Finding the best graphics equalizer suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. BEHRINGER FBQ1502HD
Feature
Professional 15-band stereo graphic equalizer for live and studio applicationsRevolutionary FBQ Feedback Detection system instantly reveals critical frequencies and can also be used as audio analyzer
Ultra-low noise 4580 operational amplifiers for highest signal integrity
Dedicated mono subwoofer output with adjustable crossover frequency
Additional low-cut filter removes unwanted frequencies, e.g. floor rumble
Description
BEHRINGER 15BAND EQ WITH FBQ2. dbx 231s Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer
Feature
Dual 31-band, 1/3-octave Constant Q frequency bandsSwitchable boost/cut ranges of 6 or 12 dB
Front panel bypass switch
12 dB input gain range
4-segment LED ladders for monitoring output levels
Inputs: " TRS and female XLR (pin 2 hot)
Outputs: " TRS and male XLR (pin 2 hot)
Description
When the pros need an EQ, they turn to dB. With a proven track record that spans four decades, dB EQs are the industry standard for touring, studios, and audio installations. With the dB heritage of revered Pro EQs, the 231s meets the needs of the most demanding sound reinforcement environments, while offering the simplicity of straightforward controls. The dB 231s includes two 31-band channels of 1/3-octave equalization, 12 dB input gain, switchable 6 dB or 12 dB boost/cut range, 20mm nonconductive sliders, an intuitive user interface, and output level metering. From its extended 10Hz to 50kHz frequency response and 112 dB dynamic range to the quality componentry and meticulous attention to detail, The 231s offers exceptional sound and rugged reliability that guarantees you will always sound your best. Sure to find a home in the studio, on tour and with installed sound venues, The dB 231s is destined to take its rightful place in the lineage of great dB signal processors that are the professional's choice in signal processing. With such affordable quality, There's no longer any excuse for compromising your sound.3. BEHRINGER MINIFBQ FBQ800
Feature
Ultra-compact 9.5" graphic equalizer for studio and stage applicationsRevolutionary FBQ Feedback Detection system instantly reveals critical frequencies and can also be used as Audio Analyzer
Additional Low-cut filter removes unwanted frequencies, e. g. floor rumble
Accurate 6-segment LED input/output meters and Level control for precise level indication
High-quality illuminated faders, potentiometers and illuminated switches for long-term reliability
Description
BEHRINGER MINIFBQ FBQ800
Ultra-Compact 9-Band Graphic Equalizer with FBQ
- Ultra-compact 9.5" graphic equalizer for studio and stage applications
- Revolutionary FBQ Feedback Detection system instantly reveals critical frequencies and can also be used as Audio Analyzer
- Additional Low-cut filter removes unwanted frequencies, e. g. floor rumble
- Accurate 6-segment LED input/output meters and Level control for precise level indication
- High-quality illuminated faders, potentiometers and illuminated switches for long-term reliability
- Ultra-low noise audio operational amplifiers offer outstanding sound performance
- All Mini Series models can be stacked on top of each other to create an ultra-compact signal processor solution
- High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life
- Conceived and designed by BEHRINGER Germany
Why do I need an equalizer?
If we all lived in a perfect world, there would be no need for audio equalization. Sound systems would be perfect and would reproduce perfect signals in all their glorious perfection. Also, everyone in that perfect world would like the same amount of bass, midrange and high frequency, and there would be no such thing as feedback. But the world isn't perfect, is it? Even the best sound system can benefit from the use of a good EQ - like the FBQ800.
How Does it Work?
Imagine the frequency range of the sound you hear as a highway, a very wide one with nine lanes. Each of these "lanes" represents a single octave of the sonic spectrum. The first four lanes, labeled 63 - 500 (Hz) contain the really low frequency sound content, mainly bass, bass vocals, and the kick and tom drums. The three lanes labeled 1 k, 2 k and 4 k (Hz), make up the fundamental zone of most musical instruments and the male and female vocals. 8 k and 16 k cover the frequency range of cymbals, snare drums and higher pitched percussion instruments. The FBQ800 allows you to control the flow of audio traffic in each of these nine lanes. When properly applied, EQ makes it possible to hear all of these frequency ranges equally, thus the term equalization.
Feedback Elimination
When a specifi c frequency, or range of frequencies, reaches too high a level, feedback occurs - that all-too-familiar squeal or howl you get when the mic is too close to the speaker. Basically, feedback happens when there is so much of a particular frequency that it is picked up by the mic and run through the system again. That's why feedback typically gets louder and louder the longer it's allowed to occur. Needless to say, this kind of feedback is very undesirable.
This is where the FBQ800's Feedback Detection System really works its magic. In this ingenious circuitry, LEDs on the individual faders light up when that frequency band is approaching the danger zone. All you need do is lower the illuminated slider until the LED blinks out - voil, feedback problem solved! What once required a highly trained ear is now an activity that even a child can master.
Sonic Toolkit...
That really is the best way to describe the FBQ800. With its nine frequency bands, you easily fine-tune your sound and instantly eliminate feedback. And each fader can be used to boost or cut the frequency range it controls by as much as 12 dB (and that's a lot!).
Special attention is paid to the low frequency zone. In addition to low frequency faders, the FBQ800 features a Low Cut fi lter for removing unwanted low frequencies such as fl oor rumble, room resonance, electrical hum, etc. This is especially handy if your system is being used for speech rather than music.
To Boost or to Cut, That is the Question
Raising and lowering specific frequency bands can improve the frequency response of any room's acoustics. For instance, if the room you're in is "bass-heavy," lowering the 63 and 125 Hz faders can help eliminate an overall "boomy" or "muddy" sound. Likewise, gently boosting the 8 and 16 k sliders can add sparkle to a somewhat "dark" mix. Are the vocals getting lost in the mix? Raising the level of the 1 k slider can help bring them out.
It's important to note that raising a single fader level is not always the best solution; it's often better to lower the bands surrounding the frequency you want to bring out, and then boost the overall volume level to achieve better headroom.
Built for Accuracy and Reliability
Speaking of headroom, FBQ800's 6-digit LED Input/Output meters and level control are provided for precise level maintenance. Longterm reliability is ensured, thanks to high-quality illuminated faders and switches, and our ultra low-noise audio operational amplifi ers provide outstanding sonic performance. In addition, all Mini Series components may be stacked to create an ultracompact signal processing solution.
4. Rockville REQ42-B Black 19" Rack Mount 2 x 21 Band Equalizer w/Spectrum Analyzer
Feature
Rockville REQ42-B Black 19" Rack Mount 2 x 21 Band Equalizer w/Spectrum Analyzer.19" Rack MountableDual Channel 21+21 Band Graphic Equalizer (total of 42 bands)
Blue LED on each Equalizer Slide Control
RCA stereo input: DVD/Tape/Tuner/Aux-MP3 with Front Panel Selector Switch
RCA Stereo Record Output. Front Panel 3.5mm iPod/MP3 Player Input Jack
Dual VU Meters Level Monitor. Individual LED Indicators
Outputs-RCA (REC, Mail). Multi Color LED Display
Low/High Function. Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
Signal to Noise Ratio: 80dB
Removable Rack Mount Brackets
Description
Rockville REQ42-BThe Rockville REQ42-B is a 19 rack mountable equalizer that has individual LED
indicators and RCA outputs. It has a frequency response of 20-20,000 Hz and a
Signal to Noise Ratio Signal to Noise Ratio of 80dB. This equalizer has a weight
of 6 lbs.
Features:
Rockville REQ42-B Black 19" Rack Mount 2 x 21 Band Equalizer w/Spectrum
Analyzer
19" Rack Mountable
Dual Channel 21+21 Band Graphic Equalizer (total of 42 bands)
Blue LED on each Equalizer Slide Control
RCA stereo input: DVD/Tape/Tuner/Aux-MP3 with Front Panel Selector Switch
RCA Stereo Record Output
Front Panel 3.5mm iPod/MP3 Player Input Jack
Dual VU Meters Level Monitor
Individual LED Indicators
Outputs-RCA (REC, Mail)
Multi Color LED Display
Low/High Function
Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
Signal to Noise Ratio: 80dB
Removable Rack Mount Brackets
5. Pyle-Pro PPEQ100 19'' Rack Mount Dual 10 Band 4 Source Input Stereo Spectrum Graphic Equalizer
Feature
Dual 10 Bands EQ with Blue Leds - Four Input Audio SourcesRemovable Rack Mount Brackets
VFD Diaplay Screen
110v/220v Switchable Power Source
Dimensions: 16.9'' x 9.3'' x 2''
Description
The PPEQ100 is perhaps one of the hottest equalizers on the market. With 10 dual band eq's, each monitored by an electric blue LED, you can't go wrong. Change the shape, texture, and even color of your sound with this equalizer. Also, the mount brackets are removable for easy storage and use.6. Rockville REQ231 Dual 31 Band 1/3 Octave Graphic Equalizer With Sub-Output!
Feature
Rockville REQ231 Dual 31 Band 1/3 Octave Graphic Equalizer With Sub-Output. Dual channel (31 bands per channel). Variable stage low and high cut filters.1/3 octave filter sets (ISO centers). 20 Hz to 20 kHz effective equalization range. Constant Q filters. Selectable 6dB or 12dB cut or boost range. Output level LEDs (-10 to +17 dB).
Bypass switch with status LED. Balanced XLR input/output. Subwoofer out. Channels: 2 (stereo). Connectors: XLR balanced inputs and outputs. Bands: 31 per channel.
Frequency Centers: 20 Hz, 25 Hz, 31.5 Hz, 40 Hz, 50 Hz, 63 Hz, 80 Hz, 100 Hz, 125 Hz, 160 Hz, 200 Hz, 250 Hz, 315 Hz, 400 Hz, 500 Hz, 630 Hz, 800 Hz, 1 kHz, 1.25 kHz, 1.5 kHz, 2 kHz, 2.5 kHz
Control Range: Selectable +/-12dB 0r +/-6dB. Input Impedance: 50k ohms. Output Impedance: 600 ohms. Maximum Output Level: +21dB Level Control: +/- 10 dB. Signal to Noise: >93 dB. Distortion: 0.005%.
Description
The Rockville REQ231 is an extremely high quality professional rack mountable equalizer. This is a 2 channel equalizer with 31 bands per channel. The main focus on this was sound quality and making it rugged and tough. We wanted to build a professional product that will instantly make a good speaker sound better, and after months of testing we know we did it! This graphic EQ also has a low cut crossover filter switch, with status LED, that helps remove rumble from mics. Another great feature is the bypass switch, with LED indicator, which is very convenient when doing sound checks. We added a sub output with frequency controls which is something that we see a need for. Many brands for some odd reason do not give you a sub output and sub controls. We made sure to include this important function. If you want the best sounding EQ on the market at a great price, then we highly recommend you try out our REQ231. If you are unsatisfied with the quality we will give you a 90 day money back guarantee including return shipping! Features: Rockville REQ231 Dual 31 Band 1/3 Octave Graphic Equalizer With Sub-Output Dual channel (31 bands per channel) Variable stage low and high cut filters 1/3 octave filter sets (ISO centers) 20 Hz to 20 kHz effective equalization range Constant Q filters Selectable 6dB or 12dB cut or boost range Output level LEDs (-10 to +17 dB) Bypass switch with status LED Balanced XLR input/output Subwoofer out Channels: 2 (stereo) Connectors: XLR balanced inputs and outputs Bands: 31 per channel7. EMB - Eqb75 - Dual 10 Band Stereo Equalizer With Spectrum Analyzer
Feature
Ten Bands of graphic EQ per ChannelMulti-colored spectrum analyzer display shows the output of the system
LEDs in all sliders, Two Line inputs and dual tape monitor loops
Tuner | CD | TAPE | DVD inputs!
Power supply MAX:20W
NOTE: Refer the User Manual before use which is highly essential.
Description
Dual 10 Band Stereo Equalizer with Spectrum Analyzer Display! All led sliders!8. Behringer Ultragraph Pro FBQ1502HD 15-band Stereo Graphic EQ
Feature
Price For: Each Product Range: - Plug Type: -Description
15-band Equalizer with FBQ Feedback Detection9. BEHRINGER FBQ3102HD
Feature
Professional 31-band stereo graphic equalizer for live and studio applicationsRevolutionary FBQ Feedback Detection system instantly reveals critical frequencies and can also be used as audio analyzer
Ultra-low noise 4580 operational amplifiers for highest signal integrity
Dedicated mono subwoofer output with adjustable crossover frequency
Additional sweepable high and low-cut filters for each channel remove unwanted frequencies, e.g. floor rumble, hiss etc.
Description
BEHRINGER ULTRAGRAPH PRO FBQ3102HD10. Rockville REQ20 19" Rack Mount Pro Dual 10 Band Graphic Equalizer EQ w/VU Meters
Feature
REQ20: Dual 10 Band Graphic Equalizer.Dual 10 Band Graphic Equalizer (20 Bands Total).
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20KHz. Dual VU Meters Level Monitor.
Blue LED on each Equalizer Slide Control. Stereo RCA Line Input.
Stereo RCA Line Output. Stereo RCA Line Output for Record.
Vacuum Fluorescent Display. Bass/Midrange/High EQ Controls.
Separate Left/Right Channel Volume gain control. Signal to Noise Ratio: >88dB.
Input Power: AC ~ 110V 60H/220V 50Hz. 110/220V Switchable.
Front Panel Power Switch. Removable Rack Mount Brackets.
Dimensions: 17"(19" w/brackets) x 9" x 2.2". Weight: 5 lbs.
Description
Features:REQ20: Dual 10 Band Graphic Equalizer
Dual 10 Band Graphic Equalizer (20 Bands Total)
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20KHz
Dual VU Meters Level Monitor
Blue LED on each Equalizer Slide Control
Stereo RCA Line Input
Stereo RCA Line Output
Stereo RCA Line Output for Record
Vacuum Fluorescent Display
Bass/Midrange/High EQ Controls
Separate Left/Right Channel Volume gain control
Signal to Noise Ratio: >88dB
Input Power: AC ~ 110V 60H/220V 50Hz
110/220V Switchable
Front Panel Power Switch
Removable Rack Mount Brackets
Dimensions: 17"(19" w/brackets) x 9" x 2.2"
Weight: 5 lbs