

EQ tips & tricks with Waves PuigTec EQ
Explore the features, history, and practical applications of Waves’ PuigTec EQ plugins, offering insights into their unique characteristics.
One of Waves’ standout plugins is the Puigtec EQ, modeled after the iconic Pultec EQP-1A equalizer. This renowned EQ plugin, developed in collaboration with legendary producer & mixing engineer Jack Joseph Puig, retains the vintage charm and musicality of the original hardware while providing the flexibility and convenience of digital technology.
History & Background:
The original Pultec EQP-1A, created by Pulse Techniques, Inc. In 1953, it was a classic tube-based equalizer revered for its smooth, musical sound. It quickly became a staple in professional recording studios due to its ability to enhance audio tracks without introducing harshness. Over the years, it has been used on countless iconic recordings, cementing its place in audio engineering history.
Key Features of the Waves Puigtec EQ:
Dual EQ Units: The collection includes two different EQ units:
- PuigTec EQP-1A: A program equalizer known for its ability to boost and cut at the same frequency, creating a distinctive phase effect that adds depth and character to audio.
- PuigTec MEQ-5: A midrange equalizer that focuses on the critical midrange frequencies, allowing for precise shaping of the midrange spectrum.
Vintage Tube Sound: The PuigTec EQP-1A emulates the warmth and rich sound similar to its analog version. It reproduces subtle distortion and adds vintage character to the sound by using the “Mains” Knob.
Boost & Attenuate: Both EQ units allow simultaneous boosting and attenuating of certain frequencies, a signature feature of the Pultec design that contributes to their unique sound.
Broadband Equalization: The EQP-1A offers broad equalization curves that are highly musical, making it suitable for enhancing the overall tonal balance of a track.
Frequency & Attenuate Selectors: The EQP-1A Contains low & high-frequency selector knobs with an attenuate selector to control the highs.
Presets: The PuigTec EQ comes with a variety of presets created by renowned producer/engineer Jack Joseph Puig, providing useful starting points for different types of audio material.
Gain Knob: Lastly, like every analog EQ it has a gain knob, to control the volume and sometimes it also works as a saturation knob.
The PuigTec EQs are different from our regular EQs, such as FabFilter Pro-Q or any other stock EQ. They only have knobs to control the frequencies, which sets them apart. They have their analog tube sound that can help boost the low-end of kicks, bass, and depth in instruments such as guitars and pianos. It can make any sound powerful by just tweaking some knobs.
Now, let’s take a look at some Tips and Tricks to make your low-end sound warmer and deeper using the PuigTec EQ.
PuigTec on Kick:
In EQP-1A you can use both the boost and attenuation knob at the same time and surprisingly it will not cancel each other, instead, it will enhance the low end and make it tight and deep. To achieve this you can follow this process – Set the Low-frequency selector to 60 Hz, Adjust the Boost knob accordingly, Then adjust the Attenuation knob a little bit to 2 or 3 (recommended). Some kicks have Highs too, and you can also add a bit of air and crunch by adjusting the high-frequency selector to 10KHz and Boosting accordingly. But don’t forget to use the Gain knob to control the levels.
Enhance the low-end in the bass:
To Enhance and tighten the bass, set the low-frequency selector at 30 Hz boost the frequency to 3-4, and tighten the bass using the attenuation knob. You can also use this same trick on 808s. But always remember to adjust the levels using the Gain knob.
PuigTec on Vocals:
To enhance the mid-range and make your vocals sound crisp, adjust the high-frequency selector to 10-20KHz and boost the frequency. Make a curve at around 5 Hz using the Attenuation, and then tighten it using attenuation at 100 Hz. If the vocals sound thin, you can also boost it to 100 Hz. Additionally, to give it a mid-range boost, use the PuigTec MEQ 5.
Adding Warmth to the Instruments:
For adding warmth to the instruments such as Guitars and Pianos use the PuigTec MEQ 5, Boost at 1.5kHz, and Attenuate at 5kHz. To add more attack and definition to the pads boost it at 1kHz to 3kHz.
Parallel Compression for Drums With Puigtec EQ:
Use the PuigTec EQs on a parallel bus to add characters without over-processing the original signal.
Mastering with PuigTec EQ:
Low-end Control:
Add warmth and fullness by boosting around 60Hz or 100Hz. Start with a small boost (1-2dB) and listen to the effect on the overall mix. Tighten the low end by attenuating the same frequency. This can help control boominess while maintaining the fullness.
High-End Clarity:
Enhance the air and sparkle of your mix by boosting at 10kHz or 12kHz. A small boost can add clarity and definition. If necessary, use attenuation to control any harshness in the high frequencies.
Midrange Presence:
Enhance presence and detail by boosting around 3kHz. This can help bring forward elements like vocals and lead instruments.
The Waves PuigTec EQ collection bridges the past and the present by faithfully emulating the iconic Pultec EQs. It offers modern producers a powerful tool that combines the timeless sound of vintage hardware with the convenience of digital technology. Whether you need warmth, clarity, or a character in your tracks, the PuigTec EQs are an essential plugin for any producer/engineer.
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