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A collaboration between EarthQuaker Devices and Dr. Z Amplification

This all-analog tube preamplifier brings together EarthQuaker Devices’ innovative pedal design and Dr. Z Amplification’s decades of tube amp expertise. With a passive three-band EQ, professional headphone output, balanced XLR output, and onboard analog cabinet simulation, the ZEQD-Pre delivers authentic tube warmth and dynamic response in a complete analog amplifier system that fits right on your pedalboard.

Description

This all-analog tube preamplifier brings together EarthQuaker Devices’ innovative pedal design and Dr. Z Amplification’s decades of tube amp expertise. With a passive three-band EQ, professional headphone output, balanced XLR output, and onboard analog cabinet simulation, the ZEQD-Pre delivers authentic tube warmth and dynamic response in a complete analog amplifier system that fits right on your pedalboard.Place this all-analog preamp pedal at the end of your signal chain, and you’ll revel in the harmonic-rich warmth and dynamic response you’d expect from a cylinder of glowing-hot glass. The ZEQD-Pre’s robust, passive 3-band EQ is just what the doctor ordered for fine-tuned tone shaping, pushing its preamp into ear-grabbing grit, or breathing new life into your favorite modeling patch. Moreover, this stellar stompbox features a switchable analog cabinet simulation for seamless DI recording and backline-free live performances. You also get a Boost footswitch with a dedicated Level control, delivering a wide-open volume bump that lets your solos soar high above the mix without sacrificing clarity or character. Finally, the ZEQD-Pre includes numerous thoughtful features, including a Ground Lift, Headphone output, and a balanced XLR DI output. Driven by an EF86 pentode — the same tube that fuels Dr. Z’s pristine, hi-fi amplifiers — the EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD-Pre offers a complete, all-analog amplifier system that fits right on your pedalboard.Driven by a real-world EF86 pentode, the ZEQD-Pre infuses every note you play with classic tube warmth and an inspiring level of dynamic response. Place this powerhouse at the end of your signal chain, and you’ll be able to shape your sound with a responsive 3-band EQ — dial in rich harmonic overdrive, refine your amp’s voice, or add organic realism to any modeling setup. Need to cut through the mix? It’s no problem for the ZEQD-Pre; simply stomp on the Boost footswitch, and the EQ drops out completely, unleashing a pure, full-range lift with its own dedicated Level control. Thanks to the Boost feature, you’ll have two distinct voices at your command: sculpted tone or wide-open boost. The EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD-Pre delivers the authentic feel of a real amp — even during quiet practice — thanks to the built-in analog cabinet simulation. Need extra flexibility? Flip the Cab Bypass switch and send a pure signal to your favorite IR loader or modeling software. This preamp pedal is a streamlined solution for direct recording, backline-free gigs, or complex hybrid setups. With the ZEQD-Pre, you get both straightforward simplicity and authentic tube tone with no menus, no IR loading, and no firmware updates — no digital distractions at all — just pure, organic tone and response in a compact, pedalboard-friendly format.

Product Features

Boost: Use the Boost rotary knob for volume control when the Boost is active and the tone controls are bypassed. Boost mode is very loud! Be careful when setting the Boost level, especially when using headphones or XLR out.

Boost Footswitch: This footswitch defeats the tone controls and delivers a full-range boost without altering the frequency response. This switch is only active when the Activate footswitch is on.

Headphone Output: A TRS (Stereo) ¼” headphone jack is located on the left side. Use the Level control to adjust headphone level when the pedal is active. The headphone output works as a unity gain amplifier with cabinet simulation even when the pedal is bypassed.

Direct Output: A balanced XLR output is located on the left side of the pedal.

Ground Lift Switch: Press this switch on the left side of the pedal for ground lift on the XLR output.

Cab Sim Bypass Switch: Press this switch on the left side of the pedal to remove the analog cabinet simulation on the XLR output.

Level: Use the Level rotary knob to adjust the output volume when the tone controls are active.

Bass: Use the Bass rotary knob to adjust the frequency range from 20 Hz to 400 Hz.

Middle: Use the Middle rotary knob to adjust the frequency range from 400 Hz to 2 kHz.

Treble: Use the Treble rotary knob to adjust the frequency range from 2 kHz to 20 kHz.

Activate Footswitch: Use this footswitch to activate or bypass the ZEQD-Pre.

Attributes

• Color: Black

Technical Specifications

• Dimensions: 2.75" H x 3.94" W x 5.88" D
• Weight: 1.25lbs
• EQ: 3-Band EQ
• Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
• Outputs: 1 x 1/4", 1 x XLR (DI)
• Power Source: 9V DC Power Supply (sold separately)
• Effects: Boost, Simulator, Preamp
• Processing Type: Analog
• Power Usage: 500 mA

Shutup & Play is an Authorized EarthQuaker Effects Dealer and Reverb preferred Seller

Guy Eckelberger 
Professional Organic Pedal Farmer since 1976. 
Member and Founder-Tone Farmers Union since 1961