Midas 512 500 Series Parametric EQ

The Midas 512 500 Series Parametric EQ is a compact 500 Series 4 band fully parametric equalizer based on channel strip originally provided in the legendary MIDAS HERITAGE 3000 mixing console. When used in conjunction with the LEGEND L10, L6, or other standard 500 Series rack-mount chassis, the 512 provides the ideal EQ solution for users seeking MIDAS performance in a modular format that boasts upgraded, premium-quality performance.

Class Leading EQ

A parametric equalizer allows the operator to address multiple parameters with high precision when applying filters to an audio signal, i.e., a specific frequency can be cut or boosted by an exact amount across an adjustable bandwidth or “Q”. Such surgical-level equalization enables fine tuning the filter to reduce the gain at frequencies that are prone to feedback, or remove undesirable tonal qualities and their overtones. Conversely, the ability to increase (boost) the gain at certain frequencies provides the ideal way to add punch to bass and kick drum signals, or to add presence to vocal or solo instrument tonalities. The 512 utilizes 4 overlapping frequency bands to easily and expertly craft professional-grade output signals – both in the studio and during live performance. And when it comes to sound quality, MIDAS products are recognized by engineers the world over as the class leader for their warm and responsive delivery

Precision Dual Concentric Controls

Built from the bottom up, the 512 EQ strip operates across 4 overlapping frequency bands: Bass (20 Hz to 400 Hz); Lo Mid (100 Hz to 2 kHz); Hi Mid (400 Hz to 8 kHz); and Treble (1 kHz to 20 kHz). The Frequency and Gain (-15 dB to +15 dB) adjustments are provided in the form of stacked dual concentric controls, with Gain on the knob and Frequency on the outer ring. All give instant access to fully variable gain and frequency settings in their respective operating bands.

Bass and Treble Bell Switches

512’s Bass and Treble Width controls (Q) are non-functional while in traditional MIDAS shelving mode, which is the default (Bell switches disengaged). When the Bell switches are pressed and illuminated, the Bass and Treble Width controls provide parametric operation. The Lo Mid and Hi Mid frequency bands are always in parametric operating mode – so when both Bell switches are engaged, all 4 Width controls provide fully variable parametric equalization.

High Performance Balanced Input Stage

Decades of experience, paired with the premium-grade components that make up every input stage Midas build, ensures the ultimate in signal integrity that is the very foundation of their design process. That warm and organic MIDAS sound has been heard by millions of concert goers – and recorded for posterity on countless live albums. The input stage of the 512 is second to none with its low noise performance, which boasts an enviable Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR) of -70 dB @ 1 kHz.

Transistor Driven Transformer Balanced Output

The output stage of any audio processor is the most critical when it comes to maintaining signal integrity, so the 512 utilizes discrete bipolar transistors for both their low distortion and noise characteristics. To finalize the balanced output, a premium-quality transformer is employed in order to minimize distortion and maximize clean headroom. 512’s transformer also provides galvanic isolation, generates a more vintage sound, and becomes saturated at lower frequencies to add color when driven hard.

Ultra Low Noise Design

As with all MIDAS consoles and processors, Midas use only premium quality components throughout the design and manufacturing process, including the ultra low noise op-amps to ensure -97 dBu performance at unity gain from 22 Hz to 22 kHz.

True Hardware Bypass & Power Up Mute

For those occasions when equalization is not needed, 512’s IN switch can be disengaged to remove all circuitry from the signal path via true hardware relay bypass. Additionally, true bypass mode engages should the chassis become accidentally powered down.