The EarthQuaker Devices ZEQD-Pre Preamp Pedal is a powerful, all-analog preamp designed to deliver authentic amp-like tone, dynamic response, and professional flexibility straight from your pedalboard. Created through a landmark collaboration between EarthQuaker Devices and Dr. Z Amplification, this pedal brings genuine tube-driven character to guitarists who demand expressive feel, rich harmonics, and hands-on control.

Driven by a real EF86 pentode tube—the same style used in Dr. Z’s highly regarded amplifiers—the ZEQD-Pre adds depth, warmth, and musical touch sensitivity to any setup. Placed at the end of your signal chain, it acts as a complete amplifier front end, offering everything from pristine clarity to harmonically rich grit. The intuitive 3-band EQ allows precise tone sculpting, whether you’re refining your amp’s voice, enhancing a pedal-based rig, or adding realism to a digital or modeling setup.

A dedicated Boost footswitch provides instant volume lift for solos, with its own Level control for clean, full-range emphasis that cuts through the mix without altering your core tone. When engaged, the EQ is bypassed for a wide-open boost feel, effectively giving you two distinct tonal modes in one pedal.

For modern players, the ZEQD-Pre goes even further. A switchable analog cabinet simulation makes direct recording and backline-free live performances simple and natural, while the Cab Bypass option allows seamless integration with external IR loaders or amp modelers. Added features like a balanced XLR DI output, headphone output, and ground lift make this pedal a true all-in-one solution for stage, studio, and silent practice.

Features

• All-analog preamp pedal developed with Dr. Z Amplification
• Powered by a real EF86 pentode tube for authentic amp feel and response
• Bass, Middle, and Treble controls for detailed tone shaping
• Boost footswitch with dedicated Level control for solo enhancement
• Switchable analog cabinet simulation for direct recording and live use
• Cab Bypass for use with IR loaders or external modeling systems
• Balanced XLR DI output eliminates the need for a separate DI box
• Headphone output for quiet practice and monitoring
• Ground Lift switch helps reduce hum and unwanted noise
• Rugged, pedalboard-friendly design built for professional use

Specs

• Pedal Type: Preamp
• Controls: Boost, Level, Bass, Middle, Treble
• EQ: 3-band EQ
• Footswitches: 2
• Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
• Outputs: 1 x 1/4", 1 x XLR (DI)
• Other I/O: 1 x 1/4" Headphone Output
• Power: 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
• Dimensions: 2.75" (H) x 3.125" (W) x 5.875" (D)
• Weight: 1.25 lbs