Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$4,399.00
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$2,698.00 New
$3,595.00 Used
B&H
$2,758.00
Thomann
$3,690.00 $3,659.00 $31.00 · All time low
Vintage King
$4,399.00

Average Price: $3,585

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "SPL PassEQ". 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

The SPL PassEQ is not just another equalizer in your studio arsenal; it's a masterpiece of passive EQ technology that redefines precision and musicality. Designed for professional mastering studios, this second-generation marvel builds upon its predecessor's legacy by offering an unparalleled level of frequency control and sonic detail. With its unique ability to handle both boost and cut controls independently across high, mid, and low bands, you can explore nearly three million possible frequency curves, ensuring your audio projects reach the pinnacle of sonic perfection.

What sets the PassEQ apart is its SPL 120V Rail Technology, allowing it to operate at a voltage that optimizes headroom and dynamic range far beyond typical EQs. This means your mixes will benefit from greater clarity, reduced listening fatigue, and an overall more natural sound profile. Whether you're enhancing the air in a vocal track or taming the midrange of a complex mix, the PassEQ's meticulously optimized Q-factors and expanded frequency selections provide the flexibility you need.

Crafted with precision in mind, the PassEQ features stepped ALPS potentiometers for easy recall, and its robust design ensures it can handle the demands of any professional environment. It's not just about shaping sound; it's about crafting audio experiences.

Key Features:

  • High, mid, and low bands with independent frequency selection and boost/cut controls
  • 12 selectable frequencies per band
  • Optimized Q-factor for musical results
  • Extended HF+ Band with 25kHz and 35kHz Air band frequencies
  • Mid Range Cut starting at 200Hz
  • SPL 120V Rail Technology for superior headroom and dynamic range
  • Stepped 41-detent pots for easy recall
  • Precision-detented ALPS RK27 potentiometers

Product specs

Type Solid State Mastering EQ
Number of Channels 2
Bypass Yes
Number of Bands 3
Q Type Variable
Freq Range High 580Hz-22kHz, 5kHz-35kHz
Freq Range Mid 200Hz-6kHz, 220Hz-4.8kHz
Freq Range Low 30Hz-600Hz, 10Hz-550Hz
Inputs 2 x XLR
Outputs 2 x XLR
Rack Spaces 4U
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 7"
Depth 12.25"
Width 19"
Weight 22.5 lbs.

FAQs

What type of equalization does the SPL PassEQ provide?

The SPL PassEQ is a solid-state passive mastering equalizer offering 3 bands of EQ with variable Q types, designed for precise sound shaping in professional mastering applications.

How many channels does the SPL PassEQ have?

The SPL PassEQ features 2 channels, making it suitable for stereo mastering tasks.

What are the input and output connections on the SPL PassEQ?

The SPL PassEQ is equipped with 2 XLR inputs and 2 XLR outputs, ensuring high-quality balanced connections for professional audio setups.

Is the SPL PassEQ suitable for rack mounting?

Yes, the SPL PassEQ requires 4U of rack space, making it compatible with standard 19-inch studio racks.

Does the SPL PassEQ have a bypass function?

Yes, the SPL PassEQ includes a bypass feature, allowing you to easily compare the processed and unprocessed signals.

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

How to use the SPL Passeq in a mastering session with Ronan Chris Murphy

Video thumbnail for How to use the SPL Passeq in a mastering session with Ronan Chris Murphy by Plugin Alliance

How to use the SPL Passeq in a mastering session with Ronan Chris Murphy

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Video thumbnail for SPL Passeq Demo by Plugin Alliance

SPL Passeq Demo

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Video thumbnail for NAMM 2018: SPL PASSEQ Mastering Equalizer Generation 2 Sound Demo (no talking) by Producing Bonedo

NAMM 2018: SPL PASSEQ Mastering Equalizer Generation 2 Sound Demo (no talking)

Producing Bonedo

Producing Bonedo

Video thumbnail for SPl PASSEQ Passive Mastering EQ Review 1650 / 1654 by purewaveaudio

SPl PASSEQ Passive Mastering EQ Review 1650 / 1654

purewaveaudio

purewaveaudio

Video thumbnail for GearGier #05 The SPL Passeq Mastering EQ by GearGier

GearGier #05 The SPL Passeq Mastering EQ

GearGier

GearGier

Video thumbnail for WHAT THE HELL IS IT?? -  SPL PASSEQ by Studio Life

WHAT THE HELL IS IT?? - SPL PASSEQ

Studio Life

Studio Life

Video thumbnail for SPL PASSEQ Mastering Equalizer | Video Manual EN by SPL - Sound Performance Lab

SPL PASSEQ Mastering Equalizer | Video Manual EN

SPL - Sound Performance Lab

SPL - Sound Performance Lab

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about SPL PassEQ.

Features and functionality

  • The SPL PassEQ is designed as a broadstroke EQ, making it ideal for shaping groups and buses with its L/R and M/S capabilities.

    Source
  • The SPL PassEQ's interactive EQ curves allow for unconventional tonal paths, making it a favorite for creative sound shaping.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Described as a "Pultec on steroids," suggesting it offers more robust functionality compared to standard Pultec-style EQs.

    Source
  • SPL PassEQ is likened to the UAD Massive Passive for its forgiving nature but offers unique tonal qualities not found in Pultec plugins.

    Source
  • Compared to Neve and API EQs, the SPL PassEQ is preferred for its distinct passive design which offers unique tonal coloration.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the UI challenging to read, indicating potential usability issues despite its performance.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the SPL PassEQ for its ability to handle both L/R and M/S processing efficiently, often used for broad tonal shaping in mixes.

    Source
  • Owners note that the SPL PassEQ excels in creating rich, vintage-style EQ curves that are ideal for mix bus applications.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The passive design causes interactive curves when cutting and boosting, leading to unique tonal paths not typically found in other EQs.

    Source
  • The SPL PassEQ is frequently employed in mastering due to its ability to create smooth, musical EQ adjustments without harshness, especially in the high frequencies.

    Source

Critic Reviews

SPL Passeq review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

SPL's PassEQ plugin offers impressive EQ capabilities, translating the hefty hardware into a digital format without losing its essence. While the layout might initially intimidate, its separate cut/boost frequencies deliver flexibility and precise control, minimizing phase distortion even at extreme settings. The addition of M/S processing and stereo linking enhances its appeal for mastering. However, users may need time to familiarize themselves with its complex interface. Overall, the PassEQ stands out in a crowded market of Pultec and Neve clones, offering subtle yet powerful sonic shaping at a reasonable price.

positive

New Gear Review: PASSEQ Passive Mastering Equalizer by SPL — SonicScoop

sonicscoop.com

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Freemasons uses SPL PassEQ

Freemasons

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Exactly at 3:36 you can see this plugin open in their Logic pro Daw that they use alongside Ableton

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 SPL PassEQ, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

More SPL Effects Processors

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar