Kush Hammer DSP $149

Another emulation, this time of an excellent modern valve EQ, the Hammer is a twin channel 3-band device with low and high-shelf, a bell midrange and switchable low and high-pass filters. Each band has switched frequencies which all seem to be in exactly the right places. When using it on a stereo source the channels can be ganged or left independent so it’s a true dual channel EQ. The low-end is warm and round while the highs can be subtle and smooth but can also add a real bite to a dull sound without harshness or any nasty artifacts. But it is the midrange which is most impressive as it is powerful and warm without ever being offensive. It’s quite remarkable

as you can radically change the character of a sound without losing its musicality, especially good for putting some bark into an electric guitar while retaining the body. Well up to Kush’s high standards, and something you’ll come back to again and again.