KLARK TEKNIK EQP-KT EQUALIZER

Some Background On The Klark Teknik EQP-KT Equalizer.

Klark Teknik and the Beginnings: Klark Teknik is a British audio equipment manufacturer with a rich history in the industry. Founded in the 1970s by brothers Phil and Terry Clarke, the company initially gained recognition for its graphic equalizers and innovative audio signal processing solutions.

Inspiration from Classic Pultec Equalizers: The design of the EQP-KT Equalizer takes inspiration from the iconic Pultec EQP-1A and MEQ-5 equalizers, which are revered for their warm and musical sound. Pultec equalizers were widely used in recording studios during the golden age of analog audio and became timeless classics known for their unique ability to shape audio with a blend of tube-driven harmonics.

Modern Reinterpretation: Klark Teknik recognized the enduring popularity of vintage Pultec-style equalizers and decided to create a modern reinterpretation with the EQP-KT. This new equalizer aimed to capture the essence of the classic Pultec sound while incorporating modern components and manufacturing techniques.

Key Features of the Klark Teknik EQP-KT: The EQP-KT offers a range of features inspired by its Pultec predecessors, including:

• Dual-Channel Design: Like the original Pultec designs, the EQP-KT is a dual-channel (stereo) equalizer, providing two channels of simultaneous equalization for stereo sources.
• Tube Circuitry: The unit utilizes vacuum tube technology to add warmth and harmonic character to the audio signal, contributing to its vintage sound.
• Boost and Attenuation: The EQP-KT includes separate boost and attenuation controls for the low-frequency and high-frequency bands. This enables a broad range of tonal shaping options and “Pultec trick” capabilities.
• Selectable Frequencies: The EQP-KT offers selectable frequency points for both the low and high bands, allowing precise adjustments to the tonal balance.
• Bypass and Phase Reverse: It includes a bypass switch for A/B comparisons and a phase reverse switch to correct phase issues in the audio signal.

Continued Popularity: The Klark Teknik EQP-KT Equalizer, with its vintage-inspired design and modern components, became a sought-after tool in the audio industry. It allowed engineers and producers to access the classic Pultec sound in a reliable and versatile package. As of my last update in 2021, the EQP-KT was celebrated for its ability to add that signature warm, analog character to recordings while providing the flexibility and precision needed in modern audio production.

Klark Teknik EQP-KT Equalizer.

As an audio enthusiast with a deep appreciation for the warmth and character of vintage gear, I was naturally drawn to the Klark Teknik EQP-KT Equalizer. This dual-channel tube equalizer, inspired by the legendary Pultec designs, has become a secret weapon in my studio. Here’s my review of the EQP-KT:

Timeless Elegance: The moment you lay your eyes on the EQP-KT, it’s hard not to be captivated by its vintage aesthetics. The design pays homage to classic Pultec units, with the same dual-channel layout, smooth rotary controls, and that unmistakable old-school charm. It’s as much an art piece as it is an audio tool.

Vintage Vibe with Modern Precision: The EQP-KT successfully marries vintage vibe with modern precision. Like its predecessors, it’s a dual-channel equalizer, perfect for stereo applications. The tube circuitry adds an inviting warmth to your sound, while the precise and repeatable controls make it incredibly versatile.

The Pultec “Magic”: What sets the EQP-KT apart is its ability to replicate the fabled “Pultec magic.” The separate boost and attenuation controls for the low and high bands create a sonic playground. It’s here that you can craft the warm, gentle curves, boosting and cutting frequencies in ways that are nothing short of magical. The ability to use both boost and cut simultaneously is the secret sauce for adding weight and clarity to sources.

Selectable Frequencies: The selectable frequency points are a boon. It gives you the flexibility to pinpoint and enhance specific areas of your mix or tracks, whether you’re giving vocals a velvety low-end hug or adding shimmer to your acoustic guitar.

A/B Comparison and Phase Reverse: The inclusion of the bypass and phase reverse switches is both practical and creative. A/B comparisons are essential in audio production, and the phase reverse can work wonders when dealing with phase issues, particularly in multi-mic setups.

Warmth and Harmonic Richness: The use of tubes in the EQP-KT is a game-changer. It imparts that unmistakable analog warmth and harmonic richness that’s reminiscent of vintage studio equipment. Every time I run a signal through it, I’m greeted with that “vintage hug” that instantly elevates the sound.

Versatility for Any Application: The EQP-KT is a versatile workhorse. It’s equally at home in tracking as it is in mixing. It has become my go-to for vocals, acoustic instruments, and the mix bus. It has the power to add that indescribable “glow” that you hear on classic recordings.

Conclusion: In a world where vintage audio equipment is both revered and rare, the Klark Teknik EQP-KT Equalizer offers the perfect balance. It brings the vintage-flavored character of Pultec-style EQs to the modern studio, without the hassles of maintaining vintage gear. It’s a sonic magic wand that can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, adding warmth, depth, and that elusive analog charm to your recordings. The EQP-KT has become an essential tool in my sonic arsenal, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone in search of that vintage touch in a modern package.

Features And Specifications Of The Klark Teknik EQP-KT Equalizer.

Features:

1. Dual-Channel Design: The EQP-KT is a dual-channel (stereo) equalizer, allowing for simultaneous equalization of two channels or stereo sources.
2. Tube Circuitry: The unit employs tube technology to introduce warmth and harmonic richness into the audio signal.
3. Boost and Attenuation Controls: The EQP-KT features separate controls for boost and attenuation on both the low-frequency and high-frequency bands. This allows for a wide range of tonal shaping options.
4. Selectable Frequency Points: It offers selectable frequency points for the low and high bands, enabling precise adjustments to target specific frequencies during equalization.
5. Bypass and Phase Reverse: The unit includes a bypass switch for A/B comparisons, as well as a phase reverse switch for addressing phase issues in the audio signal.
6. VU Meters: The EQP-KT is equipped with VU meters for each channel, providing visual feedback on input and output levels.
7. Vintage-Style Design: The unit’s design pays homage to classic Pultec equalizers, offering a vintage-inspired aesthetic.
8. Balanced XLR I/O: It includes XLR input and output connections, ensuring compatibility with professional audio equipment.

Specifications:

1. Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±1 dB)
2. THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): < 0.02% @ 1 kHz
3. Signal-to-Noise Ratio: > -75 dBu (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
4. Maximum Input Level: +21 dBu
5. Maximum Output Level: +24 dBu
6. Input Impedance: 20 kΩ
7. Output Impedance: < 150 Ω
8. Tube Complement: 2 x 12AX7 tubes
9. Power Requirements: 115V or 230V AC (selectable), 50/60 Hz
10. Dimensions: Standard 2U rackmount size
11. Weight: Approximately 7.5 kg

The Klark Teknik EQP-KT Equalizer is celebrated for its vintage-inspired design and its ability to add a touch of analog warmth and character to audio signals. The combination of tube circuitry, boost/attenuation controls, selectable frequencies, and other vintage-style features makes it a valuable tool for those seeking classic Pultec-style equalization in a modern studio setting.

Gettin’ Weird With The Klark Teknik EQP-KT – Johnny Dingo’s Story.

I remember that fateful night in the recording studio as if it were yesterday. The atmosphere was charged with creativity, and the dimly lit control room was alive with the sound of music. Our band was deep into a recording session, and the Klark Teknik EQP-KT Equalizer was sitting proudly in the rack, poised to weave its magic into our tracks.

We were a ragtag group of musicians with an insatiable love for all things quirky and unconventional. The drummer, Tony, was a character in his own right, known for his wild antics and unpredictable behavior. That night, he was particularly high-spirited, probably due to the six-pack of craft beers he had brought along.

As the recording session progressed, the energy in the room intensified. We were nailing our parts, and the sense of accomplishment was undeniable. That’s when Tony, in the midst of the musical frenzy, decided it was time for a spontaneous celebration. He grabbed one of his open beers and, like a victorious gladiator raising his goblet, lifted it high in the air for a toast to our musical triumph.

But in an unfortunate twist of fate, the bottom of the beer can gave way, and an ungodly cascade of frothy, amber liquid came pouring forth. Time seemed to slow down as the beer rained down onto the Klark Teknik EQP-KT.

Panic set in. Our gazes shifted from Tony, who was now desperately trying to contain the beer explosion, to the hapless equalizer. The klaxon-like sound of the band screeched to a halt, and for a moment, the only noise in the room was the unfortunate dripping of beer onto the studio floor.

I rushed to the EQP-KT, my heart pounding with a mix of frustration and anxiety. I powered it down as quickly as I could and grabbed a handful of paper towels to blot away the beer. We had no idea what kind of damage had been done, and the prospect of a damaged piece of gear was an audio engineer’s nightmare.

As we gingerly cleaned the unit, there was an awkward silence in the room. But then, something strange began to happen. The EQP-KT, which had remained quiet during the ordeal, seemed to come alive once more. It was as if the spilled beer had breathed a new kind of life into it.

The equalizer’s tubes, moistened by the beer, introduced a strange and wonderful character into the sound. As we powered it up again, we couldn’t believe our ears. The frequencies seemed to shimmer and dance in the mix, creating an almost ethereal quality to our music.

In that moment, we made a spontaneous decision. We decided to capture the magic that had been born from this mishap. We recorded a special “beer-soaked” version of the track, embracing the unexpected sonic transformation. The music took on a surreal quality, and the Klark Teknik EQP-KT became the star of the show.

In the end, the EQP-KT was meticulously cleaned and restored to its original state, but the memory of that beer-spill-turned-musical-adventure remained etched in our band’s history. It was a reminder that in the world of music, sometimes accidents can lead to moments of unexpected creativity and sonic magic. The Klark Teknik EQP-KT, with its newfound quirks, became a symbol of our willingness to embrace the unexpected and let the music take us on extraordinary journeys.

Where To Get Your Hands On A Klark Teknik EQP-KT.

The Klark Teknik EQP-KT Equalizer can be purchased from a variety of sources, including authorized dealers, pro audio equipment retailers, and online marketplaces. Here are some common places where you can find the EQP-KT for purchase:

1. Authorized Klark Teknik Dealers: Klark Teknik has a network of authorized dealers and distributors worldwide. You can visit the official Klark Teknik website to find a list of authorized dealers in your region. Purchasing from authorized dealers ensures you receive genuine products and support.
2. Pro Audio Equipment Retailers: Many pro audio equipment retailers, both physical stores and online, carry the Klark Teknik EQP-KT and provide detailed product information and customer reviews.
3. Online Music and Audio Equipment Retailers: Websites like Sweetwater, Vintage King, Thomann, Guitar Center, and others often stock the EQP-KT and provide online purchasing options.
4. eBay and Reverb: Online marketplaces like eBay and Reverb may have both new and used Klark Teknik EQP-KT units available from various sellers. Be sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews for a trustworthy transaction.
5. Klark Teknik’s Official Website: You can explore the Klark Teknik website for information on their products and to inquire about direct ordering options.

Before making a purchase, it’s advisable to compare prices and check for any available deals or promotions from different retailers. Additionally, consider the warranty and return policy offered by the seller to ensure a smooth buying experience. Keep in mind that availability and pricing may vary, so it’s a good idea to confirm the product details with the seller before making a purchase.