HLQSE
Key Features
- Helios Type 69 style EQ with discrete bands allowing simultaneous boost and cut across all three frequency ranges
- Low band with 15dB cut at 50Hz and selectable boost at 60/100/200/300Hz for flexible low-end shaping
- Mid band spanning eight frequencies from 700Hz to 6kHz with independent 15dB boost and cut controls
- High band at 10kHz with separate boost and cut knobs plus a 15dB master output control
- 4x oversampling for clean, alias-free processing at higher sample rates
- Component-level filter and line amp emulation for authentic analog harmonic coloration
- Resizable interface from 50% to 200% with touchscreen support and frequency readout display
Description
HLQSE by Analog Obsession is a Helios Type 69 style equalizer that models the legendary British console EQ used on records by Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, and Bob Marley. Unlike the original hardware, which only allowed boost or cut per band but not both simultaneously, HLQSE offers discrete bands that let you boost and cut at the same time across all three frequency ranges.
The low band provides up to 15dB cut at 50Hz and selectable boost at 60, 100, 200, or 300Hz. The mid band covers eight selectable frequencies from 700Hz to 6kHz with independent boost and cut controls reaching 15dB in either direction.
The high band handles 10kHz with separate boost and cut knobs, and a master output control provides 15dB of gain adjustment. Version 5.0 introduced a fully optimized DSP circuit, 4x oversampling (activated by clicking the Analog Obsession logo), a readout display, a resizable interface scaling from 50% to 200%, and touchscreen support.
In a direct comparison against the UAD Helios 69, Acustica Viridian, and Lindell 69, users on Gearspace and YouTube noted that HLQSE holds its own sonically while using noticeably less CPU. The component-level filter and line amp emulation delivers the musical, harmonically rich character that made the original Helios console a studio staple.
Available as VST3, AU, and AAX for macOS (Intel and Apple Silicon) and Windows, with no copy protection or iLok required.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What hardware does HLQSE emulate?
HLQSE models the Helios Type 69 equalizer, a legendary British console EQ designed by Dick Swettenham in the late 1960s. The original hardware was installed in Olympic Studios and Island Studios in London, where it shaped recordings by Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, The Who, and Bob Marley.
Is Analog Obsession HLQSE compatible with my DAW?
HLQSE supports VST3, Audio Units (AU), and AAX plugin formats, making it compatible with virtually all major DAWs including Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, FL Studio, Studio One, Reaper, and Cubase. It runs on macOS (Intel and Apple Silicon) and Windows with no iLok or copy protection.
How do I enable oversampling in HLQSE?
Click the Analog Obsession logo on the plugin interface. When oversampling is active, the logo turns red and a notification appears. The 4x oversampling improves audio quality at the cost of slightly higher CPU usage.
What is the best free EQ plugin?
HLQSE is one of the top-rated free EQ plugins for vintage analog-style tone shaping, alongside TDR Nova for transparent parametric EQ and ZL Equalizer for modern digital precision. HLQSE stands out for producers who specifically want the warm, musical character of a classic British console EQ.
How does HLQSE compare to the UAD Helios Type 69?
Both plugins model the same Helios Type 69 hardware. The UAD version ($149) includes a preamp section with Unison technology and additional saturation modeling. HLQSE focuses purely on the EQ section with discrete bands, uses less CPU, and delivers comparable tonal character according to user comparisons on YouTube and audio forums.
