[quote author="JohnRoberts"]Just to be a little contrary, the distinction isn't specifically between IC and inductors, but more like capacitors (RC) vs Inductors (RLC), with the older designs more likely to be discrete vs. IC. So multiple variables involved in this comparison.
While it is possible to make gyrator circuits (IC + RC) that mimmic or perhaps better real inductors (less hum field sensitivity, etc). I doubt the circuit topologies being compared are apple to apples.
Perhaps if one determines a classic product worth modernizing, the topology could be replicated with gyrators in place of inductors and ICs for discrete with even better performance, while covering the classic transfer function. Unless it's the flaws and nonlinearity of the older designs that contribute to a sound that people recall fondly.
Modern designs don't take this approach because it is more parts intensive (read more expensive) than simple RC filter sets.
Or not.. YMMV
JR[/quote]
Good points John, I've certainly used nice graphic eqs based around IC opamps and rotten ones based on IC opamps. As ever it depends on the implementation.
Cheers,
Ruairi