WesAudio ngTubeEQ User Manual
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WesAudio ngTubeEQ User Manual

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Summary of Contents for WesAudio ngTubeEQ

  • Page 2 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 www.WesAudio.com ngTubeEQ User Manual Copyright 2024 by WesAudio...
  • Page 3 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 ngTubeEQ Thank You for the purchase of Next Generation Tube Equalizer with digital recall. With kind regards Radoslaw Wesolowski and Michal Weglicki...
  • Page 4 With its lush tonal quality and intuitive digital control, the ngTubeEQ is set to become an indispensable tool in studios worldwide, continuing our tradition of blending vintage charm with contemporary functionality. Experience the best of both worlds – the soul of vintage sound...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 TABLE OF CONTENTS Main Features ............................7 Hardware ..............................8 2.1. Specification ............................. 8 2.2. Front Panel and Main Functions ....................... 9 2.3. Rear panel............................... 14 2.4. Audio Signal Connectivity ........................16 Analog Processing ........................... 17 3.1.
  • Page 6 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 4.3. How to check Firmware version ......................40 4.4. How to perform firmware upgrade ......................41 4.5. Set up GCon Connection ........................42 4.5.1. USB ..............................43 4.5.2. Ethernet .............................. 44 4.5.2.1. Default network configuration via DHCP..................45 4.5.2.2.

  • Page 7: Main Features

    100% Analog Parametric Tube Equalizer: The ngTubeEQ offers pure analog processing with a substantial 26dBu headroom. • Custom Passive Section: At its core, the ngTubeEQ features a passive section built around custom inductors for exceptional sound quality. • Four Passive Bands with Extensive Range: Boasting 12 selectable frequency points per band, covering from 22Hz to 28kHz.

  • Page 8: Hardware

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Hardware This chapter will go through all analog features and explain all hardware aspects of ngTubeEQ. 2.1. Specification Frequency response Normal (green) 5Hz-100kHz (-0.5dB) Frequency response Tube (red) 20Hz-25kHz (0.5dB) Dynamic range 122dB THD+N Normal(green) 0.0025% (+4dBu), 0.009% (+18dBu)

  • Page 9: Front Panel And Main Functions

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 2.2. Front Panel and Main Functions...
  • Page 10 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Passive EQ Section GAIN KNOB: i. Adjusts boost or cut within +/-5dB or +/-15dB ranges, based on the GAIN MODE selection. ii. Pushing the knob toggles the band’s bypass ON or OFF. iii. A double push inverses the GAIN value.
  • Page 11 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1...
  • Page 12 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 The unit facilitates manipulation of internal presets stored in its memory through the middle panel. For comprehensive details on managing these presets, including saving, loading, and editing, please consult the Internal Presets chapter. This section provides in-depth guidance on maximizing the use of preset capabilities to enhance workflow efficiency and creative flexibility.
  • Page 13 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 5dB Mode: Offers a subtler range of adjustment, suitable for fine-tuning and gentle sculpting of the audio signal. b. 15dB Mode: Provides a broader range, enabling more aggressive shaping and significant alterations to the sound.

  • Page 14: Rear Panel

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 2.3. Rear panel...
  • Page 15 This ensures the unit operates within its safety and performance specifications. Digital Management Connections: The ngTubeEQ facilitates digital management through two connection options: 3. USB: Features a USB2+ compatible port for GCon management.

  • Page 16: Audio Signal Connectivity

    2.4. Audio Signal Connectivity The ngTubeEQ is a state-of-the-art device that marries the warmth and richness of analog signal processing with the precision and flexibility of digital control. This means that while your audio signal paths are purely analog, passing through the device via XLR connections on the back panel for pristine quality, the extensive range of the unit's functions and parameters can be meticulously adjusted through a digital management protocol.

  • Page 17: Analog Processing

    3.1. Analog Signal Flow RELEVANT NOTES The ngTubeEQ remains a fully analog device, where certain features can influence one another due to its integrated design. While further details are provided in subsequent chapters, the following summary highlights key considerations regarding how specific functionalities interact within the unit: •...
  • Page 18 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 • IRON PAD Function: Positioned as the last analog circuit before the output XLR connector, the IRON PAD allows for passive signal attenuation right before it exits the unit. This feature offers additional control over transformer saturation depending on the incoming signal level. However, it's important to note that the IRON PAD setting does not affect internal clipping.

  • Page 19: Analog Processing Blocks

    These blocks represent the core of the ngTubeEQ's capability to shape and enhance audio with precision, warmth, and flexibility. This chapter delves into the purpose and functionality of each analog processing block, offering insights into how they individually and collectively contribute to the ngTubeEQ's revered sound.

  • Page 20: Thd - Total Harmonic Distortion

    The first part of the circuit engages mid-side encoding if the unit is set to M/S mode; otherwise, the signal is routed directly to each channel as is. These operational modes greatly expand the ngTubeEQ's utility in a mix, from detailed, channel-specific corrections in DUAL mode to broad, stereo-wide adjustments in STEREO mode, and nuanced spatial processing in M/S mode.

  • Page 21: Passive Equalization Section

    The THD feature in the ngTubeEQ thus stands out as a versatile tool for engineers looking to imbue their tracks with warmth, character, and presence. With its fully variable control and sophisticated design, it provides a level of saturation that can significantly enhance the sonic quality of music productions, backed by the reassurance of maintaining unity gain throughout the process.
  • Page 22 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Proportional Q mode introduces a gain range that varies according to the Q setting, allowing • the bandwidth to become narrower with higher gain settings for more focused adjustments. Independent Band Bypass: Each EQ band can be bypassed individually, enabling users to isolate the •...
  • Page 23 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 High-Mid Band: Extends from 260Hz to 11kHz, targeting the crucial mid to upper-midrange • frequencies. It can operate in Bell or High Shelf mode, allowing for nuanced adjustments or broader enhancement/cutting of the high mids, crucial for vocal presence and instrumental clarity.

  • Page 24: Passive Equalization Section - Curves

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 3.2.4. Passive Equalization Section – Curves Low-Mid Band | 1.2kHz BELL | +/-15dB | Q Min to Max The graph, illustrating filter responses at maximum and minimum gain levels (+/-15dB) across various Q settings from minimum to maximum and in Constant Q mode, specifically represents the behavior at a 1.2kHz frequency for the Low-Mid Frequency (LMF) band.
  • Page 25 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 High Band | 10kHz SHELF | +/-15dB | Q Min to Max The graph showcases the High Band's response at a 10kHz frequency in Shelf mode, with gain settings ranging from +/-15dB. It further details the impact of adjusting the Q value from minimum to maximum, offering a visual representation of how these adjustments influence the shape and extent of the EQ curve in this high- frequency range.
  • Page 26 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Low Band | 150Hz SHELF | +/-15dB | Q Min to Max The described graph illustrates the Low Band's response at a 150Hz frequency, set in Shelf mode, with adjustments ranging from +/-15dB in gain. It also explores the effects of altering the Q value from its minimum to maximum settings.
  • Page 27 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Low-Mid Band | 1.2kHz BELL | GAIN Min To Max in 2.5dB step | Q Narrow The graph represents the Low-Mid Band's performance at 1.2kHz, configured in Bell mode, with gain adjustments made from the minimum to the maximum in 2.5dB steps, all while employing a narrow Q setting.
  • Page 28 WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Low-Mid Band | 1.2kHz BELL | GAIN Min To Max in 2.5dB step | Q Wide The graph depicts the response of the Low-Mid Band at 1.2kHz in Bell mode, with gain adjustments spanning from minimum to maximum in 2.5dB increments, under a wide Q setting. This illustration highlights how the broad bandwidth affects the EQ's influence over a wider range of frequencies around the central 1.2kHz point, with each step-in gain demonstrating the capacity for both subtle and significant alterations in...

  • Page 29: High Pass Filter (Hpf)

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 3.2.5. High Pass Filter (HPF) The high-pass filter (HPF), positioned after the passive EQ section, incorporates a suite of features enhancing the unit's flexibility and sonic integrity: Bypass Options: The HPF can be completely bypassed through several methods, ensuring seamless •...

  • Page 30: Low Pass Filter (Lpf) & High Pass Filter (Hpf) Curves

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 everything from subtle high-pass filtering to more aggressive low-end roll-off. The slope can be switched by pressing the LPF encoder or remotely via the DAW plugin, providing flexibility in shaping the frequency response of the audio material.

  • Page 31: Output Modes

    Together, these stages offer the ngTubeEQ user a flexible and creative toolkit for shaping audio signals, whether the aim is to maintain the utmost fidelity to the source or to imbue the signal with the distinctive warmth and...

  • Page 32: Analog Features

    Implementing Constant Q in a Passive Circuit with Variable Q A significant achievement of the ngTubeEQ is the integration of a Constant Q passive circuit that operates seamlessly with Variable Q functionality. This innovative design allows users to switch between Proportional and Constant Q modes, depending on the needs of the session, without compromising the integrity and musicality of the EQ's passive circuitry.

  • Page 33: Listen Mode - Band Focus Feature

    EQ adjustments, ensuring that every change contributes positively to the overall mix. Bringing the Listen Mode feature to an analog EQ unit like the ngTubeEQ represents not just a technical achievement but a substantial enhancement of the analog EQ user experience. It exemplifies how innovative design can merge the beloved characteristics of analog audio equipment with the precision and functionality demanded by modern production workflows.

  • Page 34: Iron Link

    Parameter Link function: 3.3.3. Iron Link Another innovative feature of the ngTubeEQ is the ability to link the IRON PAD with the OUTPUT control in IRON mode through a dedicated GUI control. This functionality enhances the user's ability to sculpt the sound by managing the unit's gain staging with precision, allowing for creative saturation and distortion effects while maintaining unity gain.

  • Page 35: Gain Modes

    NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 3.3.4. Gain Modes The ngTubeEQ features a dual gain mode setting that allows for precision and flexibility in sound sculpting. These modes, catering to different levels of sensitivity and resolution in adjustments, highlight the unit's adaptability to various mixing and mastering requirements.
  • Page 36 This nuanced approach to EQ adjustments, with variable gain steps influenced by the selected Q mode, underscores the ngTubeEQ's sophisticated design. It allows audio professionals to tailor their use of the EQ to the task at hand, whether requiring broad adjustments for shaping the overall tone or precise tweaks for...

  • Page 37: Software Setup

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Software Setup The WesAudio software package is accessible for download to all purchasers of the corresponding hardware unit at https://www.wesaudio.com/download For information on supported plugin types and platforms, please refer to the provided link.

  • Page 38: Troubleshooting

    If you encounter any issues during the installation process, please reach out to our support team at support@wesaudio.com, and we will respond promptly to assist you. Below is a common issue along with suggestions that might help in diagnosing the problem: •...

  • Page 39: Gcon Manager

    The GCon Manager is a versatile application designed for configuration management across compatible devices. It is located within the Application folder data: • For OSX: Access it at “/Applications/WesAudio/GConManager.” • For WINDOWS: Find it in the folder chosen during the installation phase, typically “c:/Program Files x86/WesAudio/GConManager.exe”...

  • Page 40: How To Check Firmware Version

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 4.3. How to check Firmware version Each device communicates its firmware version to your workstation, establishing compatibility between your host application and the connected device. To verify or perform a firmware upgrade, please use the GConManager _CONFIG application. Additionally, the firmware version is displayed on the device's...

  • Page 41: How To Perform Firmware Upgrade

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 4.4. How to perform firmware upgrade To update the firmware, navigate to the GConManager UPGRADE section and press the “Start” button. This initiates the update process for any modules that are not currently aligned with the latest...

  • Page 42: Set Up Gcon Connection

    It's important to recognize that audio signals should be transmitted through XLR connectors. The USB and Ethernet ports are designed solely for managing unit configurations using the GCon Protocol. Broadly speaking, the ngTubeEQ supports two types of connections: • USB 2.0 or higher.

  • Page 43: Usb

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 4.5.1. USB To directly link your ngBusComp unit to your workstation, simply use a USB cable to connect it to any available USB 2.0+ port on your computer.

  • Page 44: Ethernet

    (*) In case you would like ngTubeEQ to join already existing network, most probably your workstation has IP address already set up through static configuration entry, or through DHCP (by your router).

  • Page 45: Default Network Configuration Via Dhcp

    4.5.2.1. Default network configuration via DHCP. Each ngTubeEQ unit is set to utilize DHCP by default, making it straightforward to connect your ngBusComp to your router—simply plug it in, and you're good to go! If you're interested in altering this setup, the following next chapters will guide you through changing the configuration.

  • Page 46: Enable/Disable Dhcp

    NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 4.5.2.2. Enable/Disable DHCP To toggle the DHCP setting on your ngTubeEQ unit to either enabled or disabled, follow these steps: • USB Connection: Begin by connecting your ngTubeEQ directly to your workstation using a USB cable.

  • Page 47: Set Up Static Ip Address

    • Set the IP Address: Input the IP address you wish to assign to your ngTubeEQ in the provided field and press the 'Apply' button. The unit will undergo a restart to apply the new network settings. Once it powers back up, the connection with your ngTubeEQ will be re-established under the new IP configuration.

  • Page 48: Direct Connection - Setting Ip Address On Pc/Mac

    NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 4.5.3. Direct connection – setting IP address on PC/MAC. Connecting your ngTubeEQ directly to a Mac or PC via Ethernet requires a few steps to ensure seamless communication. Here's a concise tutorial to guide you through the process:...
  • Page 49 DHCP range to avoid IP conflicts. You should now be able to communicate directly between your ngTubeEQ and computer via Ethernet, allowing for device management and control without a router or network switch.

  • Page 50: Digital Control / Recall

    In essence, ngTubeEQ's DAW plugin integration marries the rich, analog sound quality with the precision and versatility of digital control. This not only amplifies the functionality of ngTubeEQ but also elevates the music production process, offering unprecedented control and flexibility in a traditionally...

  • Page 51: Daw Plug-In

    This setup is perfect for treating separate mono sources independently—such as processing a kick drum on one channel and a snare drum on the other. In this configuration, each channel of the hardware operates as an independent mono unit, providing flexibility for targeted processing on individual tracks.

  • Page 52: Stereo Plug-In - Dual And Ms Modes

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 5.1.1. Stereo Plug-in – Dual and MS Modes...
  • Page 53 1. Undo: The Undo feature in the ngTubeEQ plug-in allows users to revert to the previous state before the most recent adjustment was made. This function is essential for quickly correcting mistakes or reassessing changes without permanent consequences to the settings.
  • Page 54 Mode – Band Focus Feature. 18. Mute: The Mute function in the ngTubeEQ plug-in allows users to enable or disable the mute feature for individual channels. This control provides a straightforward way to temporarily silence a channel without altering any of its settings, facilitating quick comparisons or isolations in the mix.

  • Page 55: Stereo Plug-In - Stereo Mode

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 27. Fast Preset Change (A/B/C): Quickly toggles between configs A/B/C without affecting connection- related parameters like the Connection ID. 5.1.2. Stereo Plug-in - Stereo Mode In Stereo mode, the Stereo plug-in shares the same controls as in Dual and MS modes. The key difference is that Stereo mode consolidates the interface to display only one channel.

  • Page 56: Mono Plug-In

    NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 5.1.3. Mono Plug-in Mono plugins offer the flexibility to connect and control each channel of the ngTubeEQ independently, making them ideal for processing separate mono sources, such as a kick drum and snare. This capability allows for comprehensive control over the analog circuit, including the ability to switch between internal presets (A/B/C), tailored for individual channel enhancements.

  • Page 57: Dual/Ms Mode - Automation When Parameter Link Is Enabled

    3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 This design philosophy emphasizes the ngTubeEQ's versatility and adaptability, allowing audio engineers to achieve detailed and characterful processing on individual mono tracks, leveraging the analog warmth and digital precision that the ngTubeEQ is known for.

  • Page 58: Other Functions

    NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Other Functions In addition to its core features, ngTubeEQ includes several other functions that enhance its versatility and user experience. These functions, while not as prominently featured as the main controls, play a crucial role in the unit's overall functionality and ease of use.

  • Page 59: Internal Memory Management

    NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 6.2. Internal Memory Management The ngTubeEQ is designed with robust internal memory management to ensure users can store and recall their preferred settings efficiently, catering to various operational scenarios and user needs. Sources of Parameter Persistency: A/B/C Presets: Directly stored in the ngTubeEQ's internal memory, these presets offer quick access to •...

  • Page 60: Abbreviations And Terms

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Abbreviations and terms GCon is a high-speed communication protocol developed to enable complete management and recall of analog devices. It's important to note that GCon is solely focused on device control and management; it does not facilitate the transfer of audio signals.

  • Page 61: Warranty

    NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 Warranty WesAudio is committed to delivering products of the highest quality, designed for durable and reliable performance over many years, assuming proper care, usage, transport, and storage. Our products come with a two-year warranty covering defects in parts and workmanship from the original date of purchase.

  • Page 62: History

    WESAUDIO 3/25/24 NGTUBEEQ USER MANUAL REV1 History Editor Version Date Description 25.04.2024 Document created. Michal Weglicki...

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