HRK EQ5169

I looking for a gentle eq for subtle correction while tracking. Am I correct in thinking these will perform in that role?

I'm interested in how you like them.

Their MPQ568C preamp looks fun and wallet friendly.

I keep finding the only eq when recording that doesn't crap the bed that I can benefit from is the hpf. Everything else tends to have me removing all life from a recording. 

I had received the kit and built it in a few hours as it was not at all complicated and the instructions were straight forward. The creator of the EQ stated,"it is not to be pushed for character as it will clip", or something to that effect and he is right. I tested it using a hardware insert, for a already recorded kick drum, only wanting a lower mid dip as that was pretty much all I wanted. Then I though I'd give a little lift to the bass frequency and as I added it the eq began to pop on the transients around +3db and it was not pretty. I trimmed the send and it corrected for the gain and it sounded alright after the adjustment. I left me thinking that there were 2 transformers that were identical ratios so why not step down on the input and step up on the output to avoid the circuit from clipping? Anyways. once the gain staging was sorted out I found that EQ performed adequately in the role of nudger of frequencies in a controlled gain environment but would not be useful for tracking as I had hoped. As far as an EQ for inserting for mix purposes I'm left feeling that a plugin would better suit me in that role for now.

Conclusion - I'm always looking for great gear at reasonable prices (DIY) and this would certainly fit into the "reasonable" category but beyond that the HRK EQ5169 left me flat. At $210 it is a quick, fun and easy kit to build and would probably work for someone somewhere. The EQ itself works as advertised and is quiet. The frequency selections are decent choices and it EQs. This will go to a home where it will be loved more than mine. Sorry HRK the harsh clipping was the deal breaker.

I'll still use it. I can see using it in the same fashion as you're speaking of when needed as that was my original intention. The clipping is the NOS opamp transistors and seemed to only react to louder bass transients when pushed a bit, admittedly. It will work it's way down the 500 series rack with time until it get's pushed out. Who knows, maybe i'll start liking it... I haven't used it for tracking yet as I don't want to freak out a client with any popping noises but when I have time I'll track some of my stuff and see if I can make it work.