Inward Connections DEQ-1

Characteristics 

The Inward Connections DEQ-1 is an in depth stereo parametric equalizer, designed for mastering purpose. The studio that I work at has a mastering room on site where we've got the DEQ-1 as the main outboard EQ. I don't know the types of connections that it has in the back since ours is permanently hooked up within a chain and I've never had to move it for any reason. It is rack mountable and will take up four rack spaces.

Utilization 

The Inward Connections DEQ-1 is made up of six EQ bands, each with a great deal of control available. The two outer bands are high and low pass filters which can be turned on or off independently, while the middle four bands each have parameters for gain (12 db of room), frequency, and a band width control. Those who know the ins and outs of parametric EQ's should be able to handle the DEQ-1 rather easily, so I don't think a manual is necessary.

Sound Quality 

The sound of the Inward Connections DEQ-1 is unlike any EQ that I've heard before. It's extremely clean and precise and you can pretty much do anything you want with it if you know what you're doing. Of course it takes a highly trained mastering engineer to have complete control over this, as I'm not one myself. This could be used for mixing, but at the price it's not worth it for anything other than a go to mastering EQ. Even if you're not a mastering engineer, the DEQ-1 is still just a parametric EQ and is easily manipulative if you know what you're going for.

Overall Opinion 

The Inward Connections DEQ-1 is really the ultimate mastering EQ. It's no longer being made and I don't think too many of them were made to begin with since it's so expensive. You can still probably get your hands on one however if you're really determined and have a ton of money, as you would need even if you were to buy one new. That being said, the DEQ-1 is going to be a huge help in any mastering situations.