The TK Audio TEQ Dual-Band M/S Baxandall Mastering Equaliser is a stepped, relay-switched stereo mastering EQ that combines a classic 1950s Baxandall topology with modern mid-side processing, extended frequency coverage, ultra-fine gain resolution and high-headroom analogue circuitry for transparent and musical mix bus control. Overview TEQ reinterprets the legendary Baxandall EQ design for contemporary mastering and high-end mixing environments. It delivers exceptionally smooth tonal shaping while adding modern precision, mid-side routing, stepped controls and extended bandwidth performance. The circuit uses no electrolytic capacitors in the audio path and runs on extra-wide bandwidth electronics to preserve transient detail, low-frequency depth and high-frequency openness even at extreme operating levels. Dual-Band Baxandall Architecture TEQ provides two wide-range equaliser bands built around a low-Q Baxandall topology. Each band operates at Q 0.5 to allow broad and musical tone shaping without introducing harsh resonances. Both bands switch between shelf and peak behaviour, enabling corrective shaping, tonal enhancement or broadband contouring within a single signal path. The low band spans from 30 Hz to 720 Hz and targets sub bass, bass weight, warmth and low-mid density. The high band covers 1 kHz to 24 kHz and controls presence, air, clarity and brilliance. Relay-switched capacitor networks select each frequency point to maintain accuracy and channel consistency. Ultra-Fine Stepped Gain Control TEQ offers stepped cut and boost resolution down to 0.25 dB, which allows surgical tonal balancing and precise recall for mastering workflows. Gain steps scale gradually up to 4 dB and an extended mode increases the range to plus or minus 8 dB for more assertive tonal reshaping. This stepped architecture guarantees repeatable settings, perfect stereo tracking and fast session recall. Extended Filtering Section A built-in high-pass filter removes subsonic energy, rumble and unwanted low-frequency build-up with a 12 dB per octave slope and a gentle Q. A complementary low-pass filter smooths brittle top-end energy and controls excessive brightness. Both filters operate with stepped frequency selections and apply identically to both channels to preserve stereo balance. Mid-Side Processing and Cue Monitoring TEQ integrates a full mid-side matrix that allows independent equalisation of centre and side information. This design supports width control, focused vocal presence, refined ambience shaping and spatial enhancement. A dedicated cue system enables monitoring of left, right, mid or side channels directly from the front panel, providing critical feedback during precision mastering tasks. Relay Switching and Gold Contact Signal Path All audio routing and frequency selection rely on gold-contact relays to maintain low contact resistance and long-term reliability. This architecture preserves signal integrity, minimises distortion and guarantees consistent performance over time. High-Headroom Analogue Performance TEQ handles up to +27 dBu on both input and output stages and maintains a frequency response of 20 Hz to 80 kHz within 0.1 dB. The circuit delivers extremely low harmonic distortion and a wide dynamic range that ensures transparent operation even when driven hard. Low output impedance allows reliable interfacing with any professional analogue chain. Why Choose TEQ Delivers smooth, musical tonal shaping that enhances mixes without introducing harshness Provides ultra-fine stepped control for precise mastering decisions and instant recall Enables mid-side processing for advanced stereo imaging and spatial refinement Preserves clarity and punch through wide bandwidth, relay-switched analogue circuitry Handles modern high-level signals without distortion or loss of detail
