EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD-Pre Pedal
The EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD-Pre Tube Preamp gives your sound genuine tube warmth and life in a simple, easy-to-use pedal. It brings the feel of an authentic amp to your board without any menus or digital noise. You get rich tone, smooth response, and a natural feel that makes playing more fun and inspiring.
EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD Pedal Review
The EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD-Pre Tube Preamp blends classic EF86 tube character with a fully analog design that reacts to your playing in a very natural way. Its three-band EQ shapes your sound with precision, while the built-in cab simulation and balanced XLR out make it great for recording and direct rigs. The ZEQD-Pre even includes a headphone out, allowing quiet practice at your convenience. You can also hit the Boost switch for a wide-open, full-range lift that skips the EQ for a second voice on command.
EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD-Pre Tube Preamp Pedal Features
- Real tube style warmth that makes any instrument sound fuller
- Simple controls that make dialing in a great tone quick
- Built-in cab simulation for quiet playing and recording
- Boost mode gives you a second sound with more power
- Works great with guitar, bass, keys, synths, and more
EQD ZEQD-Pre Tube Preamp Specs
- EF86 analog tube-style preamp circuit
- Passive three-band EQ covering 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Balanced XLR direct out with ground lift
- Headphone output with 39 ohm impedance
- Input impedance 10 megaohms
- Current draw 500 mA
- Mechanical true bypass switching
EQD ZEQD Pedal FAQs
What does the EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD-Pre Effect Pedal do?
It brings real tube-style warmth and natural response to your sound, giving you a clearer tone, smooth dynamics, and flexible EQ control in one easy-to-use pedal.
Can I use the EQD ZEQD-Pre Pedal for quiet practice?
Yes. The built-in analog cab simulation and headphone output make it perfect for silent practice while still feeling like you are playing through a real amp.
Does the ZEQD Pedal work well with digital modelers?
Absolutely. Many players love using it at the end of a digital rig to add warmth, depth, and a more natural tube feel to their tone.
What happens when I press the EQD ZEQD-Pre Tube Preamp Pedal Boost switch?
The Boost switch bypasses the EQ section and gives you a clean, powerful boost with its own level control. It is like having a second voice ready whenever you need it.
Is the ZEQD-Pre only made for guitar?
Not at all. It works wonderfully with bass, keyboards, synths, drum machines, microphones, and more, adding extra color and richness to any instrument.
Does the EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD Pre have a balanced output for recording?
Yes. The balanced XLR output with ground lift makes recording or running direct to a PA clean, simple, and noise-free.
Can I turn off the ZEQD Preamp’s cab simulation?
Yes. The Cab Bypass switch lets you remove the built-in cab sim and use your favorite IRs or external software.
Is the EQD ZEQD Tube Preamp Pedal fully analog?
It is. Everything is entirely analog, with no menus, no firmware, and no digital artifacts, giving you a pure, authentic playing experience.
What kind of tube character does the EarthQuaker ZEQD Pedal offer?
It delivers the classic EF86-style response, known for clear highs, rich mids, and exceptional touch sensitivity, much like many well-loved Dr. Z amps.
Where is the EarthQuaker ZEQD-Pre made?
Each unit is proudly hand-built in Akron, Ohio, by a talented team of builders working alongside one very clever robot.
EarthQuaker ZEQD-Pre Tube Preamp Pedal Dimensions
- Height: 2.75 in
- Width: 3.94 in
- Depth: 5.88 in
- Weight: 1.255 lbs
