DW Fearn VT-5M Stereo Mastering Equalizer

The DW Fearn VT-5M Stereo Mastering Equalizer brings the unmistakable depth, dimension, and musicality of Class-A tube circuitry to the precision-driven world of mastering.

Built around passive LC equalization, eight 6072 dual triodes, custom magnetics, and true stereo control, the VT-5M gives mastering engineers an exceptionally refined analog EQ for shaping complete mixes with confidence. Its broad, musical curves encourage tonal decisions that feel natural rather than processed, while precision stepped controls make settings easy to repeat when recalls are part of the job. Designed specifically for stereo processing, the VT-5M uses a single set of high-precision controls to adjust both channels simultaneously, maintaining consistent left-to-right operation while keeping the workflow straightforward. The pure Class-A tube audio path is paired with hand-selected input and output transformers and custom passive LC inductors, creating an analog signal path designed for generous headroom, low distortion, and wide bandwidth. The equalization architecture provides independent Low Cut, Low Boost, Mid Cut, High Boost, and High Cut sections, allowing several stages of tonal shaping to work together. Low Boost offers shelving enhancement across five selectable frequencies, while Low Cut provides four shelving frequencies for controlling excessive low-end energy. The Mid Cut section provides six frequencies with a Q that becomes progressively sharper as attenuation increases. High Boost offers eight frequency choices along with adjustable bandwidth, while High Cut can gently control upper-frequency content and is useful when addressing noise or unwanted energy at the top of the spectrum. A stepped Gain Trim provides final level adjustment from -5 to +5 dB. Like other DW Fearn equipment, the VT-5M is a boutique, American-made piece of professional analog hardware rather than a mass-produced processor. Each unit is individually engineered, wired, burned in, and tested by hand, making the VT-5M a compelling mastering equalizer for engineers who value precision, analog character, long-term reliability, and equipment built to remain part of the studio for decades.

DW Fearn VT-5M Stereo Mastering Equalizer Features

• True stereo mastering equalizer with a single set of controls operating both channels simultaneously
• Pure Class-A vacuum tube audio path utilizing eight 6072 dual triodes
• Passive LC equalization circuitry for smooth and musical tonal shaping
• Hand-selected and custom input and output transformers
• Custom-made passive LC inductors
• Independent Low Cut, Low Boost, Mid Cut, High Boost, and High Cut equalization sections
• Variable-Q Mid Cut response becomes more focused as attenuation is increased
• Adjustable High Boost bandwidth provides additional control over upper-frequency shaping
• High Cut section can be used for noise reduction and control of unwanted high-frequency content
• Precision silver-contact rotary switches provide repeatable settings for mastering recall
• Stepped Gain Trim allows precise output level adjustment
• Designed for high headroom, wide bandwidth, and low distortion
• Hand-built, burned in, and individually tested in the USA
• Boutique construction designed for long-term professional studio use

DW Fearn VT-5M Stereo Mastering Equalizer Specifications

• Circuitry: Pure Class-A triode vacuum tube audio path utilizing eight 6072A dual triodes.
• Input Impedance: 40k ohms balanced-bridging (accepts 600 ohm nominal sources).
• Frequency Response: ± 0.5 dB 20 cps to 20 kc; -3 dB @ 0.5 cps & 80 kc
• Distortion: THD + Noise < 0.10% (20 cps to 20 kc)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 82 dB minimum.
• Maximum Output Level: +22 dBm unterminated.
• Equalization: Passive LC circuitry with custom-made inductors and silver-contact rotary switches (featuring adjustable low cut, low boost, mid cut, high boost, high cut, high bandwidth Q, and gain trim).
• Gain Trim Range: -5 to +5 dB adjustable in 1 dB steps
• Power Requirements: 115 or 230 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 85 W

DW Fearn VT-5M Stereo Mastering Equalizer Includes

• DW Fearn VT-5M Stereo Mastering Equalizer
• Power Cable
• Manufacturer Warranty