New Earthquaker ZEQD-Pre Analog Simulation Solution Preamp Guitar Effects Pedal

From EarthQuaker Devices:

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.

Practice Amp with Headphones
The headphone output features built-in analog cabinet simulation for a realistic amp feel during quiet practice sessions. Enjoy the full EF86 tube character without disturbing your housemates.

Direct Amplifier via XLR
Run the balanced XLR output straight into any console or interface and use the ZEQD-Pre as your main amp. The analog cabinet simulation is there when you need it, or flip the Cab Bypass switch to send a pure signal to your preferred IR loader or modeling software. Perfect for direct recording, backline-free gigs, or hybrid rigs with multiple signal paths.

Flexible Routing
All outputs work simultaneously, even when the pedal is bypassed. Send your signal to an amp, route a direct feed to front-of-house, and monitor through headphones all at once. This routing flexibility makes the ZEQD-Pre an invaluable studio tool.

Why The EF86 Tube?
The ZEQD-Pre uses the EF86 pentode, the same tube that gives many Dr. Z amplifiers their pristine hi-fi tone and makes them such responsive pedal platforms.

The Technical Side
Unlike the common 12AX7 triode (two elements plus cathode), the EF86 pentode has four internal elements plus cathode. This structure yields measurably superior performance:
Gain Factor of 185: Significantly higher than comparable triodes
44V RMS Output: Substantial voltage swing for enhanced dynamics
Extended Frequency Response: Full-spectrum clarity from deep lows to detailed highs

Controls
Boost: Volume control when the Boost is active and the tone controls are bypassed. Boost mode is very loud!
Boost Footswitch: Defeats the tone controls and delivers a full-range boost without altering the frequency response.
Headphone Output: A TRS (Stereo) 1/4" headphone jack with cabinet simulation, active even when the pedal is bypassed.
Direct Output: A balanced XLR output.
Ground Lift Switch: Ground lift on the XLR output.
Cab Sim Bypass Switch: Removes the analog cabinet simulation on the XLR output.
Level: Adjusts the output volume when the tone controls are active.
Bass: 20 Hz to 400 Hz.
Middle: 400 Hz to 2 kHz.
Treble: 2 kHz to 20 kHz.
Activate Footswitch: Activates or bypasses the ZEQD-Pre.

Tech Specs
Dimensions: 5.88 x 3.94 x 2.75 in. (149 x 100 x 70 mm) with knobs
Current Draw: 500 mA
Input Impedance: 10 MΩ
Headphone Out Impedance: 39 Ω
Direct Out Impedance: 100 Ω
Switching: mechanical true bypass

Power
Takes a standard 500 mA (or higher) 9-volt DC power supply with a 2.1 mm negative-center barrel (not included). We recommend pedal-specific, transformer-isolated power supplies. DO NOT RUN AT HIGHER VOLTAGES!