Antelope goes retro with new EQ offerings
Published: PRODUCTS
There is a distinctly retro feel to Antelope Audio’s latest releases. It has extended its range of hardware interfaces and EQ offerings with the FET-A76 solid-state compressor and introduced four vintage hardware models, the VEQ-HLF, Helios 69, NEU-PEV and Lang PEQ2.
The FET-A76 implements the features of a vintage FET compressor and is reportedly able to control dynamics and sculpting tone as well as add punch and presence to anything passing through its circuit. Input and output gain control and a selectable four-way ratio control with an ‘all buttons’ mode for a more aggressive compression character are also available. It can be paired with the FPGA EQ models, including the BAE Audio 1073.
Meanwhile, the four hardware models provide additional tools for tracking and mixing to the Antelope Audio digital platform. They are available as an update for the Goliath, Zen Tour and Orion Studio hardware.
The VEQ-HLF is a filter that features two knobs, one each for passive low-cut and high-cut filters at specific frequency levels. Ten frequency selections are available per band, and are designed to eliminate unneeded frequencies at both extremes of the audio spectrum.
Modelled on a more retrospective, classic British console EQ design, the Helios 69 adds analogue detail to audio, reportedly allowing for improved depth and texture. The bass band is a stepped 50Hz shelf filter or frequency selectable peak EQ, the treble band is a fixed 1kHz shelf EQ and the mid-section sports a frequency-selectable peak or notch EQ with eight frequencies available. In addition, the control panel is rounded out with a level knob, EQ bypass and phrase reserve button. The product is also designed to preserve transparency while also adding space and presence.
The NEU-PEV EQ bases itself on a German equaliser model from the 1960s, designed to be a simple interface that simplifies the tonal process with its four main knobs. A low shelving filter is fixed at 60Hz and can apply a boost or cut. The ‘presence’ section offers up to 8dB of boost for one of seven selectable frequencies between 700Hz and 5.6kHz, while a 10kHz high shelf allows boost or cut at the top end of the frequency spectrum. It also features an on-off switch and output gain control, offering additional utility.
Continuing with the retrospective theme, the Lang PEQ2 is a solid-state parametric EQ model based on a vintage EQ from the 1960s. It includes controls that are similar to the VEQ-1A tube EQ and features frequency control, allowing users to set different and separate LF boost and LF cut frequencies. It provides extended width in the midrange, and reportedly retains tightness on the high end and low end.