Through numerical simulations we show that the propagation of pairs of optical pulses in a double-Λ configuration is favorable for the attainment of electromagnetically induced transparency with matched pulses, even through a long absorbing sample. The double-Λ configuration allows a flexible and precise control of the amplitudes and phases for the propagating pulses. Different atomic and field configurations based on a double-Λ system in rubidium atoms have been explored.

• Received 16 November 1994

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.52.R1823