Equalizer in a Hi Fi system

I used to have the top of the line DBX equalizer. I no longer need it.

I have two BBE Sonic Maximizers. When used properly - discreetly - they subtly alter the phasing of the signal. The effect is to give more punch at the bottom, more crispness at the top. They have a bypass so I can turn them off easily on the 80% of my LPs that don’t need them.

Used to play around with that one and Aphex. Those work differently as you stated than EQ. High end EQ is more natural and true to life and indeed more resolute. I won’t deny I enjoyed their punchy sound for a while. Did you know FM radio used to broadcast using the enhancement of sonic maximizers?  Don’t know if they still do. That was why FM version sounded more punchy and enhanced than your store bought vinyl or tape or cd. 

My SS Hendyamps Michelangelo is finally shipping to me. Am excited for the new toy!  Will report here after a while once I’ve had some time with it. 

Anyone serious about tone control as hi fi as possible should check out  Hendyamps Michelangelo. It is the first unit to sound superior to my beloved Charter Oak PEQ-1 and will be replacing both of mine. Sound is stupendous, glorious!  True improvements over pure line in for many many recordings. 

Best thing about unit is that any master gain cuts are handled beautifully with no signal integrity degradation. Meaning bigger boosts are handled with aplomb and no where near distorting the line. It is another “magic box” in the analog realm to take one straight to hifi heaven. Chris Henderson builds amazing gear!