---
product_id: 540830270
title: "Balanced EQ Preamp: 7-Band Equalizer - Vacuum Tube Preamplifier with XLR RCA Inputs & Outputs - for Home Stereo HiFi System, Amplifiers, Active Speakers (T8 PRO Black)"
brand: "douk audio"
price: "HK$1681"
currency: HKD
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 12
category: "Douk Audio"
url: https://www.desertcart.hk/products/540830270-balanced-eq-preamp-7-band-equalizer-vacuum-tube-preamplifier-xlr
store_origin: HK
region: Hong Kong
---

# Upgradable vacuum tubes for warm analog sound Dual XLR/RCA balanced I/O, noise-free 7-band EQ (50Hz-16KHz) precision tuning Balanced EQ Preamp: 7-Band Equalizer - Vacuum Tube Preamplifier with XLR RCA Inputs & Outputs - for Home Stereo HiFi System, Amplifiers, Active Speakers (T8 PRO Black)

**Brand:** douk audio
**Price:** HK$1681
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🎛️ Elevate your audio game with vintage warmth and precision tuning — don’t just listen, experience!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** Balanced EQ Preamp: 7-Band Equalizer - Vacuum Tube Preamplifier with XLR RCA Inputs & Outputs - for Home Stereo HiFi System, Amplifiers, Active Speakers (T8 PRO Black) by douk audio
- **How much does it cost?** HK$1681 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.hk](https://www.desertcart.hk/products/540830270-balanced-eq-preamp-7-band-equalizer-vacuum-tube-preamplifier-xlr)

## Best For

- douk audio enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted douk audio brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Flexible Studio-Grade Setup:** Switch inputs per channel and output simultaneously via RCA and XLR, making integration with amplifiers and active speakers effortless.
- • **Tailor Your Sound Like a Pro:** 7-band equalizer lets you sculpt highs, mids, and lows with studio-grade precision to fix speaker flaws and elevate any audio source.
- • **Seamless Balanced Connectivity:** Dual XLR and RCA inputs/outputs with balanced signal paths eliminate interference, ensuring crystal-clear, distortion-free sound.
- • **Warm Analog Vibes with Tube Power:** Equipped with 6H1N-BN vacuum tubes and pluggable sockets for ECC85/6SN7, enabling personalized tube rolling for that coveted vintage warmth.
- • **Sleek, Durable Design with Vintage Glow:** Compact aluminum chassis with EMI shielding and iconic tube glow adds both noise-free performance and a stylish desktop presence.

## Overview

The Douk Audio T8 PRO is a professional 7-band vacuum tube preamplifier and equalizer designed for audiophiles and home stereo enthusiasts. Featuring balanced XLR and RCA inputs/outputs, it delivers interference-free sound with precise tonal control across 50Hz to 16KHz. Its upgradable vacuum tubes provide customizable analog warmth, while flexible input/output switching and a compact, EMI-shielded metal chassis make it a versatile, stylish addition to any HiFi setup.

## Description

Buy Douk Audio Balanced EQ Preamp: 7-Band Equalizer - Vacuum Tube Preamplifier with XLR RCA Inputs & Outputs - for Home Stereo HiFi System, Amplifiers, Active Speakers (T8 PRO Black): Preamplifiers - desertcart.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

Review: An incredible amount of fun for the buck - I've had the T8 Pro for a number of weeks now and through a series of fortunate events have ended up with a second, so now I'm lucky enough to have both a silver and black model which I've been using to experiment with tube rolling (makes A/B testing incredibly convenient). I'd like to first address what I consider to be the sole con of this device which is the ever so slight reduction in clarity. I think this is just about a given in cheap preamps/equalizers, especially tube based models. I have a relatively high end DAC (Geshelli Labs J2 Socketed with the AK4499 DAC chip) and frankly I was expecting a bit more in terms of the hit in clarity. Overall, it's a very minor veiling and it doesn't really affect my enjoyment of my music. Now on to the pros which I believe are myriad. First is the fact that not only does this EQ have balanced inputs and outputs, but it does both XLR to RCA conversion and vice versa. I find these features to be pretty much non existent in gear this inexpensive. I currently mostly use the XLR input, but I've experimented with this feature and it works very well. Build quality is very nice with a solid metal chassis and suitable heft for a device this size. The 7 bands of the EQ are very nicely spaced out and I have no problem modeling the sound precisely as I like quickly and easily. If you're contemplating between the T8 and T8 Pro, it's a no brainer, get the T8 Pro. The two extra bands of EQ are far more valuable than the headphone amp included in the standard T8 unless one is on a tight budget and really wants an integrated headphone amp. I've heard the headphone amp isn't very good and I'm likely to believe that considering how much hardware for the money is already included. The difference in price between the two is negligible and now with coupon, the T8 Pro is actually cheaper. The EQ does provide gain and it does so very cleanly. I rarely push the volume beyond the 12 o'clock position, but when I do, it can feed plenty of gain to my amplifier and it does so with zero distortion that I can notice. Now for my favorite feature of this EQ: the tubes! The included 6H1N-BN tubes impart a very pleasant tube warmth to my Archel 2.5XL amp. I loved the sound of this amp before, but this EQ was the missing link that I was searching for. Lastly is the ability for not only tube rolling, but OP amp rolling as well. I've tried a set of 12au7 tubes so far and I found that they provide an even more euphonic character to an already very sweet sounding system. You can pick up a gain matched pair for around $60, and while that is about 50% of the cost of this EQ, I can say it's a fairly solid upgrade to an already very solid EQ. I haven't experimented with op amp rolling as of yet, but there are 5 dip-8 sockets by my count, so I'm looking forward to playing around with that as well. There are plenty of op amps ranging from a few bucks a piece to around $100 a piece, so this unit seems to be very upgradable. I haven't experimented with linear power supplies either, but I imagine that's another possible sonic upgrade to look forward to in the future. Overall, I am extremely impressed with this EQ. It's cheap, yet very solidly constructed, does exactly what it says it does and offers much in terms of user customization. Frankly, I'm fairly puzzled by the somewhat average reviews for this as I consider it to be an absolutely incredible value. I'm a big fan of Schiit products, but the Loki and the Lokius don't offer the functionality or that sweet tube character of the T8 Pro. The Loki isn't balanced and offers only a paltry 4 bands of equalization. The Lokius is balanced, but around 3x the price of the T8 Pro and still only has 6 bands of EQ. These are both nice units, but I can say assuredly that I prefer the T8 Pro. I really think you need to step up to one of the Freyas at several times the price before you get superior sound and customization to the T8 Pro. If you're looking for an equalizer, especially one that is tube based or which offers balanced inputs and outputs, don't sleep on this deal. I really couldn't be much happier with it.
Review: Eh, it's ok ,,, not awful but not great. - Eh, it's pretty quiet but not 125dB pass-thru quality. It does add color like it's supposed to but also, it's just another piece of gear in the audio chain to further degrade the dynamics of the sound source.

## Features

- Professional 7-band equalizer (50Hz-16KHz) precisely adjusts highs/mids/lows to compensate speaker defects & optimize any sound source, delivering custom audiophile-grade acoustic profiles.
- Dual XLR/RCA inputs & outputs with balanced signal transmission eliminate interference noise, while independent channel balance control ensures accurate stereo imaging.
- Upgradable 6H1N-BN vacuum tubes generate warm HiFi analog sound signature; pluggable sockets support ECC85/6SN7GT tubes for personalized timbre sculpting.
- CH1/CH2 input switching & simultaneous RCA/XLR output modes enable flexible connectivity with amplifiers/active speakers, simplifying studio-grade setups.
- Compact aluminum chassis with EMI-shielding iron plate fits desktops seamlessly, featuring vintage tube glow for both aesthetic appeal and noise-free performance.

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B0C5MHZ68Y |
| Best Sellers Rank | #41,500 in Electronics ( See Top 100 in Electronics ) #31 in Audio Component Preamplifiers |
| Color Name | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Active Speakers, Amplifier, CD Player, PC, TV |
| Connector Type | RCA |
| Customer Reviews | 4.0 4.0 out of 5 stars (107) |
| Date First Available | May 18, 2023 |
| Item Weight | 1.51 pounds |
| Item model number | SUC-T8-PRO-H |
| Material Type | Metal |
| Power Source | DC power supply |
| Product Dimensions | 5.04 x 7.32 x 1.5 inches |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** Douk Audio
- **Color:** Black
- **Compatible Devices:** Active Speakers, Amplifier, CD Player, PC, TV
- **Material:** Metal
- **Product Dimensions:** 5.04"D x 7.32"W x 1.5"H

## Images

![Balanced EQ Preamp: 7-Band Equalizer - Vacuum Tube Preamplifier with XLR RCA Inputs & Outputs - for Home Stereo HiFi System, Amplifiers, Active Speakers (T8 PRO Black) - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61QYkRhiqbL.jpg)

## Questions & Answers

**Q: What does this device do?**
A: T8 can compensate for the defects of speakers and sound field by adjusting 7-band high, middle and low frequencies, and modify various sound sources. The timbre and loudness also can be changed to achieve different sound effects.

**Q: Can I use RCA and XLR outputs simultaneously?​​**
A: Yes! Both outputs work concurrently - connect XLR to studio monitors and RCA to a subwoofer simultaneously. Ideal for multi-amp setups without signal degradation. Perfect for A/B testing or expanding your audio chain.

**Q: How do I reset EQ frequencies to neutral?​**
A: Rotate any band's knob until you feel a tactile pause at the center position (scale line vertical). This zero point means no boost/cut applied. Reset all knobs to center for flat reference response.

**Q: What tubes can I upgrade to?**
A: Stock 6H1N-BN tubes support direct swaps with 6N1/6AQ8/ECC85. For 6SN7GT tubes, you MUST use a 6SN7-to-6N1 adapter (not included). Adapter ensures proper pin alignment and voltage safety.

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An incredible amount of fun for the buck
*by A***R on November 8, 2023*

I've had the T8 Pro for a number of weeks now and through a series of fortunate events have ended up with a second, so now I'm lucky enough to have both a silver and black model which I've been using to experiment with tube rolling (makes A/B testing incredibly convenient). I'd like to first address what I consider to be the sole con of this device which is the ever so slight reduction in clarity. I think this is just about a given in cheap preamps/equalizers, especially tube based models. I have a relatively high end DAC (Geshelli Labs J2 Socketed with the AK4499 DAC chip) and frankly I was expecting a bit more in terms of the hit in clarity. Overall, it's a very minor veiling and it doesn't really affect my enjoyment of my music. Now on to the pros which I believe are myriad. First is the fact that not only does this EQ have balanced inputs and outputs, but it does both XLR to RCA conversion and vice versa. I find these features to be pretty much non existent in gear this inexpensive. I currently mostly use the XLR input, but I've experimented with this feature and it works very well. Build quality is very nice with a solid metal chassis and suitable heft for a device this size. The 7 bands of the EQ are very nicely spaced out and I have no problem modeling the sound precisely as I like quickly and easily. If you're contemplating between the T8 and T8 Pro, it's a no brainer, get the T8 Pro. The two extra bands of EQ are far more valuable than the headphone amp included in the standard T8 unless one is on a tight budget and really wants an integrated headphone amp. I've heard the headphone amp isn't very good and I'm likely to believe that considering how much hardware for the money is already included. The difference in price between the two is negligible and now with coupon, the T8 Pro is actually cheaper. The EQ does provide gain and it does so very cleanly. I rarely push the volume beyond the 12 o'clock position, but when I do, it can feed plenty of gain to my amplifier and it does so with zero distortion that I can notice. Now for my favorite feature of this EQ: the tubes! The included 6H1N-BN tubes impart a very pleasant tube warmth to my Archel 2.5XL amp. I loved the sound of this amp before, but this EQ was the missing link that I was searching for. Lastly is the ability for not only tube rolling, but OP amp rolling as well. I've tried a set of 12au7 tubes so far and I found that they provide an even more euphonic character to an already very sweet sounding system. You can pick up a gain matched pair for around $60, and while that is about 50% of the cost of this EQ, I can say it's a fairly solid upgrade to an already very solid EQ. I haven't experimented with op amp rolling as of yet, but there are 5 dip-8 sockets by my count, so I'm looking forward to playing around with that as well. There are plenty of op amps ranging from a few bucks a piece to around $100 a piece, so this unit seems to be very upgradable. I haven't experimented with linear power supplies either, but I imagine that's another possible sonic upgrade to look forward to in the future. Overall, I am extremely impressed with this EQ. It's cheap, yet very solidly constructed, does exactly what it says it does and offers much in terms of user customization. Frankly, I'm fairly puzzled by the somewhat average reviews for this as I consider it to be an absolutely incredible value. I'm a big fan of Schiit products, but the Loki and the Lokius don't offer the functionality or that sweet tube character of the T8 Pro. The Loki isn't balanced and offers only a paltry 4 bands of equalization. The Lokius is balanced, but around 3x the price of the T8 Pro and still only has 6 bands of EQ. These are both nice units, but I can say assuredly that I prefer the T8 Pro. I really think you need to step up to one of the Freyas at several times the price before you get superior sound and customization to the T8 Pro. If you're looking for an equalizer, especially one that is tube based or which offers balanced inputs and outputs, don't sleep on this deal. I really couldn't be much happier with it.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Eh, it's ok ,,, not awful but not great.
*by M***O on December 24, 2025*

Eh, it's pretty quiet but not 125dB pass-thru quality. It does add color like it's supposed to but also, it's just another piece of gear in the audio chain to further degrade the dynamics of the sound source.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Nice addition for Systems that just need minor tweaks. Good Value so Far.
*by D***D on December 12, 2025*

I have been an audiophile for 40+ years, owned recording studios and heard more than my fair share of top end equipment. This unit adds a touch of warmth and allows small tweaks to eq that gives high quality systems a bit more in terms of imaging, top end air and soundstage clarity. Like any other piece of equipment, it needs to be part of a system where the other gear allows for hearing the subtle differences. It is very clean and allows me to add just a little air to the top end and warmth to the lower mids so I can dial in the sound I want. I am talking minor adjustments and not big eq changes. If you are looking for a this to make so-so systems sound glorious, that won't happen and overdoing eq is not the way to do that in the first place. Start with small cuts to certain frequencies based on your system and room. If you are going to add, make it very small additions, not cranking the gains. For the money, it works very well if not overdone and you have decent speakers amps and or amp/preamp combos. Very good value for the money and the tubes can be upgraded very easily and affordably. They are a very minor part of the way this unit processes sound but add just a small touch of that tube warmth. The balanced outputs sound really good. I hope it lasts but first impressions are better than I expected at this price point.

## Frequently Bought Together

- Douk Audio HiFi Vacuum Tube 7-Band EQ Preamp Equalizer XLR Pre-Amplifier Home (T8 PRO)
- Monoprice 1.5ft Premium 2 RCA Plug/2 RCA Plug M/M 22AWG Cable - Black
- Tan QY 2RCA to 2RCA Cable 3Ft, Gold-Plated 2 RCA Male to 2 RCA Male Stereo Audio Cable for Home Theater, HDTV, Gaming Consoles, Hi-Fi Systems (3Ft/1M)

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*Product available on Desertcart Hong Kong*
*Store origin: HK*
*Last updated: 2026-01-26*