EarthQuaker x Dr Z ZEQD-Pre

The EarthQuaker Devices x Dr. Z ZEQD-Pre is one of the most ambitious pedals EQD has ever released, a genuine EF86 valve preamplifier designed in collaboration with Dr. Z, a brand that is exclusive to Peach Guitars in the UK. This isn't a valve-style circuit but a real EF86 pentode running at proper high voltage inside the enclosure, delivering the same hi-fi clarity, touch sensitivity and harmonic richness that define Dr. Z's most iconic amps.

The ZEQD-Pre is designed to sit at the end of your signal chain, acting as a complete all-analog amplifier system that fits on your pedalboard. With a passive 3-band EQ, professional headphone output, balanced XLR direct out, and onboard analog cabinet simulation, it adds authentic valve warmth and dynamic response to any rig, be it amps, modellers, interfaces, silent stages, or hybrid setups.

Placed last in your chain, the ZEQD-Pre adds classic valve character to everything before it. The EQ behaves like a real amp tone stack, and is interactive and responsive, thanks to the EF86's high headroom and wide bandwidth. This allows you to shape your amp's voice, push a preamp into rich harmonic overdrive, or simply add dimension and realism to a modelling setup (or boring backline).

If you press the Boost footswitch, the entire EQ section is bypassed. You then get a full-range, wide-open boost with its own dedicated level control, which can be used as a solo boost, or for rockier riffs. This means you have two distinct tones at your feet; sculpted EQ tone or a raw boosted voice.

The headphone output includes analog cabinet simulation, giving you a realistic amp feel whilst doing silent practice.

The balanced XLR output allows you to go straight into a console, interface or stage box. You can use the built-in analog cab sim, or use the Bypass switch and feed your favourite IR loader or modeller instead. This is ideal for direct recording, backline-free gigs, silent stages or hybrid rigs.

All outputs work at once, allowing you to feed your amp, send a direct signal to front-of-house, and monitor through headphones, all at once!

Although it runs on a standard 9V DC (500 mA) pedalboard supply, the ZEQD-Pre internally boosts voltage to 200V for proper valve operation. No special power supply required, which is a great bonus, just be sure you meet the minimum 500 mA requirement. And as you'd expect, the pedal is true bypass and handmade in Akron, Ohio.