NEU-W492
by Antelope Audio · EQ · German console parametric EQ
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NEU-W492 is a four-band parametric EQ modeled on a 1980s German console module known for a hi-fi character.
Its overlapping bands aim to be transparent and phase-coherent with a smooth top and tight lows, for $129.
Best for: Vocals, Acoustic Instruments, Mix Bus, Mastering. Genres: all genres.
Keywords: mastering, clean, hi-fi, transparent, 80s, mixing, mono-compatible, smooth, tight, vocals, full mix, hardware emulation, subtle, 70s, airy, analog-sounding, bus processing, circuit-modelled, heavy, mix bus, static, subscription, warm.
What it does
NEU-W492 is Antelope Audio's model of a German console EQ module from the late 1970s and early 1980s, known for a "hi-fi" character in European studios. The developer pitches it as clean, precise frequency control with a natural, open sound, for both subtle shaping and heavy tone sculpting.
- Four parametric bands: with overlapping frequency ranges, so more than one band can work on the same area.
- Phase-coherent operation: described as transparent, which suits mixing and mastering.
- Midrange: the developer singles out midrange work as a particular strength.
- Tone: a warm analog character with a smooth, open top end and tight low end.
- Bypass: each band has its own bypass, plus a master bypass for the whole unit.
- Circuit modelling: based on the circuitry of the original console module.
Version 1.0.1 needs no Antelope hardware. A Synergy Core version also runs in real time on compatible Antelope interfaces. A trial is available through the Antelope Cosmos subscription. Neither source gives the band frequency or gain ranges; those are in the separate user manual.
Source: Antelope Audio product page
When to use it
NEU-W492 is for adding subtle, clean console tone rather than obvious vintage colour. Compared with Pro-Q 4 or TDR Nova it is much simpler, with four bands, no dynamic EQ and no spectrum display. It is cleaner and more hi-fi than Antelope's British and American console models, and gentler than Pultec-style boxes such as the Pultec Passive EQ Collection or PuigTec EQs. Next to Kirchhoff-EQ, which emulates many analog curves in one modern EQ, it gives you one specific console sound.
- Best for: clean tonal balance on vocals, acoustic instruments, midrange shaping and mastering.
- Genres: any; especially acoustic and classical recordings where transparency matters.
- Look elsewhere if: you want obvious vintage colour (BAE-1073 or VEQ-55A) or surgical, visual editing (Pro-Q 4).
Where to buy
- KVR Marketplace: $129
- Plugin Boutique: $129
- PluginFox: $129
- AudioDeluxe: $129
- Antelope Audio: see store
Tutorials and reviews
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