Sep 27 2020 43 mins 6
In this episode, I describe how the D.W. Fearn VT-4 and VT-5 Equalizers came about. I start with some history of equalization, and then my experiences with various eqs and how that influenced the design of the VT-5. I talk about the design process, including the reasoning behind the choices I made in the frequencies and the curves, and the design of the amplifiers in the VT-5. Then I explain how I use the VT-5 on the sessions I do, which is not meant to be a tutorial on equalizing, since everyone has a different style, but as an illustration of one approach to using the equalizer. In 2020, we made some internal changes to the VT-5, which does not change the sound of it at all, but did allow us to eliminate the small, low-speed cooling fan. A plug-in version of the VT-5 is available from Acustica Audio, and I explain the design process behind it. The VT-5 has become an indispensable tool for many engineers, mixers, and mastering facilities. I originally designed it to fill I need I had, and it has been very gratifying to see the acceptance it has gained in the music recording world.
