EarthQuaker Devices unleashes ZEQD-Pre EF86 Tube Preamp with 3-Band EQ and Boost

There has been a significant pattern of pedal builders making tube preamps recently, and this versatile variant totally fits that bill.

EQD describes it as a combined Preamp, Headphone Amp, Boost, DI and EQ. The device has a super handy left-hand control panel which includes 1/4" Headphone Out, DIN DI Direct Out, Ground Lift Button, and Cab Bypass Button.

The Cab Bypass Button is indicative that there is an analog Cab simulator onboard - for going direct out - which you can bypass if you’re using this more as one of many gain pedals.

The name indicates that this circuit is derived from Dr. Z Amplification’s signature tube amps.

The EF86 Pentode Tube onboard is the same one that gives many Dr. Z amplifiers their pristine hi-fi tone and makes for such a responsive pedal platform.

Controls - Boost, Level, Bass, Middle, Treble, Boost Footswich (+ EQ Bypass), Activate Footswitch.

The ZEQD-Pre goes for $399 / £399 and equivalent at International dealers.

You can read up more about the ZEQD-Pre on the EQD website.

I am kind of on a roll with Tube Preamp pedals at the moment, and this one is already in the references collection - I’ve only had it for a couple of days so far - and I’m loving it already!