TK AUDIO / TK-Lizer2 Toneflake Custom

TK AUDIO's Baxandall-style equalizer. Features easy-to-recall step controls, switchable shelving/peaking modes, and a high-pass filter with 12 selectable frequency bands.

■Baxandall Style Equalizer

■Toneflake Custom

This is the TONEFLAKE CUSTOM model of TK AUDIO's flagship mastering EQ, the TK-LIZER. While the main specifications remain the same, the biggest difference lies in its tone. The TK-LIZER is a mastering EQ equipped with an MS matrix, but it has long been said that MS decoding of 2-channel stereo sources tends to result in a thin sound.

This isn't due to MS itself, but rather a design issue with the buffers before and after it. Because the sound image is created by controlling the phase, this difference is easily noticeable. The TONEFLAKE CUSTOM focuses on correcting this weakness in sound image during MS equalization.

The output stage features the original T1166 transformer, which was a great success in the Chameleon Labs 7602, with a modified ratio. The time constant circuit has been omitted, resulting in a nearly clear extension of the frequency range.

Wiring is a crucial factor in determining the sound, and here, vintage NEVE console internal wiring materials are used without reservation. The solder used is eutectic solder at its eutectic temperature. This ensures a thick, punchy sound with clear bass without muddiness, and a clear tone that showcases excellent phase in the high frequencies.

The custom circuit is located in the final output stage, so you can enjoy the TONEFLAKE CUSTOM tone regardless of whether the EQ is on or off.

In other words, you can use this custom tone without using the EQ.

While the difference is evident even in the normal stereo EQ mode, you'll be amazed by the difference in spatial breadth, bass focus, and punchy power in MS mode. Furthermore, because no unnecessary circuitry is included, this custom design does not degrade the signal-to-noise ratio by even 0.1dB.