SOLID STATE LOGIC E-Series EQ Module

Product overview

The SOLID STATE LOGIC E-Series EQ Module brings the classic SL 4000 E console channel EQ to 500-series racks, with two switchable EQ flavours, the 'Brown' and the 'Black' knob circuits, in a versatile 4-band design based on the 611E channel strip.

The module features two different EQs found on editions of the console produced between 1981 and 1989, each with unique response curves and tonal character. The type fitted to a console was distinguished by the colour of the LF knob caps, so the two flavours became known as the 'Brown' and 'Black' EQs, loved by generations of professional producers. The module works at the +4 dBu nominal level common to 500-series modules.

Key features

• Immortal SSL 4000 E-Series circuitry in 500-series format
• 'Black 242' and 'Brown 02' twin EQ design, switched with BLK
• Versatile 4-band channel EQ
• Bell curve option on HF and LF
• Fully parametric LMF and HMF with Q
• Module IN switch

Brown Knob EQ ('02')

The default circuit, standard on all early production E-Series consoles. Its parametric mid bands use SSL's classic logarithmically symmetric design, so the +/-3 dB points keep the same musical interval from the centre frequency at any frequency and gain; the shelves are traditional 6 dB/octave designs with a fixed-Q bell option. It was used on countless recordings and mixes in the early eighties.

Black Knob EQ ('242')

Developed in the mid-eighties, the Black Knob EQ offers enhanced cut and boost ranges (+/-18 dB instead of +/-15 dB) with a different control law for tighter control of low frequencies. It is the design retained as the 'E-Series' EQ option on later SSL consoles.

In the box

• E-Series EQ Module

SOLID STATE LOGIC E-Series EQ Module: frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Brown and Black EQ?

The Brown ('02') EQ is the original early E-Series circuit; the Black ('242') adds +/-18 dB range and a different control law for tighter low frequencies. BLK switches between them.

What do I need to use it?

A 500-series compatible rack; fit the module with the rack power off.

Are the mid bands fully parametric?

Yes. HMF and LMF have gain, frequency and Q; HF and LF are shelves with a bell option.

Where can I buy the SOLID STATE LOGIC E-Series EQ Module in India?

The SOLID STATE LOGIC E-Series EQ Module is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Shaping a vocal while tracking

Engineers recording through a 500-series rack.

Connections

Setup

1. Start with the Brown Knob EQ.
2. Use HMF with Q to find presence.
3. Clean the low end with LF.
4. Compare with IN.

Tip: Try BLK for wider boost and tighter low end.

Workflow 2: Stem EQ as a hardware insert

Mix engineers.

Connections

Setup

1. Set up a hardware insert in the recording software.
2. Choose Brown or Black EQ.
3. Shape with the shelves or bell curves.
4. Print the processed stem.

Tip: The bell option on HF and LF gives a fixed-Q parametric response.