Tube-Tech PE 1C – Vintage-Inspired Passive Tube Equalizer

The Tube-Tech PE 1C is an all-tube, passive program equalizer based on the legendary Pultec EQP-1A design. Renowned for its warm, musical sound, the PE 1C combines an all-passive EQ section with a high-quality tube amplifier, delivering the unmistakable tonal character of classic analog equalization.

The Coveted Pultec Sound

With the original Pultec EQP-1A long out of production and commanding premium prices, the PE 1C is the most accessible way to achieve its legendary sound. Featuring the famous “Low-End Trick”—where low boost and cut frequencies overlap—the PE 1C allows engineers to shape deep, punchy bass while maintaining clarity in the mids and highs.

Key Features

• Authentic Pultec-Style Passive EQ – Classic tone-shaping capabilities
• All-Tube Push-Pull Amplifier – Rich, analog warmth
• Low-End Trick – Unique simultaneous boost and attenuation for precise bass control
• Extended High-Frequency Boost – Ranges from 1 kHz to 16 kHz for enhanced clarity
• Transformer-Balanced Input & Output – Ensures pristine signal integrity
• No Insertion Loss – Maintains full signal transparency
• Clickless In/Out Switch – Seamless operation without artifacts
• Premium Components – Highest quality resistors, capacitors, and transformers

FAQ: Differences Between PE 1A, PE 1B, and PE 1C

• The amplifier section in the PE 1A and PE 1B is hardwired.
• In the PE 1C, transformers and tubes are placed inside the unit on a printed circuit board.
• The low boost/attenuation and high attenuation filters are identical across all models.
• The PE 1B and PE 1C include three additional high-boost frequencies (1, 1.5, and 2 kHz).
• The PE 1C is the only model still in production and has remained nearly unchanged from its original design.

How Does the PE 1C Sound?

The PE 1C is one of the very few program equalizers that retains the full character of the original Pultec EQ when it was new. Many vintage Pultecs today sound grainy due to aging components, whereas the PE 1C delivers a pristine and open top end with unmatched clarity.

“The Low-End Trick”

The PE 1C’s low-end controls use two separate passive EQ circuits that overlap slightly, creating the famous “Low-End Trick.” Boosting and attenuating low frequencies simultaneously results in a tight, powerful bass response that cannot be achieved with standard active EQs.

“The Top-End Magic”

The PE 1C’s extended high-frequency boost opens up dark sources, such as ribbon microphones, adding definition without harshness. Its smooth, passive EQ circuit makes it ideal for shaping vocals, guitars, drums, and mix bus processing.

Not a “Dirty” Tube EQ

Unlike some tube-based equalizers, the PE 1C is not designed to introduce distortion. Classic, well-built tube gear always featured extended frequency response and a clean, open sound. The PE 1C follows this philosophy, staying true to the Tube-Tech commitment to pristine, high-fidelity analog processing.

Why Choose the Tube-Tech PE 1C?

The PE 1C brings the legendary Pultec-style passive EQ into the modern studio with unmatched authenticity. Whether you’re shaping the low end of a kick drum, adding air to a vocal, or refining an entire mix, the PE 1C remains an essential tool for engineers seeking smooth, musical equalization.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Response (-3 dB): 5 Hz – 40 kHz
• Noise Level: < -85 dBU at 0 dB gain
• CMRR: > 60 dB at 10 kHz
• Low Frequency Controls:
  • Boost Frequencies: 20, 30, 60, 100 Hz (0 to +14 dB)
  • Attenuation Frequencies: 20, 30, 60, 100 Hz (0 to -18 dB)
• High Frequency Controls:
  • Boost Frequencies: 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 16 kHz (0 to +18 dB with sharp Q, 0 to 10 dB with broad Q)
  • Attenuation Frequencies: 5, 10, 20 kHz (0 to -18 dB)
• Input Impedance: 600Ω
• Insertion Loss: None