Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (2)
$269.00
Reverb
$299.00 New
$249.00 Used
Thomann
4.1 (11)
$243.00 $242.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $272

Standard/Professional

$100

$501+

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High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Fredenstein Artistic EQ 500 Series Equalizer Module". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Fredenstein Artistic EQ 500 Series Equalizer Module is a dynamic tool for musicians and producers seeking a blend of vintage warmth and modern precision. This 3-band equalizer, part of the acclaimed 500 Series, is designed to transform your sound with finesse. It features Fredenstein's proprietary OPA2 discrete operational amplifier, which is not a mere clone of past designs, but an innovative creation that ensures superior audio performance with a smooth, vintage-inspired signature.

The Artistic EQ provides up to ±14dB of boost or cut, with each band offering stepless frequency control: 30 to 300 Hz for lows, 300 Hz to 3 kHz for mids, and 2 to 20 kHz for highs. Both the low and high bands can toggle between bell and shelf filter characteristics, offering flexibility for a variety of applications. Its switchable Color circuit adds a tube-like harmonic richness, perfect for enhancing the depth and character of your tracks.

Crafted with a US-made steel-core output transformer, this module delivers a punchy, clear sound without sacrificing the warmth associated with vintage gear. The Artistic EQ is equipped with a hard bypass switch for easy A/B comparison and LED indicators for power and clipping, ensuring precision in your mix.

Key Features:

  • 1-channel, 3-band 500 Series equalizer
  • Gain control from -14 dB to +14 dB
  • Switchable Color circuit for tube-like harmonic content
  • OPA2 discrete operational amplifier for superior sound quality
  • Adjustable frequencies: 30-300 Hz (low), 300 Hz-3 kHz (mid), 2-20 kHz (high)
  • Bell and shelf filter options for low and high bands
  • US-made steel-core output transformer
  • Hard bypass switch and LED indicators for easy operation

Product specs

Type Solid State
Number of Channels 1
Controls Switchable Color Circuit
High Pass Filter Yes
Low Pass Filter Yes
EQ 3-Band Semi-Parametric Equalizer
Number of Bands 3
Boost/Cut Range ±14dB
Freq Range High 2kHz-20kHz (Shelf/Bell switchable)
Freq Range Mid 0.3kHz-3kHz
Freq Range Low 30Hz-300Hz (Shelf/Bell switchable)
Bypass Yes
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz (±0.2dB)
Power Usage ±16V DC, ±70mA
Module Slot Size Single
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Video thumbnail for Fredenstein Artistic Series - Overview by Fredenstein Professional Audio

Fredenstein Artistic Series - Overview

Fredenstein Professional Audio

Fredenstein Professional Audio

Reviews

PROS

  • Smooth boost and cut make it preferred over some competitors

  • Color switch adds subtle warmth and modern look

  • Transformer and op amp inclusion for enhanced audio experience

  • Effective for quick fixes on lead guitars

  • Ideal for low-budget setups, offering decent performance

CONS

  • Color switch effect is often too subtle

  • Limited flexibility with bell and shelf settings

  • Knobs may feel wobbly during adjustments

  • Not suitable for precise, surgical audio adjustments

  • Sound changes even when EQ settings are neutral

  • Performance lacks impact with high-end equipment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fredenstein Artistic EQ 500 Series Equalizer Module.

Comparisons

  • The Fredenstein Artistic PreAmp Plus is comparable in gain to the Presonus Studiolive 16.4.2 AI's +60dB but provides slightly more analog color.

    Source
  • Owners suggest the GAP Pre73 and Warm Audio WA12500 for those seeking more color and character than typical interface preamps.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Artistic Compressor Plus with fixed gain staging is preferred over the non-plus version, which is reported to be excessively hot.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Artistic EQ is considered less essential than preamps and compressors for users looking to add gain and manage transients in rock music recordings.

    Source

User experience

  • Users note that analog EQs like the Artistic EQ can be more finicky to set up than digital EQs, requiring more time for optimal configuration.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fredenstein Artistic EQ Review - Affordable 500 Series EQ | Tape Op Magazine

tapeop.com

Fredenstein's Artistic EQ 500 Series offers superb value for home and project studios needing transparent EQ without the hefty price tag. Its versatile filter bands shine on drums and vocals, making it a reliable addition to any setup. While the lack of a dedicated low pass filter and subtle "Color mode" might not satisfy those craving pronounced tonal changes, its clarity-first design appeals to engineers in jazz and classical genres. Overall, it's a solid, affordable choice for those seeking quality outboard EQ to enhance their hybrid workflows.

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