HVC250 Stereo 5-Band Parametric EQ

Support & Beyond
I wasn't thinking too seriously about it, but they are very approachable and knowledgeable. Got some real advice on practical uses of their gear. Shipping was quick enough, and they also refunded my UK import duty without delay. I appreciate the signatures on the quality assurance tag.

Sound Quality
On its own, I say it is solid. The only time it might sound processed is during a sharp sweep. Otherwise, it always sounds good depending on how you want the track to sound. Compared with other EQs, this one is more about liveliness (if you have to describe a clean EQ). I particularly like the high-end as it stays round and juicy. It gives you what an EQ is supposed to accomplish and that alone justifies the price tag, not to mention the fact that it's miles ahead of those that sound nothing but dull and boring.

Control
There’s not too much to talk about as it’s very straightforward and intuitive. The detents and smoothness of the knobs feel expensive.

It’s clear how much effort they’ve spent on every aspect of their product. Not just the HVC250, but everything.

I happened to learn about Z&H Designs long before they opened for business. I was visiting a friend who was helping them develop the HVC250. Got a chance to try a prototype and was immediately fascinated.

I saw a giant white monster on his rack and casually fiddled around with it on a project we were working on. I started with the high and low shelf, and it was spot on. Then, I went further and tried bringing up the snare and vocals. It was enticing. Even though I had used SPL, Elysia, and some other more expensive EQs, the HVC250 handled it in its own unique way. I was just surprised to learn that an old design of Sontec is still very much relevant today.

So, in the end, I was lucky enough to be given a small discount as an acquaintance. It’s now my go-to EQ. Would love to try the mastering version later!

Nothing to complain about with the sound quality. It's one of the best-sounding EQs out there, no doubt. But there's a bit of inconsistency with how the functionality is set up compared to the Z&H 1178. The hvc250 is very minimal, and I don't see the same initiative they had when designing the new 1178, which was to improve a vintage design for modern productions. Specifically, I'd welcome a mid-side processor. If you don't need the extra functionality, the current version of the hvc250 is perfect for you.

Customization is something most companies should offer, but I'm finally seeing it here, and it's incredible! I loved that, but it was the sound that truly blew me away. You don't usually look for "characteristics" in an EQ, but a good company can still define its specialty. And in Z&H's case, the high frequencies is exceptionally good. It feels like crystal without being harsh - liquid crystal! The mid range is just a wonderful playground where you can't go wrong. I can totally imagine the low frequencies being used a lot in many genres.

By the way, I actually sent a couple of tracks to them and got two processed tracks back before I even made the purchase.

Opened up the machine right after a brief test. I already knew how it sounds with all the demos they put up, including a careful inspection of the .wav files. I needed to see with my own eyes how they handled the ironing and soldering.

And it did live up to their description. Every piece was assembled by hand with great precision. I wonder why they don't talk about "Boutique" more often, even though anyone into DIY would have no problem saying that.

I'll be more interested in the spare parts they sell. The EQ is a keep for sure.