In this video we talk about the new Hendy Amps Michelangelo XL EQ soon to be released by Hendy Amps. We designed this in October 2023 and after some time of refining the build we have the finished units here at the studio. Using Plugin Doctor I can show exactly what is possible and how the curves can be created. As well as give an easy to see and understand explanation of how the concept works.
The Hendy Amps Michelangelo XL EQ was designed by Audio Animals as a totally unique and breakthrough concept of being able to use a tube EQ and Mosfet EQ in parallel, in order to achieve optimal saturation without increasing the gain. Use the Mosfet EQ to achieve a more saturated aggressive tone and then use the tube EQ to attenuate the signal and bring it back balanced. Alternatively you can use both EQs together to create unique curves with a different sound and colour. You can use the trim as a dry/wet mix and use the Michelangelo XL EQ as an original Michelangelo EQ as either a tube EQ and mosfet EQ.
FEATURES
- The BYPASS switches allow the user to completely disengage the Michelangelo at any time in order to properly A/B a mix (true bypass).
- The TRIM control allows the user to mix between the tube and mosfet EQ. Turn the mosfet trim to 0 and use the Michelangelo XL as an original Michelangelo tube EQ.
- Left and Right CALIBRATION is used to gain match the Left and Right signals, accounting for any volume discrepancies encountered. Interestingly enough, these calibration controls can also be used to alter the tonal response of the Michelangelo if so desired. For example, it is possible to bring the Calibration volumes up and the Trim down, resulting in the Michelangelo driving the signal harder than normal, increasing harmonic content.
- The AGGRESSION control alters the drive in the circuit, allowing you to push the tubes for extra saturation.
- The LOW, MID, and HIGH controls manipulate the three EQ bands, but in a way that adds more dynamic, harmonic content the higher the EQ is set. Take note that the Mid control covers a massive amount of territory while the Low and High controls are narrower by comparison.
- The AIR control boosts the ultra high frequencies and is typically a favourite control in this unit.
- LOW SHIFT changes the Low control in order to target all frequencies below 150hz or 80hz.
- MID SHIFT alters the response of the Low and Mid controls, essentially assigning the low mids to either control.
- HIGH SHIFT changes the High control in order to target the frequencies above 1khz or 2khz.
- The VINTAGE switch toggles between a “modern” mode (think more hifi), and a “vintage” mode (darker, older sounding).
- LoZ/HiZ alters the output impedance of the Michelangelo in order to dial in either a more coloured tone (HiZ) which ill interact with gear following it in your chain, or a more clean tone (LoZ) which is largely unaffected by gear following it in your chain.
- High Cut rolls off the high end, which can be used to shape the air allowing you to drive the air harder without increasing the gain too much.
PRICE
- UK – £7000 (SX Pro)
- USA – $7000 (Hendy Amps Direct)
CONNECTIONS
- XLR Input (L+R)
- XLR Output (L+R)