Neve has added the 88R LBEQ to the 500-series range, a true 4-band fully parametric EQ based on the revered analogue circuitry of the flagship 88RS console.
Designed and hand-built in England, the 88R LBEQ distils the precision, musicality, and transparency of the world’s most advanced large-format studio console into a compact, single-slot 500-series module. When used alongside the 88R LB and 88R LBC modules, engineers can create an authentic 88RS signal chain within a 500-series chassis.
The 88R LBEQ condenses the core analogue EQ topology of the 88RS console into a streamlined 500-series format, retaining the circuit behaviour and sonic integrity that have made the flagship desk a reference point in world-class studios.
The module is capable of subtle tonal shaping and deep surgery, and console-grade flexibility with ±20dB gain per band, frequency overlap and smoothly adjustable Q. Its musical response, low phase shift and broad headroom reflect its large-format roots.
With a sweepable range from 33Hz to 440Hz and ±20dB of gain, the low band gives command over the bottom end. Selectable standard or resonant shelving alongside wide or narrow bell curves can add depth and punch to kick drums and bass instruments, tighten low-mid build-up or carve space in dense mixes. It covers 120Hz to 2kHz with full control over gain and Q (0.3 to 7).
Spanning 0.8kHz to 9kHz, the high-mid band brings definition and articulation where the ear is most sensitive. With a wide sweepable range from 1.5kHz to 18Hz and ±20dB of gain, the high band offers switchable standard or resonant shelves, plus bell options, to give the flexibility to add sheen to strings and overheads, smooth harshness, or polish entire mixes with subtle top-end refinement.
Key specifications:
- True Neve 88RS 4-band Parametric EQ Circuit.
- 500-Series/VPR Alliance Compatible.
- Headroom: +27.2dBu @ 1kHz (0.1% THD).
- THD+N: <0.004%.
- Noise: –88dBu (–117dBu bypassed).
- Frequency Response: Within ±0.1dB.
- Dynamic Range: >107dB.
- Input Z: ≈24kΩ.
- Output Z: ≈50Ω.
- Power Draw: <145mA.
- Dimensions: 132mm x 38mm x 145mm.
- Weight: 0.57kg.
The company says that ‘the 88R LBEQ raises the bar for Neve’s 500-series lineup, building on the momentum of the acclaimed 88R LBC compressor and 88R LB pre-amp. Together, these modules deliver the workflow, tone, and unmistakable character of the flagship 88RS console -now in a modular format designed for modern hybrid studios’.
The 88R LBEB is available from April at £795 (exc. VAT)/US$995.
More: www.ams-neve.com