Bettermaker Valve Stereo Passive Equalizer (VSPE)
The Bettermaker Valve Stereo Passive Equalizer (VSPE) is a revolutionary digitally controlled analog EQ that merges classic vacuum tube warmth with modern DAW integration and recall. Designed for professional producers, mix engineers, and mastering facilities, the VSPE offers the sonic character of vintage analog gear with the precision and flexibility of digital control.
At the heart of the VSPE lies a fully analog passive EQ circuit, enriched by hand-selected military-grade vacuum tubes from the USSR and custom-designed Bettermaker audio transformers. These components were meticulously chosen to deliver incredibly low distortion, ultra-low microphonics, and a rich, musical low end with a silky high-frequency response — the signature sound we call HEAT.
Analog Warmth Meets Digital Precision
The VSPE gives users complete tactile control via front-panel knobs, and full DAW integration via the included plugin. Adjust parameters in real time, automate EQ moves, or recall entire sessions at the push of a button. The plugin also features high-quality digital HPF/LPF filters, a real-time spectrum analyzer, session snapshot manager, dual-mono control, and a graphical EQ curve with drag-and-drop handles.
With stereo and dual mono operation modes, a solo function for frequency bands, and quantized knob control (step mode), the VSPE adapts seamlessly to mixing, mastering, and production tasks. When disconnected from the plugin, the hardware functions in stereo-linked mode, with the HEAT section always active.
Vacuum Tubes and Transformers
The VSPE uses double triode tubes originally engineered for ballistic missile and jet fighter electronics — delivering unmatched reliability, low noise, and consistent performance. These tubes include precious metal alloys, special gas fills, and military-grade acceptance testing.
To complement the tube stage, Bettermaker created custom transformers that outperform modern alternatives, especially in the low-frequency range where vintage coherence matters most. The result is an EQ that not only measures beautifully but delivers musicality that’s immediately audible.
Key Features:
- Fully analog stereo passive EQ with tube and transformer output stage
- Digitally controlled hardware with full DAW integration and automation
- Custom audio transformers and vintage Soviet military tubes
- HEAT feature: blend pristine tube tone with saturated analog color
- Dual mono and stereo-linked operation
- Quantize mode for stepped EQ adjustments
- Dry EQ band soloing and drag-able EQ curve in plugin
- High-quality digital high-pass and low-pass filters (plugin only)
- Spectrum analyzer, session snapshots, level metering
Equalizer Details:
- Low boost/cut frequencies: 20, 30, 60, 100 Hz
- High boost frequencies: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 28 kHz
- High cut frequencies: 5, 10, 20 kHz
- Max Low Boost: 15 dB (at 100 Hz)
- Max Low Cut: 16 dB (at 100 Hz)
- Max High Boost: 18 dB
- Output Gain: ±8 dB (0.1 dB resolution / 1 dB in Quantize mode)
- Control Resolution: 101 steps (EQ), 34 steps (Hi Cut)
Technical Specifications:
- Max Input Level: +24 dBu (48kΩ balanced)
- Max Output Level: +22 dBu
- Output Impedance: 120Ω (30Ω with HEAT on)
- Nominal Audio Level: +4 dBu
- Enclosure: 2U rackmount, 140 mm deep
- Weight: 2.7 kg (unit), 3.5 kg shipping
- Power: 100–240VAC adapter included, 18W max (2W standby)
- Shipping Dimensions: 60 x 30 x 20 cm
The Bettermaker Valve Stereo Passive Equalizer is the ultimate hybrid equalizer for mastering engineers and audio professionals who demand the highest level of sonic flexibility and recall precision — all while embracing the analog soul of tubes and transformers.