Millennia NSEQ Series User manual

NSEQ Series Equalizers
NSEQ-2
NSEQ-4
Owner’s Manual

Millennia Media NSEQ page 2 of 9
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION........................... 3
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ................ 3
Water, Moisture, and Spillage ...........................3
Heat & Ventilation ...........................................3
Power Sources & Power Cord Protection .............3
Grounding ......................................................3
Damage Requiring Service ...............................3
SERVICING.................................. 3
NSEQ CONTROLS ......................... 5
NSEQ-2 Front Panel..................... 5
1. Band In/Out Switch.................................5
2. Frequency Select Switch ..........................5
3. Peak/Shelf Select....................................5
4. Boost/Cut Control ...................................5
5. Parametric Frequency Control ..................5
6. Parametric Frequency Range Select Switch 5
7. Parametric Q Control...............................5
8. Master Equalizer In/Out Select Switch .......5
9. Twin Topology ........................................5
10. Gain Range ............................................5
11. Power Indicator ......................................5
12. Power Switch .........................................5
NSEQ-4 Front Panel..................... 5
1. Band In/Out Switch "IN" ..........................5
2. Frequency Select Switch ..........................5
3. Peak/Shelf Select....................................5
4. Boost/Cut Control ...................................5
5. Parametric Frequency Control ..................5
6. Parametric Frequency Range Select Switch 5
7. Parametric Q Control...............................5
9. Balanced/Unbalanced Input .....................5
10. Gain Range ............................................5
11. Power Indicator ......................................5
12. Power Switch .........................................5
NSEQ Rear Panel ........................ 6
1. Inputs ...................................................6
2. Outputs .................................................6
3. Earth/Audio Ground Jumper .....................6
4. AC Voltage Mains Selection ......................6
5. Power Entry ...........................................6
NSEQ-2 SPECIFICATIONS............ 7
NSEQ-4 SPECIFICATIONS............ 8
WARRANTY ................................. 9

Page 3 of 9 rev 100321 Millennia Media NSEQ
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the Millennia
Media NSEQ Equalizer. It uses a minimalist design
which has only one active stage in the audio path
(Dove Topology). This results in full timbral control
with total signal integrity.
The NSEQ-2 features Twin Topology®.You have
your choice of a Tube OR Solid State signal path.
The NSEQ-4 uses the world's first (and only) all-
discrete, true differential Class-A input
buffer/amplifier along with an all discrete J-FET solid
state signal path
We will refer to both the NSEQ-2 and NSEQ-4
as NSEQ unless there is an operational
difference.
The NSEQs are the result of meticulous listening
tests on numerous circuit, topology, and packaging
designs. Your NSEQ is a finely tuned instrument
intended for critical professional applications —we
feel it is the world's most sonically neutral analog
EQ. With the emergence of 24+ bit digital audio,
recording engineers are faced with a new
requirement for undistorted dynamic range. The
NSEQ meets this challenge exceptionally well.
Before connecting power to the NSEQ, assure that
the rear panel voltage selection fuse block switch is
set correctly. In the USA, the NSEQ is shipped with
the voltage selection block set to 100-120 VAC. At
this voltage setting, a pair of 1 amp 5 x 20 mm slow
blow fuses have been factory installed. If you change
the voltage selection block to 200-240 VAC usage,
be sure to change both fuses to 500 milliamp (0.4
amp) slow blow types.
Safety Precautions
For your safety and the safety of others, be sure to
read and understand all safety and operational
instructions before attempting to use the NSEQ.
WARNING: The NSEQ's internal circuitry carries
lethal voltages. Carefully observe all warnings,
precautions, and instructions on the NSEQ and as
described in the instructions supplied with the unit.
Water, Moisture, and Spillage –Do not attempt
to use the NSEQ in, near, or around water or in
unusually moist environments, such as near a sink
or swimming pool. Prevent liquids or any other
materials or objects from spilling or falling into the
NSEQ unit.
Heat & Ventilation –Be sure to allow adequate
ventilation on both sides of the NSEQ and avoid
blocking the vents.
Power Sources & Power Cord Protection –The
NSEQ Power Supply should be connected to a power
source only of the type described in the operating
instructions or as marked on the Power Supply.
Route the power cord so that it is not likely to be
walked on or pinched by having objects placed on it.
Pay particular attention to plugs, receptacles, and
the point where the AC power cord exits the
NSEQ.
Grounding –For your safety, it is extremely
important that the grounding pin of the 3-wire power
cable (included with 110 Volt units) be inserted into
a grounding type 3-pin power outlet. If you are
unable to insert the plug into an existing outlet,
contact an electrician to install a properly grounded
3-pin power outlet, preferably that with OFI / GFI
protection, if available.
Damage Requiring Service –This unit should be
repaired or serviced by qualified personnel
whenever:
•The AC power cord has been damaged, or
•Objects have fallen or liquid has spilled into
any NSEQ unit, or
•The unit does not function properly or
exhibits a marked change in performance,
or
•The unit has been abused, dropped, or
damaged, or
•The unit has been exposed to rain or
moisture.
Servicing –Lethal voltages are found inside the
NSEQ chassis. The user should not attempt to repair
or service this unit. All servicing and/or repairs
should be referred to Millennia.
If, after reading all instructions, precautions, and
warnings, you have remaining questions, please
contact Millennia directly before attempting to use
your NSEQ.
The NSEQ enclosure measures approximately 17”
wide x 3.5” high x 12.5” deep and is designed for
mounting into a standard 1U, 19” equipment rack. If
the NSEQ is mounted in a road case or other rack
which is prone to strong vibration or shock, it is
highly recommended that the rear of the NSEQ be
supported or otherwise reinforced to withstand such
conditions.
NSEQ is designed on a common ground topology. For
high quality operation, and for your own safety and
the safety of others, do not defeat the power cord
earth grounding pin.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved
by MILLENNIA MEDIA, FPC (Millennia) could void
your authority to operate this equipment under the
EC, ICAN, or FCC rules.
Copyright –You acknowledge that no title to the
intellectual property in the NSEQ is transferred to
you.

Millennia Media NSEQ page 4 of 9
Inspection –Inspect packing box(es), NSEQ, and
cable(s) for damage, unusual marks, or shortages. It
is your responsibility to report damage, shortage, or
mis-shipments in a timely manner. Millennia and/or
its dealers will not be responsible for claims arising
from damage in shipping, nor will claims for shortage
or mis-shipments be honored, more than 10 days
after ship date.
Read this manual carefully and completely before
attempting to use the NSEQ. Improper operation
could result in damage to product. It is the user’s
responsibility to understand the safe use and
operation of this device.
The shipping box of the NSEQ system will include:
•Quick Start Guide
•UL approved power cord (110 V countries only
except Japan)
The material contained in this manual consists of
information that is property of Millennia and is
intended solely for use by the purchasers of the
equipment described in this manual. Without express
written permission, Millennia prohibits the duplication
of any portion of this manual or the use thereof for
any purpose other than the operation and/or
maintenance of the equipment described in this
manual. This manual may not be duplicated in whole
or in part without the written consent of Millennia.
The NSEQ serial number is located on the side and of
each unit. We suggest that you record the serial
number in the space provided below. Refer to it
whenever you call an authorized Millennia repair
facility or the manufacturer. Make sure that you
register your Millennia product(s) online.
Features and specifications subject to change
without notice.
© 2021 –Millennia Media, FPC., all rights reserved
Serial Number
__________________________________________
Purchase Date
__________________________________________
Where Purchased
__________________________________________

Page 5 of 9 rev 100321 Millennia Media NSEQ
NSEQ Controls
NSEQ-2 Front Panel
1. Band In/Out Switch "IN" —places its associated
EQ band in circuit or out of circuit
2. Frequency Select Switch —selects fixed high and
low band frequencies
3. Peak/Shelf Select —When LED is on, EQ is
shelving at 6 dB per octave. When LED is off, EQ is
peaking with a fixed "Q" of 1.0.
4. Boost/Cut Control —+18 dB of boost and -18 dB
of cut. Boost/Cut potentiometer has 21 detented
positions for accurate repeatability and session log-
ging.
5. Parametric Frequency Control –selects EQ center
frequency.
6. Parametric Frequency Range Select Switch
"10X" —When LED is on, frequencies as shown on
front panel legend are multiplied by 10X. When LED
is off, frequencies are as shown on front panel
legend.
7. Parametric Q Control –EQ bandwidth.
8. Master Equalizer In/Out Select Switch —"EQ
IN"places EQ in the signal path. Hardwired relay
bypass when out.
9. Twin Topology —Select J-FET (LED illuminated) or
Vacuum Tube circuitry.
10. Gain Range —+/- 18dB or +/- 9dB
11. Power Indicator —when illuminated shows the
NSEQ-2 is powered up and active.
12. Power Switch —turns power on and off.
NSEQ-4 Front Panel
1. Band In/Out Switch "IN" —places its associated
EQ band in circuit or out of circuit
2. Frequency Select Switch —selects fixed high and
low band frequencies
3. Peak/Shelf Select —When LED is on, EQ is
shelving at 6 dB per octave. When LED is off, EQ is
peaking with a fixed "Q" of 1.0.
4. Boost/Cut Control —+18 dB of boost and -18 dB
of cut. Boost/Cut potentiometer has 21 detented
positions for accurate repeatability and session log-
ging.
5. Parametric Frequency Control –selects EQ center
frequency.
6. Parametric Frequency Range Select Switch
"10X" —When LED is on, frequencies as shown on
front panel legend are multiplied by 10X. When LED
is off, frequencies are as shown on front panel
legend.
7. Parametric Q Control –EQ bandwidth.
8. Master Equalizer In/Out Select Switch —"EQ
IN"places EQ in the signal path. Hardwired relay
bypass when out.
9. Balanced/Unbalanced Input—Unbalanced
increases gain by 6dB to compensate for possible
signal loss when balanced and unbalanced
equipment is used in the same signal path.
10. Gain Range —+/- 18dB or +/- 9dB
11. Power Indicator —when illuminated shows the
NSEQ-4 is powered up and active.
12. Power Switch —turns power on and off.
6
1
8
1
2

Millennia Media NSEQ page 6 of 9
NSEQ Rear Panel
1. Inputs —In 1 (Left), In 2 (Right) Conventional 3-
pin female XLR input jacks for all balanced or
unbalanced line level signals.
2. Outputs —Out 1 (Left), Out 2 (Right) Conventional
3-pin male XLR output jacks.
3. Earth/Audio Ground Jumper —A barrier terminal
which ties earth ground to audio ground. If ground
"hum" loops are experienced when using the NSEQ-
4, removing this jumper may help. Using this
jumper, the integrity of the chassis/earth ground
connection is never compromised. Do not defeat
the earth grounding pin on the AC plug.
4. AC Voltage Mains Selection —The fuse block
contains two fuses; one fuse is in series with the hot
power line while the other fuse is in series with the
neutral power line. Both fuses must be installed.
To change the mains voltage selection, remove IEC power
connector and assure that the NSEQ-4 is not connected to
mains power. With a non-conductive tool, gently pry the fuse
block away from the power entry module. Slide out the
internal PC Board, turn it over, and reinsert the PCB so that
the desired AC mains voltage appears in the viewing window.
Double check that the fuses installed correspond to the AC
mains voltage range which appears in the viewing window.
Gently push the fuse block back until flush and snug.
Fuses: For 100-120 VAC mains, use two 5 x 20 mm, 1A, slow
blow, 250 V, Littelfuse 218 or equiv. For 200-240 VAC mains,
use two 5 x 20 mm, 1A, slow blow, 250 V, Littelfuse 218 or
equiv.
5. Power Entry —IEC Power Receptacle for use with
removable cords. Use only the power cord provided.
(Export units’ cords are provided by the distributor.)

Page 7 of 9 rev 100321 Millennia Media NSEQ
Millennia Media reserves the right to change specifications, delivery, and pricing without notice.
NSEQ-2 Specifications
“Q” Range
Q = 0.4 to 4.0 Adjustable on middle ranges
Q = 1.0 Fixed on low & high ranges
Maximum Output Level
> + 28 dBu (VT)
Maximum Input Level (EQ Flat)
+ 28 dBu (VT)
Maximum Input Level (EQ Full Boost)
+ 17 dBu (VT)
Frequency Response
+0 / -3 dB
sub 2 Hz to beyond 300 kHz
Noise (All EQ Stages In, Controls Flat)
-106 dBu (SS), -94 dBu (VT)
Maximum Boost (21 Step Detented)
+20 dB (+10 dB with range switch in)
Maximum Cut (21 Step Detented)
-20 dB (-10 dB with range switch in)
EQ Frequencies
Low Range Switch (Centers - Peak/Shelf Selectable):
20, 34, 56, 100, 180, 270
Low Mid Sweep:
20 Hz - 220 Hz or 200 Hz - 2.2 kHz.
10X Range switch selectable.
Hi Mid Sweep:
250 Hz - 2.5 kHz or 2.5 kHz - 25 kHz.
10X Range switch selectable.
High Range Switch (Centers - Peak/Shelf Selectable)
4.8 k, 5.8 k, 8.0 k, 10 k, 16 k, 21 k
THD + Noise
20 Hz - 30 kHz, All EQ Bands Switched In
< .009%, typ < .003 % (VT or SS)
Common Mode Rejection Ratio (With Balanced Option)
10 Hz - 20 KHz, 100 mV C.M.
> 60 dB, Typ > 80 dB
Slew Rate, +27 dBu Out
> 50 volts per microsecond
Main Hard-wire Bypass Switch For Each Channel?
Yes
Peak/Shelf Selection On High & Low Range?
Yes
Hard-wire Bypass Switching On Individual EQ Bands?
Yes
Input Impedance
25 kilohms
Minimum Output Load Impedance
1 kilohm (VT), 150 ohms (SS)
Recommended Load
> 3 kilohms (VT)
Output Impedance
< 300 ohms (VT), < 5 ohms (SS)
Twin Topology EQ Amplifiers
Switch In: Pure Class-A Discrete J-FETs
Switch Out: Pure Class-A Triode Tubes
Power Consumption
40 watts maximum
Power Requirements
Selectable: 100-120, 200-240 V ac, 50/60 Hz
Dimensions/Shipping Weight
19” W x 3.5” H x 12.5”, 26 lbs.

Millennia Media NSEQ page 8 of 9
Millennia Media reserves the right to change specifications, delivery, and pricing without notice.
NSEQ-4 Specifications
“Q” Range
Q = 0.4 to 4.0 Adjustable on middle ranges
Q = 1.0 Fixed on low & high ranges
Maximum Output Level
> + 28 dBu
Maximum Input Level (EQ Flat)
+ 28 dBu
Maximum Input Level (EQ Full Boost)
+ 17 dBu
Frequency Response
+0 / -3 dB
sub 2 Hz to beyond 300 kHz
Noise (All EQ Stages In, Controls Flat)
-106 dBu
Maximum Boost (21 Step Detented)
+20 dB (+10 dB with range switch in)
Maximum Cut (21 Step Detented)
-20 dB (-10 dB with range switch in)
EQ Frequencies
Low Range Switch (Centers - Peak/Shelf Selectable):
20, 34, 56, 100, 180, 270
Low Mid Sweep:
20 Hz - 220 Hz or 200 Hz - 2.2 kHz.
10X Range switch selectable.
Hi Mid Sweep:
250 Hz - 2.5 kHz or 2.5 kHz - 25 kHz.
10X Range switch selectable.
High Range Switch (Centers - Peak/Shelf Selectable)
4.8 k, 5.8 k, 8.0 k, 10 k, 16 k, 21 k
THD + Noise
20 Hz - 30 kHz, All EQ Bands Switched In
< .009%, typ < .003 %
Common Mode Rejection Ratio
10 Hz - 20 KHz, 100 mV C.M.
> 60 dB, Typ > 80 dB
Slew Rate, +27 dBu Out
> 50 volts per microsecond
Main Hard-wire Bypass Switch For Each Channel?
Yes
Peak/Shelf Selection On High & Low Range?
Yes
Hard-wire Bypass Switching On Individual EQ Bands?
Yes
Input Impedance
25 kilohms
Minimum Output Load Impedance
50 ohms
Recommended Load
> 500 ohms
Output Impedance
5 ohms
EQ Amplifiers
Pure Class-A Discrete J-FETs
Power Consumption
30 watts maximum
Power Requirements
Selectable: 100-120, 200-240 V ac, 50/60 Hz
Dimensions/Shipping Weight
19” W x 3.5” H x 12.5”, 25 lbs.

Page 9 of 9 rev 100321 Millennia Media NSEQ
World Wide Warranty
We will repair our products, free of charge, in the event of
defect of materials or workmanship for two (2) years
following date of purchase.
This limited warranty covers failures due only to defects in
materials and workmanship which occur during normal,
intended use and does not cover damage which occurs in
shipment or failures which are caused by products not
supplied by Millennia Media.
This limited warranty does not cover failures which arise from
accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, mishandling, misapplication,
faulty installation, improper adjustment, alteration or
modification of product, incompatibilities, line-power surges,
acts of God, or service performed by anyone other than
Millennia Media or its authorized agent.
Limits and Exclusions –There are no express warranties
except as listed above. Millennia shall not be liable for special,
subsequent, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages,
including, but not limited to: damage to recordings,
broadcasts, microphones, mixing consoles, or any associated
equipment, downtime costs, loss of goodwill, or claims of any
party dealing with purchaser for such damages resulting from
the use of this product. All warranties express and implied,
including the warranties of merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose are limited to the applicable warranty
period set forth above.
Vacuum tube and bulb failures are not covered under
warranty. Shipping costs to/from factory are not covered
under this warranty. International warranty law may vary
from country to country, and Millennia will abide by the law of
each country from which the product was initially sold.
For North American repairs and service, contact Millennia
([email protected]) to obtain a Return Authorization
number. Please include your shipping address, daytime
phone number and description of the problem. Outside of
North America, please contact your local Millennia Distributor.
Discarding Units
In the event that any Millennia equipment manufactured after
July 1, 2006 needs to be discarded, you must return it to
Millennia, at our headquarters in California, USA. Please
contact the distributor in your country or Millennia directly for
instructions. We will make arrangements to have the
equipment shipped to us at no cost to you, and we will
dispose of it in a manner that complies with whatever
regulations are in existence at that time.
Millennia Music & Media Systems
6411 Capitol Avenue
Diamond Springs, CA 95619
530-647-0750
[email protected]
http://www.mil-media.com
The NSEQ is proudly hand-crafted in the USA