circuit behaviour and sonic integrity that have made the flagship desk a reference point in world-class studios. From subtle tonal shaping to intricate frequency surgery, the module offers true console-grade flexibility thanks to its ±20 dB gain per band, extensive frequency overlap, and smoothly adjustable Q. Its musical response, low phase shift, and broad headroom echo its large-format big brother, bringing authentic 88RS behaviour to a modern, portable module.

Four Fully Parametric Bands for Total Tonal Authority

Low Band: Foundation, Weight, and Impact

With a sweepable range from 33 Hz to 440 Hz and ±20 dB of gain, the low band gives you absolute command over the bottom end.

Selectable standard or resonant shelving alongside wide or narrow bell curves allow you to add depth and punch to kick drums and bass instruments, tighten low-mid build-up, or cleanly carve space in dense mixes. Whether you want big, musical lows or precise control, this band delivers the foundation your mix needs.

Low-Mid Band: Warmth, Body, and Depth

Covering 120 Hz to 2 kHz with full control over gain and Q (0.3 to 7), this band is your tool for shaping the heart of a mix.

Enhance warmth and fullness in toms, brass, and guitars – or surgically remove unwanted boxiness, mud, and resonance. Its wide shaping capability makes it equally powerful for tone building and problem-solving.

High-Mid Band: Presence, Clarity, and Expression

Spanning 0.8 kHz to 9 kHz, the high-mid band brings definition and articulation exactly where the ear is most sensitive.

Dial in vocal presence, add bite to electric guitars, sharpen snare transients, or refine the intelligibility of spoken word. From gentle lift to precise focus, this is the band that places key elements forward in a mix with control and finesse.

High Band: Air, Shine, and High-End Precision

With a wide sweepable range from 1.5 kHz to 18 kHz and ±20 dB of gain, the high band lets you sculpt everything from crisp transient detail to open, airy brilliance.

Switchable standard or resonant shelves, plus bell options, give you the flexibility to add sheen to strings and overheads, smooth harshness, or polish entire mixes with subtle top-end refinement. It’s your finishing tool for clarity and sparkle without ever sounding brittle.

A New Benchmark for 500-Series Equalisation

The 88R LBEQ raises the bar for Neve’s 500-series lineup, building on the momentum of the acclaimed 88R LBC compressor and 88R LB pre-amp. Together, these modules deliver the workflow, tone, and unmistakable character of the flagship 88RS console – now in a modular format designed for modern hybrid studios.

Whether you’re making subtle tonal refinements or pushing into bold, creative sound sculpting, the 88R LBEQ provides a level of flexibility, musicality, and sonic integrity that stands apart in the 500-series market. It’s the true 88RS EQ experience, engineered for today’s creators.

Technical Performance Without Compromise

The 88R LBEQ delivers the precision and reliability expected of Neve’s flagship analogue designs.

FEATURES

• Genuine Neve® 88RS four-band fully parametric EQ circuitry
• Compact single-slot 500-series module
• Designed and hand-built in England
• Four fully parametric bands with extensive frequency overlap
• ±20 dB gain per band for broad shaping or surgical control
• Adjustable Q for wide musical curves or precise frequency focus
• Selectable bell and shelving options on low and high bands
• Exceptional headroom for clean, distortion-free operation
• Low phase shift and highly transparent analogue response
• Ideal for tracking, mixing, and mastering applications
• Seamless integration with 88R LB preamp and 88R LBC compressor
• Delivers true flagship 88RS console EQ in a portable modular format

TECHNICAL SPECS

General Specifications:

• True Neve 88RS 4-band Parametric Equaliser circuit
• 500-Series form factor
• VPR Alliance Specification

Audio Performance:

• Headroom: 27.2dBu @1kHz (0.1% THD)
• Distortion (THD+N): >0.004%
• General Noise: -88dBu (<-117dBu Bypassed)
• Frequency Response: > +/- 0.1dB
• Dynamic Range: >107dB
• Input Impedance: ≈24kΩ
• Output Impedance: ≈50Ω

Power Specifications:

• Max Draw: <145mA
• Surge: <145mA

Dimensions:

• Height – 132mm (5.25 inches)
• Width – 38mm (1.5 inches)
• Depth – 145mm (5.75 inches)

Weight: 0.57 kg (1.26 lbs)

DOWNLOADS

• User Manual