AMEK EQ 250 Review

AMEK is back with the EQ 250! On the surface, this new plug-in entry to the MEGA bundle (subscribe here) and the Plugin Alliance store looks and feels very similar to the AMEK EQ 200 – originally released in 2020. The difference? Let’s find out in this review.

AMEK EQ 250 vs AMEK EQ 200

Ultimately, I want to review plugins on a listening basis. No ‘plug-in doctor’ B.S. With that said, let’s cover the differences between the 250 and 200 variants of the AMEK EQ.

The EQ 200

The EQ 200 variant of the AMEK Mastering Equaliser is based on the GML 8200. As well as various vintage SONTEC EQ hardware.

The idea was to develop a mastering-grade equaliser with immense clarity and resolution. The plugin would be capable of both broad tonal equalisation as well as in-depth corrective equalisation.

And the best part? This plugin is capable of both Left/Right and Mid/Side processing. With additional features such as auto-gain, Tolerance Modelling Technology (TMT) and built in THD, Low Frequency Mono and Stereo Width controls.

So, if this plugin is the perfect mastering EQ, then why do we need the new ‘ EQ 250’ version?

Before answering this, go check out the AMEK EQ 200 plugin on Plugin Alliance. Also take a look at my previous review of the AMEK EQ 200.

The EQ 250

Whilst the 200 variant of the EQ was designed to be a mastering equalisation generalist, the 250 variant of the plugin is much more of a specialist. The EQ is also a direct emulation of a legendary mastering equaliser and is not something ‘brand new’.

Unlike the 200, the EQ 250 is a 1:1 painstaking recreation of the MEP 250ex EQs by Sontec (hence the 250 name). The original hardware is featured on many countless hit records and is renowned for sweet and sugary high-end with a humble, tight and focused low-end.

In addition, the historical context of this plugin and its original is also fascinating. This is because the MEP 250ex hardware descends directly from the original parametric equaliser designs.

Like the 200, this variation also features the Brainworx “Extra Unit”. This provides extended features such as TMT, Mono-Maker, Stereo Width and more!

How does it sound?

The 250 has a smoother high-end that feels more ‘analogue’ and less clean and digital. The mid-range is clear, yet sharp, it’s easy to tonally shape your mix or to correct any resonances at the mastering or mix-bus stage. Moreover, the low-end is focused and tight where low-end separation can easily be achieved.

Overall, this eq feels more ‘sticky’ and with a few moves can add more adhesion to your mix than most other equalisers can’t. I personally like to think of this variant of the AMEK EQ as the more ‘characterful’ older sibling. Similar, although boasts a unique character that is not found on any other equaliser plugin.

The Verdict… 

Overall I give this plugin a score of 8.8 out of 10:

• Ease of Use: 8/10
• Sonic Quality: 10/10
• Feature Set: 10/10
• User Interface: 9/10
• Price: 7/10

As for the price, all Plugin Alliance plugins can be purchased for an affordable monthly cost when subscribing to one of the MEGA bundles. The plugin like many available on Plugin Alliance are also regularly discounted and is currently available for $179.99 as an introductory offer with an RRP of $349

You download a free trial, find out more or purchase the EQ 250 by Plugin Alliance here: EQ 250 by AMEK