When creating art, no artist wants to have a small palate to choose from. That’s why when Geoff Tanner set out to create a four band EQ, he made sure that the user could make sweeping changes or the most subtle of tweaks. The design has resulted in an EQ that provides warmth and punch, but also can provide that final touch that can only be found in a pure analog path.
The GT4-2 EQ features 30 selectable frequencies ranging from 33Hz to 15K. As expected, the GT4-2 is Class A discrete and features balanced transformer input and output. The transformers are made in the United Kingdom to Geoff Tanner’s exacting specifications by the old Marinar crew.
Geoff’s design takes that classic British EQ sound that we all know and love and expands its usability by adding some of his own touches. Let’s look at the high and low end shelving. There are two gain modes to choose from. The low gain mode gives that feel of classic EQ shelving, 8dB of boost and cut. The high gain mode gives the user 18dB for grand adjustments that you may need to do. Your ribbon microphone just a little too dark? Open up the top end at shelving starting at 3.3K! Love that mid-range of your kick drum but it doesn’t have enough low end for you? Using the high gain mode to boost the lows, you will be in bass heaven in no time at all.
The mid-range is where any EQ can show its true power. The mid-range frequencies feature THREE selectable bandwidth options to choose from. The widest curve gives you the most vintage style sound, while the narrower options enable you to get more surgical. For example, the narrow curves can help you zone in on a snare drum while not highlighting the hi hat that may be bleeding into the microphone.
The high and low pass filters are incredibly useful and musical. The LPF ranges from 3.8K to 18K and can be used for taming high frequencies or to dull something out completely. The HPF can help clean up low rumbles ranging from 22Hz to 270Hz.
The GT4-2 is a powerhouse EQ that combines the best of Geoff Tanner’s designs and Class A discrete technology. The result is a sound that sets it apart from any four band equalizer that has come before it. It is suitable for any single source and it’s also at home for making adjustments for an entire mix. Try one for yourself and understand what sets the GT4-2 above the rest.
