Programmable EQ

What is an Equalizer?

An equalizer (EQ) is a set of filters which allow the operator to adjust or change the frequency response of the sound system. It also allows the operator to compensate for speaker deficiencies or change the system response for specific needs (see the following examples).

So What is a Programmable Equalizer?

A programmable equalizer is an equalizer plus, it allows multiple settings to be stored in memory. The operator can adjust the system for a particular use, store it in memory, readjust the system and again store it in memory. Now, with the touch of a button, the operator can recall the different settings and instantly change the sound of the system for a specific event.

Why Would you Need This in the Gym Sound System?

The gym is used for many events in most schools. Here are three applications:

Sporting Events: For sports events, the system needs to be highly intelligible despite loud crowd noise. In this situation, speech intelligibility is more important than the ability to produce high quality music sound. The system Programmable EQ is adjusted to produce a clear sound that can cut through the crowd noise. Often, the bass response is reduced to help improve the clarity.

Assemblies or Symposiums: For this type of event, the system does not need to produce as much volume, though it still needs to be clear. The system engineer can adjust the system so it produces a clear natural sound for good speech intelligibility.

Musicals: The previous speech settings would not be appropriate if the system was being used for a musical. For music, the bass response is very important so the music sounds natural. The high frequencies are also critical for reproducing the important musical harmonics of instruments and voices. Assuming the basic sound system is capable of reproducing good musical quality, the programmable equalizer can be adjusted to maximize the sound quality.

Another application would be to adjust the system for maximum gain-before-feedback (volume) when floor or other area microphones are used for drama or musicals. Feedback is often a problem for these events, and careful use of the equalizer can help.

How do I Adjust the Programmable Equalizer?

Accurate adjustment is very difficult to do without proper test equipment and more importantly experience. The equalizer is probably the most abused and misadjusted piece of sound equipment because it is often adjusted by inexperienced operators. If misadjusted, the resultant sound quality is worse than without the equalizer. During adjustment, try switching the equalizer bypass switch in and out. The system should sound better with the equalizer switched in or it should be adjusted again. Please call us for help. We have the staff, equipment, and experience to do the job right.

Can the Programmable Equalizer be Added to My Sound System?

Figure 1

Most current sound systems will allow the addition of a programmable equalizer. However, it may be more difficult to add it to an older, simpler sound system. The equalizer is positioned in the system signal flow between the mixer and the amplifiers (see Figure 1). Many newer, self-contained, mixer/amplifiers have the features to connect an equalizer. Systems with separate microphone mixers and amplifiers easily allow the addition of a programmable equalizer.

We would be glad to help you improve your sound system with this addition. Please call us and we will answer your sound system questions. We understand that the sound system can be very intimidating. Let us be your expert!

by Ron Huisinga © 1996 Internet Sound Institute (www.soundinstitute.com). This article is for personal use only. Any commercial reproduction is not permitted without permission. To obtain permission, contact ISI at hopi@soundinstitute.com

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