Black Box Analog Design HG-Q Tube-driven EQ and Saturator with Digital Plugin Control

The Black Box Analog Design HG-Q is a 3U boutique hardware EQ and saturator that offers digital plug-in control over its true-analog, tube-driven circuitry. Far from a traditional EQ or clone of a classic, the HG-Q is a revolutionary creative powerhouse that reshapes and enhances your sound in ways traditional EQs could only dream of.

The HG-Q combines unique topology, flexible tube saturation, and the ability to cut and boost simultaneously to create a totally new kind of audio enhancement tool.

This dual-mono, stereo, and M/S-capable EQ offers six fully independent and interactive bands for creative frequency shaping and sculpting, combined with acclaimed tube saturation circuitry that adds rich harmonic detail, depth and energy without compromising clarity — taking analog EQ and enhancement to a new level of integration and flexibility.

A standout feature is the saturation circuit, which adds rich harmonic content without muddying transients or mix clarity. Unlike conventional saturation, the HG-Q’s circuit brings out lower-level details and enhances the mix's density, resulting in a fuller, more vibrant sound.

HG-Q creates astonishing new possibilities for creativity and workflow.

The heart of the HG-Q is a topology where the bands interact with each other in complex ways, allowing the HG-Q to deliver incredible sonic shaping well beyond the scope of traditional equalizers.

The 2X mode further expands the EQ’s range, allowing up to 16 dB boosts and cuts with intensified saturation that brings out every harmonic nuance. The result is a more cohesive, balanced, and musically engaging sound, achievable even at aggressive settings.

By boosting, cutting, adding saturation, and switching between series and parallel configurations, you will achieve wildly complex interactions and curves impossible on traditional EQs.

• Six Independent Bands per channel:
Each band provides separate boost and cut circuits with independent gain, Q, and frequency selection controls, allowing for flexible and musical interactions.

• Dynamic Phase Interactions:
The unique analog topology creates complex phase interactions between bands, enhancing the harmonic relationship of frequencies in a mix. This approach allows for unique types of enhancements to bring out the best in sources.

• Tube Saturation:
Integrated tube saturation stages within the boost circuits deliver harmonic richness, density and analog character, adding depth and dimension to any audio material.

• Solid-State Precision:
Solid-state cut filters guarantee clarity and precision when removing problematic frequencies or when compensating for boosts.

• 2X Mode:
Engage 2X mode to double the control range of both boosts and cuts, enabling dramatic tonal reshaping with intensified harmonic saturation.

• Flexible Operation Modes:
Seamlessly switch between stereo, mid-side (M/S), dual mono, and mono modes to adapt to any workflow or creative requirement. M/S processing opens up new dimensions for stereo imaging and control.

• Analog Craftsmanship:
Encased in a 3U rack-mount chassis, the HG-Q combines reliability and modern design with classic analog aesthetics. Each unit is built to exacting standards, ensuring durability and performance in demanding studio environments.

• Interactive Control:
With series and parallel configurations available, the HG-Q offers nuanced and dramatic ways to sculpt your sound, opening up endless possibilities for tonal experimentation and reshaping of sounds and mixes.

• Comprehensive Visual Feedback:
Intuitive LED indicators and responsive displays provide immediate, actionable insights, streamlining the creative process while maintaining precision.

• Hybrid Integration:
Seamless communication between hardware and plugin opens up entirely new possibilities and hybrid workflows.