Z&H Designs HVC250 Stereo 5-Band Parametric EQ

The HVC250 Stereo 5-Band Parametric EQ from Z&H Designs is a modern tribute to the legendary Sontec MEP-250, reengineered over five years for contemporary studio workflows. Featuring an all-discrete analog signal path, five true parallel bands per channel, and a high-voltage linear power supply, the HVC250 delivers smooth, musical equalization that remains natural even under aggressive moves. Designed to be intuitive and inspiring, it offers the unmistakable character of classic analog EQ with the reliability and performance demanded by modern production.

Key Features

• Sontec-inspired stereo parametric equalizer design.
• All-discrete analog circuitry throughout.
• Five true parallel fully parametric bands per channel.
• Clean, natural response that remains musical at high boost or cut levels.
• 14 independent high-voltage discrete op-amps for extended bandwidth and dynamics.
• 56V high-voltage linear power supply for increased headroom and reduced noise.
• Wide band overlap with precise Q control for surgical or broad tonal shaping.
• Custom configurations available, including optional 6 dB version.

Circuit Design & Sonic Character

• All-discrete op-amp architecture outperforming traditional IC-based designs.
• Precision components sourced from Nikon, Motorola, Philips, and ON Semiconductor.
• Smooth response curves inspired by classic Sontec equalizers.
• Designed to preserve depth, clarity, and spatial detail without sounding processed.
• Particularly effective for cleaning, sweeping, and corrective EQ tasks.

Power & Build Quality

• High-voltage 56V linear power supply for improved transient response and dynamic range.
• Time-tested power architecture paired with an enhanced cooling system.
• Handbuilt construction using all-discrete circuit boards.
• Each unit individually tested and verified by experienced engineers before shipment.

Specifications

• Type: Stereo 5-band fully parametric analog equalizer
• Frequency Range: 15 Hz – 25 kHz
• Band Ranges
• LF: 15 Hz – 800 Hz, Q 0.67–4 or shelf, ±12 dB
• LMF: 15 Hz – 800 Hz, Q 0.67–4, ±12 dB
• MF: 160 Hz – 8 kHz, Q 0.67–4, ±12 dB
• HMF: 450 Hz – 25 kHz, Q 0.67–4, ±12 dB
• HF: 450 Hz – 25 kHz, Q 0.67–4 or shelf, ±12 dB
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio
• Left Channel: −97.092 dBV
• Right Channel: −96.021 dBV
• Distortion
• Channels Off: 0.0008%
• Channels On: 0.0015% (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
• Physical & Power
• Chassis Size (H × W × D): 130 × 404 × 254 mm
• Front Panel Size (H × W): 133 × 483 mm
• Voltage Selector: 110V / 220V