yes.. meters react if eq is after MB.. and it should not!
I give up long time ago on current MB when that and similar things comes into question. So waiting new MB. Soon!
Also ofc it is not same when EQ is before and after MB. You want always to put it before MB! IT should even be before AGC!
EQ After MB, for example lower bands, are harder to control. MB is place where 'sound' is created.
It's similar like you want to place EQ after clipper.
But that also makes another question. What about Bass Boost, It's always after MB! Well.. lately, I am trying to not use it.