Originally created in 1971 as a condensed, 2 RU version of the venerable EQP-1A, the Pultec EQP-1A3-SS is a 2-band program EQ sporting a solid-state API 2520 op-amp for the gain stages. The EQP-1A3-SS otherwise features the same parts and specs as the EQP-1A and offers 20 to 100 Hz shelf boosting or attenuation, 3 to 16 kHz peak boosting, and 5 to 20 kHz shelf attenuation.
Further controls include switches for EQ In and on/off for the entire unit. You can also adjust the Q (bandwidth) between sharp and broad for precise sonic sculpting. The amplifier delivers a flat 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response. I/O is via 3-pin XLR. Each EQP-1A3-SS is made in the USA.
The EQP-1A3 was the first product in the Pultec line that was brought back into production and has continued to be very popular. New York City’s Power Station had 24 of them in each control room. Be assured, the EQP-1A3 has all that EQP-1A-style Pultec mojo that you are seeking.
This version of the EQP-1A3 is actually preferred by some engineers for certain applications (kick, snare, bass, piano, etc.) and also serves as the core for the Pultec 500 Series EQs. Many users of this version of the Pultec describe them as more punchy and having a tighter low end than the tube version.