Kenwood GE-4030
A mid-tier graphic equalizer in Kenwood's 1980s component line. It has slightly fewer bands than the flagship GE-1000 and the same slider-control layout. Kenwood positioned it as the budget choice for system tuning.
Overview
The GE-4030 is a smaller, cheaper graphic EQ than Kenwood's flagship GE-1000. Typical configuration is 5 to 7 bands per channel. Some markets got 5 bands, others got 7, and the model number suffix varies. Cut/boost range is the standard ±12 dB. It's a line-level unit, meant to go between the preamp and power amp or in a tape-monitor loop.
It was sold as the entry point into outboard EQ. The buyer wasn't going to spring for a flagship GE-1000 but wanted more tonal control than the bass/treble knobs on an integrated amplifier gave.
Specifications
| Type | Stereo graphic equalizer (5-7 bands per channel) |
| Cut/boost range | ±12 dB per band |
| Frequency response | 15 Hz – 50 kHz (flat) |
| S/N ratio | ~85 dB |
| THD | 0.1% at rated level |
Applications and Legacy
It suits budget system tuning and recording playback. Working examples trade for $40-100.
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