The Lil Freq from Empirical Labs is a mastering quality equalizer with eight processing sections including two shelf equalizers, a high-pass (low-cut) filter, four fully parametric equalizer bands, and a dynamic equalizer section for de-essing and high-frequency limiting. The Lil Freq utilizes traditional and digitally controlled analog circuitry combined in a new topology, which offers a performance that exceeds most digital EQs in terms of distortion and noise.

The high-pass section offer eight preset frequencies covering 30 to 330 Hz to remove low frequency content, while the high and low shelving sections offer musically smooth boost and cut on high and low frequencies. The fully parametric EQ section covers 4 overlapping frequency ranges (LF, Lo-Mid, Hi-Mid, and HF) with complete control over frequency selection, cut or boost, and bandwidth. The DS or dynamic EQ section combines tunable filters with a compressor-like circuit that can help control excessive high frequency content, such as sibilants or other sharp transients. The circuit also functions as a soft-knee high-frequency limiter.

There are both XLR and 1/4" / 6.35mm line-level inputs, each being DC coupled. The XLR output includes a Class-A transformer, which offers isolation from ground loops and hum with soft saturation and a beefy low end often associated with vintage gear. Additionally, there is a 1/4" / 6.35mm instrument input on the front panel, which effectively turns the Lil Freq into an instrument DI for studio recording and live performance applications. The Lil Freq is hand-wired in the USA and ships with a standard IEC power cord.

Eight Processing Sections    High Pass Filter    High and Low Shelf Equalizers    Four Bands of Parametric Equalization    DS - Dynamic EQ Section    DS Circuit Works as a De-esser    DS Circuit Also Works as a HF Limiter    Limited 3-Year Warranty    Made in the USA

• Eight sections of processing
• Two shelving equalizers, special 3rd order HP (Low Cut) section with 8 selectable frequencies, 4 fully parametric bands, and one dynamic equalizer section
• Dynamic section that can be used for de-essing and high frequency softening
• Movable dynamic section allows de-esser to be before or after EQ
• High audio performance with the total harmonic distortion typically below .0006% with all EQ bands engaged
• Built in Instrument Preamp/Direct box – Just plug a guitar or bass into the front panel and engage the instrument switch, and you have the high performance direct box. Distortion is below .0007% on the instrument preamp, 114 dB dynamic range
• Three Outputs, including a Class-A transformer output to give you an isolated output with soft saturation and beefy low end often associated with vintage gear
• Traditional and digitally controlled analog combined in new topology
• Huge "DISTRESSOR" knobs with high resolution numbering offers easy readability and repeatable settings
• A “BAD!” Hard Clip Indicator light that lets the user know they are within 1 dB of hard clipping. It monitors every section of the EQ for internal clipping
• Locked and calibrated output level allows  for speed in setting tape and live mix levels
• Discrete and integrated combination offering the best of speed/linearity with repeatability. Hand tested & selected components. All metal film and Roederstein resistors in the audio path with top quality components, most being high temperature military spec parts
• Switchable 115/230 volt operation - Extra fuse provided inside unit
• True EQ bypass
• XLR and 1/4" phone ins and outs.  (XLR fully balanced design, pin-2 hot. Changeable by user to pin-3 hot)
• No internal connectors, high reliability parts and military grade switches and relays. All contacts doubled up for maximum reliability
• Limited three year warranty.
• Hand wired, calibrated in USA.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Will this work on a Leica M6 with Fuji XF-20 flash?

A: Technically the LightPix Labs FlashQ Trigger T2 Kit (Black) should work with the FUJIFILM EF-X20 Flash on the Leica M6. Both the flash and remotes are manual. But note, it has not been tested with those specific items.

Q: 2. Can I leave the wedge after installation and work also in AltAz mode? Is there any reason to remove it if going AltAz some of the times?

A: The MFR needs to be contacted for this answer.

Q: 3. Can it also be used with a sync cable? Is there a flash sync cable port on the flash body and/or on remote?

A: While it will depend on what type flash connection is used by the camera onto which you wish to use the LightPix Labs FlashQ x20 with Transmitter for FUJIFILM, the Impact SCS-MPC PC Male to Hot Shoe Sync Cord (12"), B&H # IMSCSMPC, would be a compatible hot shoe adapter that will allow you to use the flash with cameras that have a PC (X) sync terminal connector. https://bhpho.to/3Vtm7lP

Q: 4. Can I buy a separate trigger to use it also with other cameras?

A: There is the LightPix Labs FlashQ Trigger T2 Kit (Black), BH # LIFQTT2KBLK which can work woth other flashes. https://bhpho.to/3LCXk6o

Q: 5. Is there a way to have two transmitters send the same signal? I have two cameras and one flash.

A: Yes, the LightPix Labs FlashQ Trigger T2 Kit F+ (Black) are manual transmitter and receiver. So you can have more than one work.

Q: 6. Is there manual mode?

A: Yes. For instructions, please see the quick start guide on our overview page or the manual included in the box.

Q: 7. Will the Fuji version of this also work on a Sony? Will it do ttl or just manual? Is there a way to make it compatible to do ttl compensation in a Sony as well?

A: The LightPix Labs FlashQ x20 with Transmitter for FUJIFILM will only work in manual mode on Sony cameras, it is not possible to make it support Sony TTL due to the hardware.

Q: 8. Does the fuji ver. works with Leica M cameras?

A: While we do not carry the Fujifilm version of the LightPix Labs FlashQ x20 with Transmitter for Sony in our inventory, while the flash may it onto a Leica M hot shoe, do note that you would not have TTL automatic flash exposure output and you would need to set the flash output manually.

Q: 9. How do you charge the batteries

A: These are charged via USB.

Q: 10. Will this work as a trigger on my Sony A7iii using my HVL-F43M off camera?

A: BH #LIFQRECT2BLK is only a receiver. You would also need the transmitter. It is also a manual only system so you would not get the full range of features of the flash.