A forward signal equalizer for a forward amplifier for two-way coaxial cable systems, of the type having a distribution center distributing forward signals, and having reception facilities for receiving return signals from said cable system, the system having forward amplifiers for receiving forward signals, and having return amplifiers, and the forward signal equalizers are settable to provide varying amplifier specifications, and having receptacles for receiving plug-in equalizer components for varying the specifications of the forward amplifier, the equalizer components having a range of varying performance characteristics so that a component can be selected and plugged in to the forward signal equalizer to produce the performance specifications desired at a predetermined location in the cable system.