Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $4,346
High-end/Boutique
$100
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Retro Instruments 2a3 Program Equalizer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Step into the world of vintage audio magic with the Retro Instruments 2a3 Program Equalizer. This dual-channel, all-tube passive equalizer is inspired by the legendary Pultec EQP-1A3, but with modern enhancements that elevate its performance in any studio setting. Harness the power of true passive equalization to achieve deep, resonant bass, smooth highs, and the warm, inviting tones that tube enthusiasts crave.
The Retro 2a3 isn't just about emulating classic sounds; it builds upon them. It offers expanded high-frequency points and a subsonic filter cleverly positioned at the center, providing precise control over both channels. Whether you're looking to make vocals shine during tracking, add presence in mixing, or introduce a sweet, vintage warmth during mastering, this equalizer is your secret weapon.
What sets the Retro 2a3 apart is its commitment to natural, organic tones. Its passive circuits eschew harsh amplifier feedback, delivering pure capacitor-inductor equalization. This means even the most extreme boosts and cuts maintain a musical quality, making it a favorite for those who value sonic purity.
Designed for professionals who demand the best, the 2a3 boasts transformer-balanced inputs and outputs to eliminate hum and noise, while the durable steel chassis ensures it can withstand the rigors of studio life. With its classic feel and modern improvements, the Retro 2a3 is more than just an equalizer—it's an essential tool for any serious audio engineer.
Key Features:
- Dual-channel, all-tube passive equalizer
- Inspired by the classic Pultec EQP-1A3 design
- Expanded high-frequency points for enhanced control
- Subsonic filter with settings at 40Hz and 90Hz
- Transformer-balanced and fully-floating 600-ohm input and output
- Durable steel chassis for longevity in studio environments
Product specs
| Type | Tube |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Tube | Yes |
| Bypass | Yes |
| Number of Bands | 2 |
| High Pass Filter | Yes |
| Freq Range High | 1.5kHz-16kHz |
| Freq Range Low | 20Hz-100Hz |
| Inputs | 2 x XLR |
| Outputs | 2 x XLR |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Rack Spaces | 2U |
| Height | 3.5" |
| Depth | 9" |
| Width | 19" |
FAQs
-
What is the Retro Instruments 2A3 Program Equalizer used for?
-
The Retro Instruments 2A3 is a dual-channel tube equalizer designed for studio use, offering detailed control over high and low frequencies, making it ideal for shaping the tonal balance of audio tracks.
-
How does the Retro Instruments 2A3 differ from other equalizers?
-
The 2A3 features a classic tube design inspired by the Pultec EQP-1A3, providing a warm, analog sound with selectable high and low frequency points and a subsonic filter for precise audio shaping.
-
Is the Retro Instruments 2A3 suitable for mastering?
-
Yes, the Retro Instruments 2A3 is well-suited for mastering, offering high-quality tube-driven equalization with a broad frequency response and precise control over both channels.
-
What are the connectivity options for the Retro Instruments 2A3?
-
The Retro Instruments 2A3 features 2 XLR inputs and outputs, making it compatible with professional studio setups for seamless integration into your signal chain.
-
Does the Retro Instruments 2A3 have a bypass function?
-
Yes, the Retro Instruments 2A3 includes a bypass function, allowing you to easily compare the processed and unprocessed audio signals.
Videos
ZenProAudio
RETRO Instruments 2A3 Equalizer @ ZenPro Audio
Reviews
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
In this SoundOnSound article, Jake Sinclair talks about how Brendon's vocals were recorded for the album. Mentioning that the entire record was recorded at his studio.
"The vocals were all recorded with a Wunder CM7. If you do a mic shootout with that mic it may not win, because it’s not the brightest mic, but I love the way it sits in a mix. So we stuck with it for the whole record. The rest of my vocal signal chain consisted of a BAE 1073 mic pre going into a Purple Audio MC77 compressor, which is like an 1176, and then an LA2A, and a Retro Instruments 2A3 EQ to add some sizzle at the top. I heavily compressed on the way in, with the MC77 doing 15–20 dB of gain reduction, which puts the vocal right in your face."
the Retro Instruments 2a3 can be seen on one of the racks in the center of this image
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Retro Instruments 2a3 Program Equalizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.