IGS Audio RB 500 ME – Stereo Pultec-Style

Mastering EqualizerThe IGS Audio RB 500 ME brings passive Pultec-style tonal shaping to a stereo 500 Series module. Occupying just two slots, the Rubber Bands Mastering Edition combines passive filters, a solid-state Class-A amplifier stage and transformer-balanced inputs and outputs.One set of controls adjusts both channels together, making the RB 500 ME a practical choice for stereo mix buses, stems and mastering chains. Separate low-frequency boost and cut selectors add flexibility beyond the traditional shared-frequency approach.

Shape bass weight and definition independently

The low-frequency section is one of the RB 500 ME’s most useful features. Instead of sharing a single frequency selector, bass boost and attenuation each have their own control.Choose the same frequency for the familiar Pultec-style boost-and-cut interaction, or select different frequencies to build another response. You can add low-end weight while reducing a higher bass region, giving you more control over the balance between depth and thickness.Because the boost and attenuation curves differ, using them together does not simply cancel the adjustment. Their interaction creates a combined response that is worth exploring on kick drums, bass instruments, drum buses and complete mixes.

Add high-frequency detail and shape the balance

Separate high-frequency boost and attenuation sections let you work on brightness and top-end balance without relying on a single treble shelf.The bandwidth control changes the focus of the high-frequency boost. Use a broader setting for a gentle tonal lift or a narrower setting when you want a more concentrated adjustment. Combining boost and attenuation provides another way to shape the resulting curve.This is a tone-shaping workflow rather than a substitute for a fully parametric corrective EQ. The RB 500 ME is designed around interacting curves and selected frequencies, not unrestricted surgical control.

Shared stereo controls for a straightforward workflow

A common set of controls operates on the left and right channels together. There is no need to duplicate every adjustment across two separate front panels when processing a stereo source.Use the RB 500 ME on a mix bus to explore low-end balance and treble detail, or place it across stereo drums, keyboards and other stems. A single mono source can also be processed through either audio channel.The shared controls do not provide independent left/right EQ settings. If your workflow requires different adjustments for each side, you will need a processor with separate channel controls.

Passive filters with a Class-A solid-state amplifier

The EQ section is passive, while an active Class-A circuit provides amplification. Unlike a tube Pultec-style equalizer, the RB 500 ME uses a solid-state amplifier stage.IGS Custom transformers balance both the inputs and outputs. Their contribution, together with the filters and amplifier circuit, depends on the source, level and settings. The design offers an analogue alternative for tonal shaping without relying on a promise of automatic warmth or improved stereo width.

ELMA frequency selectors and hard-wire bypass

ELMA switches provide defined frequency selections, while the boost, attenuation and bandwidth controls let you shape the response by ear.For manual recall, document the complete settings using a recall sheet or session notes. The RB 500 ME does not offer automatic DAW recall or plug-in control.Hard-wire bypass lets you compare the processed signal with the original route. Keep listening levels comparable when judging an adjustment so that additional loudness does not become the deciding factor.

Two-slot integration for your 500 Series rack

The RB 500 ME requires two adjacent slots in a compatible powered 500 Series chassis. Audio connections and power are provided through the chassis; the module is not a standalone mains-powered unit.The manufacturer specifies 7 W power consumption, a nominal operating level of +4 dBu, a maximum input level of +20 dBu and a maximum output level of +22 dBu. Check your rack’s power capacity and leave sufficient signal headroom when applying boost.

Is the RB 500 ME right for your studio?

Choose the IGS Audio RB 500 ME if you want stereo Pultec-style EQ with shared controls, flexible low-frequency boost/cut interaction and a compact two-slot format.It suits engineers who prefer building tonal balance with interacting analogue filters rather than adjusting every parameter independently. From restrained mix-bus changes to more pronounced shaping on individual sources, it offers a direct, hands-on approach.

Discover the complete IGS Audio portfolio: IGS Audio Studio Equipment – One LA 500, V8 Bus Compressor & more.

IGS Audio RB 500 ME - Stereo 'Pultec-style' EQ

Name: IGS Audio RB 500 ME - Stereo 'Pultec-style' EQ
Brand: IGS AUDIO
Price: 1019 EUR
Availability: InStock

1.019,00 €

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Antal

What is the IGS Audio RB 500 ME?

The IGS Audio RB 500 ME is a stereo Pultec-style equalizer that occupies two slots in a 500 Series chassis. It combines passive EQ filters with an active Class-A driver circuit and transformer-balanced inputs and outputs. ME stands for Mastering Edition.

Is the IGS Audio RB 500 ME a tube equalizer?

No. The RB 500 ME uses passive filters and an active Class-A driver circuit, not a tube amplification stage. Its Pultec-style design refers to its approach to equalization rather than a tube-based signal path.

Is the IGS Audio RB 500 ME suitable for mastering and mix-bus processing?

Yes. The RB 500 ME is designed as a stereo mastering equalizer and can be used for tonal shaping on a mix bus, stereo stems or a complete mix. Its passive filters provide a different workflow from a fully parametric EQ with independently adjustable frequency, gain and bandwidth for every band.

Can low-frequency boost and cut be used together?

Yes. The RB 500 ME provides separate frequency selectors for low-frequency boost and cut. Using both sections together lets you shape the combined low-frequency response rather than simply applying a single bass boost or cut.

Are all controls on the IGS Audio RB 500 ME stepped?

No. The manufacturer specifies stepped frequency selectors and also describes the use of potentiometers. The RB 500 ME should therefore not be described as having fully stepped controls throughout. Record the switch and knob positions when documenting settings for manual recall.

Does the IGS Audio RB 500 ME have transformer-balanced inputs and outputs?

Yes. The current manufacturer specification lists IGS Custom transformers at both inputs and outputs. The specified balanced input impedance is 10 kΩ, and the balanced output impedance is 600 Ω.

Does the IGS Audio RB 500 ME have a hard-wire bypass?

Yes. IGS Audio specifies a hard-wire bypass, allowing the EQ processing path to be bypassed when comparing the processed signal with the original.

What operating levels does the IGS Audio RB 500 ME support?

The nominal operating level is +4 dBu. The manufacturer specifies a maximum input level of +20 dBu and a maximum output level of +22 dBu. Allow sufficient headroom when applying boost, particularly when feeding converters or other level-sensitive equipment.

What rack and power supply does the IGS Audio RB 500 ME require?

The RB 500 ME requires a compatible powered 500 Series chassis and occupies two adjacent slots. It is not a standalone mains-powered unit. The manufacturer specifies 7 W power consumption; check that your chassis has sufficient power capacity for the complete module configuration.

How does the RB 500 ME differ from the standard RB 500?

The RB 500 ME is a stereo module occupying two 500 Series slots, while the standard RB 500 is a single-channel module. The current manufacturer specifications also list different boost/cut ranges: ±20 dB for the RB 500 ME and ±15 dB for the standard RB 500. They should be treated as separate products rather than interchangeable versions with identical specifications.
Key features

Stereo Pultec-style equalizer in a two-slot 500 Series module.

Passive filter section with an active Class-A solid-state amplifier.

Shared controls for both audio channels.

Separate low-frequency boost and attenuation selectors.

High-frequency boost with adjustable bandwidth.

Separate high-frequency attenuation section.

ELMA frequency-selection switches.

IGS Custom input and output transformers.

Hard-wire bypass.

Compatible powered 500 Series chassis required.

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IGS Audio RB 500 ME - Stereo 'Pultec-style' EQ

IGS Audio RB 500 ME Recall Sheet

IGS Audio RB 500 ME FAQ

Key features