Hear The Gear: IGS Audio 825EQ Stereo Tube Mastering Equalizer

Mastering engineers know that the right equalizer can be the key to unlocking a mix’s full potential. The IGS Audio 825EQ Stereo Tube Mastering EQ is designed to bring precision, warmth, and depth to any project, combining classic analog character with modern mastering-grade accuracy. 

In this edition of Hear The Gear, Vintage King’s Bryan Reilly puts the 825EQ through its paces, using this versatile mastering EQ to shape five tracks across a range of genres.

IGS Audio 825EQ Stereo Tube Mastering Equalizer

IGS Audio 825EQ Stereo Tube Mastering Equalizer

The IGS 825EQ is a two-channel tube equalizer housed in a sleek 3U 19” rack chassis. Built with mastering in mind, the unit features fully stepped Elma controls for precise, repeatable adjustments. Each channel is equipped with three ECC88 tubes, with the option to swap in 6N23P or 6N1P tubes for subtle tonal variations.

At its core, the 825EQ boasts UTM transformer-balanced inputs and outputs, ensuring pristine signal integrity throughout the mastering chain. Three audio transformers per channel contribute to its smooth yet articulate sound, while a robust linear power supply provides stable, noise-free operation. The unit’s carefully designed circuitry allows for detailed shaping of lows, mids, and highs without sacrificing the natural character of a mix.

IGS 825EQ Sound Samples

To showcase the power of the IGS 825EQ, Bryan ran five tracks through it, capturing both raw and processed versions. Below, you’ll find the raw tracks, the processed versions, and the specific EQ settings used for each song.

Something Like Magic

  • Low Shelf: +8 dB @ 60 Hz
  • Low Mid: -2 dB @ 240 Hz
  • Mid: +3 dB @ 3 kHz
  • High Mid: +7 dB @ 12 kHz
  • High Shelf: +7 dB @ 20 kHz

The 825EQ added weight to the low end while enhancing the vocal presence and airiness in the high frequencies, giving the track a polished, radio-ready sound.

MoTown Instrumental

  • Low Shelf: +9 dB @ 60 Hz
  • Low Mid: -3 dB @ 1 kHz
  • Mid: +7 dB @ 1.5 kHz
  • High Mid: +7 dB @ 10 kHz
  • High Shelf: +8 dB @ 5 kHz

This track benefited from a boosted low end and a pronounced midrange, creating a punchy, energetic mix that cuts through with clarity and power.

Will I Find You?

  • Low Shelf: +9 dB @ 30 Hz
  • Low Mid: -2 dB @ 240 Hz
  • Mid: +3 dB @ 4 kHz
  • High Mid: -3 dB @ 6 kHz
  • High Shelf: +12 dB @ 20 kHz

The 825EQ brought out the warmth in the low end while taming harshness in the high mids and adding sparkle to the top end, resulting in a balanced, dynamic mix.

All That I’m Feeling

  • Low Shelf: +4 dB @ 60 Hz
  • Low Mid: -5 dB @ 500 Hz
  • Mid: -4 dB @ 4 kHz
  • High Mid: +4 dB @ 12 kHz
  • High Shelf: +8 dB @ 16 kHz

By reducing muddiness in the low mids and adding clarity to the high frequencies, the 825EQ gave this track a clean, open sound with plenty of detail.

Immersive Instrumental

  • Low Shelf: +9 dB @ 60 Hz
  • Low Mid: -3 dB @ 500 Hz
  • Mid: +3 dB @ 3 kHz
  • High Mid: +5 dB @ 12 kHz
  • High Shelf: +6 dB @ 20 kHz

The 825EQ enhanced the immersive qualities of this Ambisonic recording, adding depth to the low end and brilliance to the high frequencies for a truly three-dimensional soundstage.

Final Thoughts

The IGS Audio 825EQ delivers the perfect blend of precision, warmth, and musicality, making it a powerful tool for any mastering setup. Its stepped Elma controls ensure consistent, recallable adjustments, while the transformer-balanced design maintains the integrity of your signal.

Even when pushing the boosts to extreme levels, the EQ remains smooth and natural, never introducing harshness or unwanted artifacts. This makes it an excellent choice for enhancing mixes without sacrificing clarity or detail.

Be sure to check out the sound samples above to hear the IGS 825EQ in action, and experience firsthand how this versatile mastering EQ can transform your mixes.

Miles MalinIf you’re interested in purchasing the 825EQ Stereo Tube Mastering Equalizer or have any questions about other IGS Audio products, contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.