D.W. Fearn VT-4 Single-Channel Tube LC Equalizer #134 (Used)

The D.W. Fearn VT-4 equalizer uses passive LC circuitry with Class A triode vacuum tube stages for the input and output. The tube circuitry is largely derived from the VT microphone preamplifier design, ensuring that the equalizer has much the same sonic character as the preamps. Based on classic designs, the LC-style passive equalization circuitry is still the best-sounding way to achieve high-quality, musical tonal control.

INPUT SECTION

The input is line-level, transformer balanced-bridging and the active vacuum tube input section features adjustable gain to accommodate input signals as low as -10 dBm. The input transformer is custom made to D.W. Fearn's specifications and is the same model used on the VT-1 and VT-2 mic preamps.

EQUALIZATION SECTION

All equalization is accomplished with passive LC (inductor/capacitor) circuitry. The inductors are custom-made for the VT-4 by Jensen Transformers Inc. All capacitors are polystyrene or polypropylene types. The rotary switches are semi-sealed, silver-con- tact types selected for quiet operation and long life.

OUTPUT SECTION

The output amplifier is similar to the Input section, using a two-stage, Class A 6N1P triode amplifier with a cathode-follower output. The output is transformer-balanced, using a custom-made Jensen transformer. The output is optimized for feeding bridging inputs, which are standard in the recording industry. Either a balanced or unbalanced source may be fed.

STEPPED CONTROLS FOR PRECISION

All controls are stepped for precise repeatability and uniform matching between units. High-quality rotary switches are used with 1% metal-film resistors. All of the audio capacitors are polystyrene or polypropylene, and the inductors are custom-made for us to our exacting specifications.

HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION

The equalizer is constructed of heavy-gauge aluminum, with a 3RU (5.25"), 1/4" thick front panel, finished in D.W. Fearn red. It matches the VT-1/VT-2 series of mic preamps in appearance and construction. Like the VT series of preamps, the VT-4 has been designed to be an exceptional tool for audio professionals. The design frequencies and curves were determined by ear, after extensive listening to a variety of program material, both individual tracks and overall mixes. The result is a highly-musical equalizer with plenty of range for enhancing any track.

D.W. FEARN VT-4 FEATURES:

• Equalizer featuring passive LC circuitry with Class A triode vacuum tube stages for the input and output
• Line-level, transformer balanced-bridging input section features adjustable gain to accommodate input signals as low as -10 dBm
• Transformer-balanced output with custom-made Jensen transformer
• Heavy-gauge aluminum with a 3RU (5.25"), 1/4" thick front panel