The SSQ plugin is based on the equalization part of the iconic SSL 4000 E console from the early 1980s, but Analog Obsession has designed it specifically for the model with the equalization section BROWN.
The colors used on the LF knobs are used to distinguish the type of EQ placed on a 4000 E console in editions built between 1981 and 1989, consequently, the two flavors are known as’ Brown ‘and’ EQs. Black ‘, each EQ has unique tonal character and response curves. The original SSL design, ‘BROWN,’ had a smoother Q and smaller frequency and gain ranges. As a result, getting a good musical tone quickly is a little easier. ‘BLACK’ is the newest EQ design, with a tighter Q and wider frequency and gain ranges, making it better suited to “surgical” EQ.
In SSQ, there are four equalization bands, each having a +/- 16dB increase/attenuation level knob: ‘LF’ (low frequency) band with a knob to pick frequency from 30 to 450 Hz and the ‘LB’ button to switch from the default Shelving filter to the Bell filter. The ‘LMF’ (low mid frequency) band has a frequency selection knob that ranges from 200 Hz to 2.5 kHz, as well as a knob to alter the ‘Q’ (bandwidth).
Frequency selection knob from 600 Hz to 7 kHz for the ‘HMF’ (high mid frequency) band. Also included is an ‘HF’ (high frequency) band with a frequency selection knob ranging from 1.5 to 16 kHz, as well as an ‘HB’ button to switch from the default Shelving filter to the Bell-type filter.
You will also have the High Pass (16 to 350 Hz) and Low Pass (1 to 20 kHz) filters. Handy input and output volume controls (Input / Output), which you can change between +/- 24 dB.