The WMD Utility Parametric EQ is a three-band EQ pedal from WMD, a maker with roots in modular synths. Each band gives you independent control over gain, frequency and Q, letting you sculpt, scoop or boost precise parts of your signal rather than working with fixed bands. WMD describes it as "a staple pedal that belongs in any professional's rig"1.
This product is discontinued. WMD's product page states it directly, so the Utility Parametric EQ is no longer available new1.
Three bands of EQ from about 40Hz to 15kHz
The pedal offers 3 bands of EQ with frequency ranges spanning about 40Hz to 15kHz1. Delicious Audio, writing in its EQ pedal buying guide, called it "a stomp box with 3 bands of EQ with a huge range of 40hz to 15khz each" and noted it comes "from a modular synth company"2. Each band's Freq knob selects the center frequency of the filter, and the three ranges overlap so you can reach the same spot from more than one band:
Controls
Each band carries the same set of knobs, plus a master control and a footswitch21:
| Control | What it does |
|---|---|
| Freq | Selects the center frequency of the filter1 |
| Level | Controls how much cut or boost the band applies; centered at 0 the band is out of the circuit1 |
| Q | Controls the sharpness of the filter, from about .1 to around 301 |
| Overall Level | Gives an overall cut or boost at the output, like a volume control with some gain available1 |
| Stomp Switch | Activates the EQ; the center LED lights when the pedal is engaged1 |
Delicious Audio summarized the layout as "separate controls for gain, frequency, and Q, as well as a master output volume knob"2.
The Q knob is the heart of a parametric EQ. At low settings the band behaves like a traditional EQ, cutting or boosting a wide swath of frequencies. As Q rises toward 30, the filter narrows and adds resonant nodes, so you can notch out a specific problem frequency or push a peaked boost1. Setting a band's Level knob to 0 takes that band out of the circuit entirely, which means the pedal can act as a two-band or even one-band EQ when you want it to1.
Power and size
The Utility Parametric EQ runs on a 9-24 VDC jack using a standard BOSS style center negative power supply. WMD notes you can use anywhere from 9 to 24 volts, with the higher voltages usable for more headroom1. The enclosure measures 2.8" x 4.3", compact enough for a tight pedalboard1.
Warranty
Every WMD product is warranted for 12 months after purchase, a policy that covers the whole WMD range1.
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Questions
Is the WMD Utility Parametric EQ discontinued?
Yes. WMD's own product page states plainly that the product is discontinued, so it is no longer made new. It may still be found secondhand, and every WMD product carries a 12 month warranty after purchase.
What does the Q knob do on a parametric EQ?
Q sets how sharp or wide the filter is. On the Utility Parametric EQ it ranges from about .1 to around 30: low settings behave like a traditional wide EQ band, while higher settings narrow the filter and add resonant nodes for surgical cuts or peaked boosts.
How big is the WMD Utility Parametric EQ?
WMD lists the pedal's dimensions as 2.8 inches by 4.3 inches, a compact enclosure that fits easily on a small pedalboard alongside other compact effects.
What is the warranty on WMD pedals?
Every WMD product is warranted for 12 months after purchase, according to the maker's product page. That coverage applies across the WMD range, not just to the Utility Parametric EQ.
Sources (2)
- Utility Parametric EQ, WMD (wmdevices.com)
- 2023 UPDATE! Best EQ Pedals For Guitar: Graphic & Parametric, Delicious Audio, 2023-12-13