Optimum Equalizer Settings
Printed From: the12volt.com
Forum Name: Car Audio
Forum Discription: Car Stereos, Amplifiers, Crossovers, Processors, Speakers, Subwoofers, etc.
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=4702
Printed Date: July 26, 2025 at 6:52 AM
Topic: Optimum Equalizer Settings
Posted By: crroush
Subject: Optimum Equalizer Settings
Date Posted: October 21, 2002 at 7:06 PM
I am curious if anyone knows of reference or a way to optimize the settings of both center freqs and gains for a paragraphic equalizer (say 7 bands). I am looking for more of a mathematical way to model it based on the music, not just "adjust it tell it sounds good to you". Thanks Craig
Replies:
Posted By: NyxBass
Date Posted: October 21, 2002 at 8:47 PM
Well, the accepted way of setting any equalizer for a starting point is to set it "flat." This is done using a RTA (real-time analyzer), a piece of equipment that shows the frequency response of the system graphically (think the fun little bouncing bars with bass on the left and treble on the right). Generally, these are pretty expensive pieces of gear, and only shops or big pro sound rigs have them. The testing involves running full audio bandwidth noise (pink noise) through the system, and the RTA's mic reads how the system responds compared to the flat input signal. Then, the tester can adjust the EQ until the signal is as "flat" a line as possible. You can approximate this with just a db meter and a test signal CD, but it is much more time consuming. just play each tone, record the level, and then compare. All should be the same. If they are not, then whatever frequencies were the highest need to be cut and so on until they are all relatively the same. Obviously, this is a slow process. Also, flat does not necessarily sound the best, and one setting that is good for some music may not be suitable for other music. Sometimes the system will be EQ’d flat, and then a secondary EQ in the dash will be used to contour for the particular song. But there are many ways. I would start by looking into having a (good) shop “tune” your system, or at least run a RTA for you and help set it flat. This is where having friends at big shops really helps ; ) Good luck, come back for any other questions.
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/NyxBass
Posted By: crroush
Date Posted: October 21, 2002 at 9:24 PM
Sorry I guess my question wasn't clear. What I am trying to model (mathematically) based on the FFT of a real time audio signal I want to make or formulate a relationship between the input FFT and the output (optimum equalizer settings) as a general expression that will work for all genre's of music. I just wanted to know if anyone has read about this type of synthesis so that I can possibly check out some papers and what not. The system that I am designing will be all digital using DSP chips (TM320's most likely) and FIR filters to realize the equalizer portion. I am just trying to find the "best way" to do the mathematical modeling of this thats all. Craig ps. I have messed with spectrum analyzers in the lab, they are REALLY cool pieces of machinary. It is cheaper to build one yourself though heh.
Posted By: Velocity Motors
Date Posted: October 22, 2002 at 12:55 AM
Mathematically and RTA both do not make a good sounding system. Only " YOUR " ears can make the final decision on what sounds good. I for one do not like the sound of a 37 out of 40 RTA...... not enough bass for my liking. I have never heard a 40/40 system and I don't think it's too far off from my systems that I've built. Any ways.... I hope these links can help you out and if not.... post again: ------------- Jeff
Velocity Custom Home Theater
Mobile Audio/Video Specialist
Morden, Manitoba CANADA
Posted By: NyxBass
Date Posted: October 22, 2002 at 6:05 PM
I really can't help you on that one. I like the idea as a base line, but I do not really have any guesses on going about it. "ps. I have messed with spectrum analyzers in the lab, they are REALLY cool pieces of machinary. It is cheaper to build one yourself though heh." Agreed! ------------- /NyxBass
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