D.W. FEARN

VT-5M

Mastering EQs

Mastering equalizer, true stereo operation, passive LC EQ, Class-A 6072 tube stages, transformer-balanced output, stepped frequency and gain controls.

$18,299.00 CAD
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Description

The D.W. Fearn VT-5M Mastering Equalizer is a hand-built, true-stereo tube equalizer designed for precise tonal shaping in professional recording and mastering environments. A single set of controls adjusts both channels simultaneously, helping maintain consistent stereo balance. Its signal path combines Class-A 6072 tube amplification with passive LC equalization, custom-made inductors and transformers, and transformer-balanced output circuitry. High-quality stepped rotary switches provide repeatable settings, making it well suited to mastering sessions where accurate recall and closely matched stereo processing are important.

The VT-5M provides independent low cut, low boost, mid cut, high boost, and high cut sections that can be combined freely. Low and high shelving controls allow complementary boost and cut techniques, while the mid-cut section changes from a broad response at modest attenuation to a narrower response at deeper settings, useful for anything from reducing midrange congestion to addressing a specific resonance. The high-boost section also offers selectable bandwidth settings, and overall level can be adjusted in 1 dB steps from -5 to +5 dB. Its broad selection of stepped frequencies and gain settings encourages deliberate, repeatable adjustments without making operation unnecessarily complicated.

Designed around professional +4 dBm line-level signals, the VT-5M uses balanced XLR connections and is optimized for feeding modern bridging inputs. Eight 6072A vacuum tubes are used throughout its amplifier stages, while regulated solid-state power supplies support stable operation. The unit fits a standard 19-inch rack and requires adequate ventilation because of the heat generated by its tube circuitry. Together, its passive EQ design, tube amplification, stereo-linked controls, and carefully selected components make the VT-5M a purpose-built analog processor for detailed frequency shaping and mastering work.

Features

True Stereo Equalization
A single set of controls adjusts both channels together, making stereo mastering changes simple and consistent.

Passive Equalization
Uses passive equalization circuitry for smooth, natural frequency shaping without unnecessary active processing.

Vacuum Tube Signal Path
Class-A vacuum tube amplification gives the equalizer its distinctive analog character and musical response.

Independent EQ Controls
Low, mid, and high frequency controls can be used independently or combined for flexible tonal shaping.

Low Frequency Cut and Boost
Separate controls let you reduce unwanted low-frequency energy while adding weight and fullness where needed.

Midrange Cut
Helps clean up muddy midrange frequencies or target unwanted resonances in a recording.

High Frequency Boost
Adds presence, clarity, and openness with selectable tonal shaping.

Adjustable High-Frequency Bandwidth
Lets you control how broadly or narrowly the high-frequency boost affects the sound.

High Frequency Cut
Smoothly reduces excessive high-frequency content and can help control unwanted noise.

Adjustable Input Level
Makes it easy to accommodate different source levels and manage the overall level through the equalizer.

Transformer-Balanced Audio
Custom transformers provide balanced input and output interfacing suited to professional recording systems.

Precision Switching
High-quality rotary switches provide repeatable settings for dependable mastering adjustments.

Custom Audio Components
Custom-made transformers and inductors are used throughout the audio path to support the unit's specialized design.

Hand-Built Construction
Each unit is individually built, tested, and listened to before shipment for consistent performance.

Designed for Long-Term Studio Use
High-quality components and robust construction are intended to provide reliable operation for many years.

Specifications

General Specifications
Device Type: Stereo mastering equalizer
Channel Configuration: True stereo; single control set simultaneously adjusts both channels
Circuit Topology: Class-A vacuum tube amplification; passive LC equalization
Vacuum Tubes: 8 × 6072A dual triodes
Nominal Source Impedance: 600 ohms
Input Load Impedance: 40 kΩ
Minimum Input Level: -20 dBm nominal
Maximum Input Level at 20 Hz: +25 dB
Nominal Gain: 0 dB

Audio Performance
Frequency Response: ±0.5 dB, 20 Hz–20 kHz
Extended Frequency Response: -3 dB at 0.5 Hz and 80 kHz
THD + Noise: <0.10%, 20 Hz–20 kHz
Intermodulation Distortion: <0.80%, SMPTE
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 82 dB minimum
Maximum Output Level: +22 dBm, unterminated
Output Type: Low-impedance, transformer-balanced
Recommended Output Load: Balanced bridging input, 20 kΩ or greater

Equalization
Low Cut Frequencies: 30, 40, 100, 400 Hz
Low Cut Range: 0 to -10 dB shelving, 1 dB steps
Low Boost Frequencies: 20, 40, 60, 100, 140 Hz
Low Boost Range: 0 to +10 dB shelving, 1 dB steps
Mid Cut Frequencies: 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 Hz
Mid Cut Range: 0 to -10 dB, 1 dB steps
High Boost Frequencies: 1.5, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 16 kHz
High Boost Range: 0 to +10 dB, 1 dB steps
High Boost Q: 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.4, 1.7
High Cut Frequencies: 1.7, 4, 10, 28 kHz
High Cut Range: 0 to -10 dB shelving, 1 dB steps
Gain Adjustment: -5 to +5 dB, 1 dB steps
Gain Reference: +4 dBm
Control Operation: Independent; usable in any combination

Audio Connections
Input Connector: Female XLR
Output Connector: Male XLR
Connector Contacts: Gold-plated
XLR Pin 1: Ground/shield
XLR Pin 2: High/positive
XLR Pin 3: Low/negative
Input Configuration: Balanced bridging
Output Configuration: Transformer-balanced
Unbalanced Output Compatibility: Supported

Circuitry
Equalization Circuit: Passive LC inductor/capacitor
EQ Inductors: Custom-made
EQ Capacitors: Polystyrene or polypropylene
Rotary Controls: Semi-sealed silver-contact switches
Input Amplifier: Two-stage Class-A 6072 triode
Output Amplifier: Two-stage Class-A 6072 triode with cathode-follower output
Input Transformer: Custom-made
Output Transformer: Custom-made
Power Supplies: Solid-state, fully regulated
Tube Filament Supply: Regulated DC
Power Transformer: Custom toroidal

Electrical
AC Input: 115 or 230 VAC
Supported Mains Range: 110–130 VAC or 220–240 VAC
Mains Frequency: 50/60 Hz
Power Consumption: 85 W
Mains Voltage Selector: 115/230 VAC
Power Switch: Rear panel
Line Fuse: Rear panel

Dimensions and Weight
Width: 19 in (49 cm)
Height: 5.25 in (14 cm)
Depth: 9 in (23 cm)
Weight: 24 lb (11 kg)
Shipping Weight: 30 lb (14 kg)
Rack Compatibility: Standard 19-inch rack
Rack Height: 3U

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