Description
This MKPE has been recapped using premium-quality Panasonic capacitors and the power supply rebuilt with larger smoothing capacitors. Caps in the audio path have been replaced with higher-value bipolar caps to improve audio quality
Pots & switches have been cleaned & lubricated and the case repainted. Tested & working 100%. Photos show the EQ for sale
Part of the small range of MOOG pro-audio equipment, the MKPE is a three-band parametric equaliser in the traditional black & white MOOG style
The three bands have plenty of overlap – they span 31-400, 62-8000 and 125-16000 Hz – so it’s easy to nail problem frequencies or boost to the moon. Maximum boost & cut are 20 dB giving great scope for EQ changes – and for overloading
The MKPE has an unusual Drive circuit which sets the gain structure of the unit. Gain sets the overall output level but Drive sets the level in the eq section. Drive reduces the input level while increasing the output, giving no change in overall gain
In use the MKPE is a neat parametric EQ with lovely control feel and bands that can be varied from super-narrow to very broad. Minimum Q (widest bandwidth) is marked as 4 octaves and narrowest is 0.25 or 1/4 octave. At wider bandwidths it’s a smooth, articulate equaliser with no vices. It lives up to its reputation as a great bass equaliser – it’s particularly good at low frequencies, giving real control over bass synths or the weight of a drum kit
The MKPE is not a bland, subtle device like most modern equalisers but more of a tool for making radical changes. There’s plenty of boost & cut available. Each band can make huge, broad changes and you never find yourself wanting more bands
“The Moog parametric is an unassuming 2U box that really delivered powerful sound shaping… it’s unusually forgiving and musical”
“Don’t overlook a vintage Moog 3 band parametric. They’re very effective EQs”
“I own two of these puppies and since I learned how to properly abuse them they have gone from my consider selling list to my desert island list”
“One of my few regrets selling gear. Used to use one in my bass rack but I miss it even more now that I have a studio. Love the drive function and everything about it is great”
“I used to have a pair… very cool on bass frequencies”
“The lower end of the mid band is where it’s at for me on these. I (at least at the moment) prefer mine on bass to my Pultec”
“I have one and LOVE it. Super huge low end thickening. Lives along side Massive Passive, Pultecs, and Trident EQs and sees plenty of action”
“I have 2. Great EQ’s. Very thick and warm”
“This is one of those parametrics that gets nice tones with boost and a deep notch that actually works.”
The MKPE is a rare equaliser with character. I searched for a MOOG EQ in the 1980s but never managed to locate one. This one was sourced in the USA then refurbished & recapped in our workshop
