Based on the celebrated Class-A console mic preamp and EQ, the Heritage Audio HA-81A EQ is a plug-in that offers all the musicality of the original channel strip with the versatile features of modern software. Ideal for refining instruments and adding character, this plug-in provides the same 4-band inductor-based EQ and 73-style preamp tones that have defined countless records.
Each parametric band provides ±15 dB of boost or cut and the option to remove the band from the signal path. Each mid band provides a Hi Q button for sharpening the bandwidth, while the Hi and Low shelving frequencies have Bell buttons for creating bell curves on either end of the audio spectrum. The input gain knob offers gain adjustment from 30 to 80 dB in 5 dB steps, while the output attenuator is continuously variable. You also get 18 dB/octave 3-pole high- and low-pass filters. The high-pass filter offers 27, 47, 82, 150, and 270 Hz frequency selections, while the low-pass filter provides 3.9, 5.6, 8.2, 12, and 15 kHz frequencies. Finally, the plug-in provides two buttons on the right-hand side of the interface—EQL turns the equalizer off (running your input through the emulated mic preamp only), and Phase flips the signal phase by 180°. This plug-in is available in VST3, AU, and AAX formats for macOS and Windows computers.
Where your typical 3-band 73-style equalizer exceeds at musicality but may be short of features, the HA-81A EQ excels at both. Designed to bring timeless analog character to your modern workflow, this plug-in delivers rich harmonic depth, musical EQ curves, and the unmistakable punch that defined countless classic records.
- Hi shelf frequency selection includes 3.3, 4.7, 6.8, 10, and 15 kHz
- Hi-mid band frequency selection includes 10 frequencies between 1.4 and 8.2 kHz
- Low-mid band frequency selection offers 10 frequencies between 220 Hz and 1.2 kHz
- Low shelf frequency selection of 33, 56, 180, and 330 Hz
- Off position on each band removes band from signal path
- Hi Q and Low Q button creates narrower bandwidth (Q) for the hi-mid and low-mid bands respectively
- 13 dB/octave 3-pole HPF and LPF