Tone controls? Sorry about the heresy.


I need tone controls! Too much of the music I listen to needs it. A lot of 70's, 80's, 90's, 00's rock. Some acoustic music. Who makes excellent preamps with tone controls OR what other box can I use that won't degrade the sound too much? Currently use a PS Audio 4.5, Adcom GFA-555II, JPW speakers.
ztakdivad
Tone controls do not serve the same purpose as an equalizer. Tone controls are good for quick and easy improvement of a particular recording. An equalizer is used to compensate for room and speaker deficiencies. Setting up an equalizer takes the better part of a day (unless your unit has an automatic equalization function, like the Behringer DEQ2496).
Judging by your other gear, you might like an older Carver C series pre. These have enough knobs to satisfy any knob junkie. They have a fairly complex tone control section - more than just a bass and treble knob.
Sorry to bump this old thread but I have to agree with Mcgarick.

I just got a babied Accuphase C-200 and I'm having no issues with the tone controls. They are very good and I'm having fun again adjusting the sound. I guess when done right tone controls can be a good thing.
I will not live without remote volume and remote balance control from my listening chair. I also like automatic Fletcher Munson EQ for low volume listening (misnamed ’loudness’ (essentially low volume bass boost) if properly implemented.

This Chase Remote Line Controller has that as well as remote tone controls, mute, input switching.

this one is sold but has all the info

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649391586-chase-technologies-rlc1-remote-line-controller/images/1694271/

’absolutely no noise or distortion, Signal to Noise 105 db’ is true, no one can tell if it is in or out of my system. I use 2, and have a spare, I’m not living without one.

a slight balance tweak can make a surprising difference to some tracks.

they pop up for sale occasionally
The Schiit Loki EQ didn't exist 11 years ago when this thread was started, but it does now and it's an amazing little thing...I use mine sparingly but when needed it does the job perfectly. A no noise little gem, and at a silly price.