ZEQD-Pre™ - The All-Analog Simulation Solution
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.
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:
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Gain Factor of 185: Significantly higher than comparable triodes
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44V RMS Output: Substantial voltage swing for enhanced dynamics
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Extended Frequency Response: Full-spectrum clarity from deep lows to detailed highs
What This Means for You
These specifications translate directly to playing experience:
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Touch Sensitivity: The EF86 responds to every dynamic nuance in your playing. Play lighter and it cleans up; dig in and it blooms. Natural expression that follows your hands.
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Full-Frequency Clarity: Extended response means harmonic richness without sacrificing definition. Bass notes stay tight, highs remain bell-like and clear.
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Responsive EQ: Higher voltage and broader bandwidth let the passive Three-Band EQ shape your tone effectively with minimal signal loss. The interactive controls behave like classic tube amp tone stacks—predictable and musical across their entire sweep.
The EF86 brings hi-fi performance to tube preamplification while staying responsive and musical.
Technical Specifications
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
Output Impedance
Variable
Headphone Out Impedance
39 Ω
Direct Out Impedance
100 Ω
Switching
ZEQD-Pre uses mechanical true bypass switching.
Power
This device takes a standard 500 mA (or higher) 9-volt DC power supply with a 2.1 mm negative-center barrel. We always recommend pedal-specific, transformer-isolated wall-wart power supplies or multiple isolated-output supplies. Pedals will make extra noise if there is ripple or unclean power. Switching-type power supplies, daisy chains, and non-pedal specific power supplies do not filter dirty power as well and let through unwanted noise. DO NOT RUN AT HIGHER VOLTAGES!
Shipping:
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If you are unsure about the shipping cost, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Click and Collect Orders:
Once your order has been processed, you will receive an email informing you that your order is ready for collection.
Note: Click and Collect orders are usually processed the same or next business day of purchase. If you have not received an email and it is not in a junk/spam folder, feel free to contact us for an update.
Preorders:
When a product is displaying 'Preorder Now' instead of 'Add to cart', this means:
- the product is currently on order and,
- the product on order is available
You are able to purchase the product before it arrives, making sure you don't miss out on any exciting new releases!
If you would like to check the ETA or would like to put down a deposit to secure the product, please contact us or use the 'Request To Lay-by This Product Form' located above.
Pre-order Terms & Conditions can be found on the Lay-by, Special Orders & Preorders page.
