Best Equalizers & Feedback Controllers in 2022

Last update: December 21, 2022

Are equalizers still used?

Equalizers are still used today in many different audio applications. They are used to adjust the frequency response of an audio system to compensate for the acoustics of the room, to adjust the sound of a particular instrument, or to shape the overall sound of a mix. Equalizers can also be used to create special effects, such as making a guitar sound like a sitar.

Do equalizers damage speakers?

Equalizers are devices used to adjust the sound of an audio system. They can be used to boost or decrease certain frequencies, depending on the user's preference. While equalizers can be used to improve the sound quality of an audio system, they can also damage speakers if used incorrectly. If the equalizer is set to boost certain frequencies too much, it can cause the speakers to distort the sound. This can damage the speakers and make the audio system sound worse overall. It is important to use equalizers carefully and not to overuse them.

Does a EQ improve sound quality?

A EQ can improve sound quality by making it easier to hear the different frequencies in a recording. By boosting or attenuating certain frequencies, a EQ can make a recording sound better balanced and more natural.

Does an equalizer make a difference?

An equalizer is a device that helps to adjust the sound quality of an audio system. It can be used to boost or reduce the level of certain frequencies, which can make a big difference in the overall sound quality. Equalizers are often used by audio engineers to fine-tune the sound of a recording, but they can also be used by music lovers to improve the sound of their home stereo system.


Schiit Loki Tone Control Equalizer Review:


The Loki has been a wonderful addition to my audio chain since it was released years ago, and I've owned it since then (headphones primarily). It is compact, sturdy, and doesn't appear to weaken the audio transmission. They selected four useful frequency response areas that are both broad and deep. More sub-bass please. Leftmost knob. Second from the leftmost is lower mids. Second from the rightmost, upper mid/low treble. Far right: treble. Easy as pie.One more thing about signal loss. Once more, I saw none. I played well-known songs first without adding Loki to the system chain, then I did it with all the dials set to zero (meaning straight up, no EQ being applied). The master switch was then in the off position as I continued to listen (meaning no EQ applied regardless of knob position). I never heard any difference in sound quality anywhere. I have good gear, including lossless audio files, a Codex dac, a Lake People RS-08 amp, and the major headphones HD800, HD650, ZMF Atticus, Beyerdynamic T70, among others that I no longer own. No audible difference Given the effort and money invested putting together a decent audio chain, I find it to be astounding and really significant.The way the knobs click into the zero point position (i.e., no EQ applied, straight up) and the on/off master switch on the front of the unit are two aspects of the Loki's functioning that I truly appreciate. That switch is one of my favorites because it makes it simple and quick for me to examine my EQ settings. I switch it on, mess about with the knobs, and then switch the EQ on and off to hear the differences. And let me tell you, occasionally you forget how your music sounded before EQ! When I turned the EQ on and off, I was frequently surprised by how much I altered the sound. This is a good feature.Last but not least, the modifications themselves are really helpful. However, a word of caution—not all headphones respond to EQ identically. Some people don't have any issues with it and barely notice any loss in sound quality. Some people seem to loathe it and have trouble handling it. I generally found that planar magnetic setups produced the best results. Every driver I've tried accepted even heavy-handed modifications pretty well, with little additional distortion, so it must be a physical flaw with the driver. According to my observations, traditional dynamic headphones perform the poorest. Tesla driver models with beyerdynamics are in the center. They don't withstand harsh EQ as well as planars before beginning to distort, but they do so with less resistance than a device like the HD650. I'll mention some headphones below along with my personal experiences:The Good (strong EQ-responsive headphones with minimal to no additional distortion):I've owned everything of MrSpeakers' Mad Dog, Alpha, Aeon, and Ether series save for the Ether 2.HD800 T70, T90, DT 1770, DT 1990, T1 Gen2, T5p Gen2, Hifiman HE400i, HE560 (owners beware; hifiman is infamous for poor quality control; in local headphone meets I've talked to owners of these sets that adding EQ on the bass shattered their drivers. While neither of the settings listed here died immediately while listening without any EQ on, I did not personally experience this. Since both of these sets have a long history of driver failures, I personally blame inadequate quality control for my failures.)The Bad (headphones that distorted noticeably and negatively, no matter how much EQ was applied):HD650 permits LIGHT treble and upper mids tweaks, but absolutely hates adding bass since it sounds boomy and sloppy.M50x disliked any modifications.No modifications were liked by B



Behringer MiniFBQ FBQ800 Ultra-Compact 9-Band Graphic Equalizer with FBQ Review:


I only needed something to replace the software EQs on my computer; I didn't need lab-type equipment, and this is about right. I detest having to repeatedly click on my PC to adjust the EQ's settings. Now that the click-click is gone, I can make any small adjustments to my EQ settings as I see fit. Of course, this EQ has some restrictions because of the cost, but they are insignificant in light of what you get in exchange. I'm pleased and I enjoy it!I only wish it had a black front instead of a silver one!8/1/14 Update: It's been almost 6 months, and I still think it's great. The red LEDs in the sliders are all intermittent (i.e., they go off/on or bright/dim) everytime I touch them, yet everything else is operating well. Since the sound quality is unaffected, I simply hit the FBQ button to turn the LEDs off completely so that I can ignore them. Overall, I continue to believe that it is a "Good for the Money" unit.2/10/15 Update: I've been doing this for about a year, virtually every day with the exception of a few days, and it's still quite effective. I did experience some minor popping or cracking when moving some of the sliders, but after spraying a little Deoxit on each one, they are now in good working order (by the way, this also resolved the issue with the intermittent leds in the sliders). I like it and remain content.6/30/19 Update: It has been operating successfully and without issues for more than five years. I'm still happy, but I still long for a black unit, and if they ever did, I'd be first on the list. By the way, I'm giving it a perfect score of 5 now.



dbx 231s Dual Channel 31-Band Equalizer Review:


This fantastic EQ is considerably more valuable than what it costs. The system includes the following components: NHT 3.3 speakers, a Levinson #31 amp, a Levinson #39 transport/pre-amp, and Transparent Reference XL cabling everywhere. This setup has excellent imaging, and the current acoustic environment is the finest thus far. Even so, it has furnishings, rugs, and display cabinets typical of a suburban home. There were several peaks and dips that were rather substantial in the 60Hz band when tested using Stereophile CD 1. With just a small head turn, the soundstage would appear to change significantly to the ear. I've used the stereo in its new location long enough to thoroughly understand its image properties for a number of favorites.Between the pre-amp and amp is the dbx 215s. Every relationship is in balance. The EQ was flattened before to turning it on so I could contrast the soundstage before and after. It's amazing what I'm hearing. Think about how audio image is produced by waveforms with meticulous end-to-end phase preservation. Any signal processing, in order to work its magic, must by necessity delay the signal. At least as far as I could tell by ear or by looking at the screen, the 215s maintains wave phase in perfect alignment at all frequencies. The imagery was the same whether the EQ was turned on or off. This obviously uses advanced software on a quick DSP.Returning to Stereophile CD 1, I concur with the following assessment: The number of bands required to tune to an acoustic environment is 15 bands. Everywhere that has been tested, the pass-band transitions are flawlessly clean and phase-pure. After two hours of adjusting, I am confident that it can still be made even better. Heck, while I type this at my office, 30Hz frequencies can be heard there just as well as in the sound room. Everyone, I assume, experiences uneven reflections in the sound room. With the help of Stereophile #1 and some left/right adjustment, this was successfully handled. The reflecting component of each side can be heard as the test tones pan left and right. You can hear the shifts in the 215s as you tune out the reflections. In a short amount of time, the system has developed a beautiful, audible, smooth sound that draws me out of my office to hear a song I'm familiar with in a fresh way.This astonishing small EQ, which was unheard of five years ago, unexpectedly raised the performance of the stereo, which is top-tier audio equipment, to an even higher level. Thank you, dbx.



dbx DriveRack VENU360 Complete Loudspeaker Management System, 1 (DriveRack VENU360) Review:


An outdated DriveRack480 was swapped out for the VENU 360. The 360 also has much faster processing, a better menu system, and a significantly enhanced GUI, even though it doesn't have all the same ins and outs as the older device. Paying's worth it for the mobile device UI. And a key deciding factor in the purchase was the price differential between the two.



Rockville REQ231 Dual 31 Band 1/3 Octave Graphic Equalizer With Sub-Output, grey Review:


For my home studio, a 31 band stereo EQ was required. This is top-notch and cost-effective. Please be aware that it uses 1/4 TRS connections and is built to professional audio specifications. However, home theater enthusiasts shouldn't be discouraged, as employing RCA to 1/4 will typically work great "adapters. If you are a musician or studio type, continue reading.I bought TRS patch cables that were long enough for my setup, but I hooked it up using standard 1/4" cables in the interim "guitar-like cords It's completely silent. Metering INPUT or OUTPUT is useful, and unity gain (setting INPUT to 0) is ideal. Without a doubt, bypass is necessary for an A-B comparison, and the meters are accurate. For instance, the Zoom R24 will display a healthy input level if I set the EQ unit's INPUT to 0dB (no yellow clip lights on EQ), but it won't clip the R24's definite red clip light. Although I just leave mine on 12 dB, the sliders are silent and the range may be changed from 6 dB to 12 dB.According to my understanding, to eliminate such filters from the audio chain, the unit's LOW CUT should be turned hard left, and the HIGH cut should be turned hard right. As I listen through full-range studio monitors, I did not fiddle with the subwoofer output, but if one is required, the low cut filter on the front and the crossover (XOVER) knob on the back of the EQ should make setup really simple.I only wish there was a way to combine/convert stereo input to mono and control both with a single set of EQ sliders, but there is a simple workaround and the loss of this function is not a deal breaker.Safe travels!



Rockville REQ215 Dual 15 Band 1/3 Octave Graphic Equalizer+Peavey XLR Cable Review:


I adjust the stage monitors for my acoustic duo using the Rockville REQ215 equalizer. Good pricing for EQ that is decent. Although sub frequencies aren't as powerful as I would have imagined, the sound quality is acceptable. Everything fits my application just fine. The power cord might easily come out of the socket if the device is moved while it is in use. I was pleasantly surprised to receive a free Peavey mic cable from the vendor Audio Savings along with my order. My order was shipped right away. This merchant comes highly recommended.



dbx AFS2 Advanced Feedback Suppression Processor with Full LCD Display Review:


This is really effective. I still have a lot to learn about running sound as I'm new to it. I provide sound for a number of acoustic bands who use microphones to record their instruments, including acoustic guitars. In front of a number of floor monitors, there are numerous microphones. I usually use this for stage monitors. So far, I've been able to make the monitors' sound louder than is necessary. With the wizard, using it is quite simple.Before I acquired the AFS2, I would experience significant anxiety while traveling to various locations and working with various bands, fearing a feedback nightmare while setting up in establishments where patrons are mingling and enjoying supper. My anxiety has subsided thanks to this unit. Additionally, it seems to have less of an impact on the sound than a 31 band graphic equalizer because it employs 1/8 octave notches to remove fewer frequencies. It was well worth the cost. My bandmates are raving about our monitor mix, especially after we played a festival or event where the sound was handled by someone else and we had feedback issues. Even though I'm not a seasoned sound man, the AFS2 makes me appear to be one. This gives me more time to adjust the sound's EQ for optimal volume and tone. I would strongly advise it. I use a Behringer Xair 18 with it. I connect it between the mixer and powered speakers because there are no inserts. You need to run enough gain into it for it to function properly. In my scenario, the unit's gain adjustment is really useful.



Behringer Shark FBQ100 Automatic Feedback Destroyer with Integrated Microphone Preamp, Delay Line, Noise Gate and Compressor Review:


What a useful tool! The device works perfectly, but the documentation is challenging—possibly even bad! My main application was as a delay for far-off speakers powered by wireless links. The audio was perfectly in time with the distant sounds as a result. The inadequate documentation, which is readily fixable, is the reason I only gave it four instead of five stars. As an illustration, it instructs you to tap the button next to the up or down button in order to quickly modify the delay value. That actually means that you should hold the up button while repeatedly tapping the down button if you want to get up quickly. The amount of change increases as you tap the opposing button more frequently. Holding down while tapping up will cause you to move down quickly until you reach the desired speed. Filters for automatic feedback are still another drawback. Sometimes they appear to activate themselves despite your wishes. The audio quality isn't significantly affected, though, and if you're close to it, you may reset filters after they've been activated.



BEHRINGER (FBQ1502HD) Review:


fantastic stuff enables speaker adjustment for the listening environment. It can elevate the sound of ordinary speakers. Each set of speakers has its unique strengths and limitations, thus I use a different EQ for each set. made well. I have a number of Behringer items, and they are all effective. Additionally, I can suggest their Sonic Exciter. It gives digital recordings a more vintage, vinyl- and tube-era analogue sound. brings guitar, vocals, and piano centre stage and adds depth. Very cool gadget.



Radial Engineering HotShot ABI Line Input Selector Review:


When switching between two microphones feeding a single signal chain, this device is perfect. You may mix and match mics with different output levels or sources with varied volumes thanks to one of the devices' abilities to modify pad, trim, and even lift the ground. I use it to alternate between a percussion mic and a didgeridoo mic.One very crucial point! This sturdy box, like all Radial equipment, is made to have as little of an impact as possible on the quality of your signal. The outcome is a very clean signal path with no crosstalk between the two inputs in the device. This indicates that phantom-powered transmissions are not compatible with it. The HotShot ABi is perfect for tasks like switching between two dynamic microphones on a stage or choosing between two audio sources, according to the product description. The word "Dynamic Microphones" is crucial here. Users reporting loud pops are probably switching between one or more devices receiving phantom power, which will cause a signal spike just like any microphone whose power is suddenly turned on or off. Do not use this with any phantom powered equipment; it is only intended for dynamic or passive signal routes.This product does exactly what it is intended to accomplish and does it quite well thanks to a sturdy construction, clear signal channel, and several useful enhancements. That is my only issue with the unit; aside from that, I give it a 5-star rating. I understand that it is not possible to add a status LED to indicate which side is "active" without phantom power or other signal-altering circuitry.


Does EQ reduce sound quality?

No, EQ does not reduce sound quality. In fact, it can actually improve sound quality by allowing you to tailor the sound to your specific preferences.

How do you use an equalizer effectively?

An equalizer is a tool used to improve the sound quality of audio recordings by adjusting the frequency response. When used effectively, an equalizer can help to make a recording sound more natural and balanced. There are a few things to keep in mind when using an equalizer. First, it is important to start with a flat frequency response. This means that all frequencies should be equally represented. From there, you can make adjustments as needed. It is also important to be aware of the frequencies that you are adjusting. For example, boosting the low frequencies can make a recording

How do you use an equalizer for beginners?

An equalizer is a tool used to adjust the balance of frequencies in an audio signal. When used properly, an equalizer can help to improve the overall sound quality of your audio. If you are a beginner, there are a few things you should know before using an equalizer. First, you need to identify what frequencies you want to adjust. This can be done by using a frequency response curve. Once you have identified the frequencies you want to adjust, you can use the equalizer to boost or cut those frequencies. It is important to start with small adjustments

Is Analog EQ better than digital?

There are many opinions out there about whether analog EQ is better than digital. Some say that analog EQ is more musical and can add warmth to a track, while others say that digital EQ is more precise and can give you more control over your sound. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you are trying to achieve with your sound. If you are looking for a more vintage sound, then analog EQ may be the way to go. If you need more control and precision, then digital EQ may be the better option.

Is it worth using an equalizer?

An equalizer is a tool used to adjust the sound levels of audio recordings. Equalizers can be used to fix audio recordings that sound too quiet or too loud, or to adjust the levels of specific frequencies. Equalizers can be very helpful in making audio recordings sound better. However, they can also be overused, which can lead to audio recordings that sound unnatural. When using an equalizer, it is important to make small adjustments and to listen to the recording afterwards to make sure that the changes sound good.

What are equalizers used for?

An equalizer is a tool used to adjust the balance of frequencies in an audio signal. Equalizers are used to compensate for sound system deficiencies, to enhance the sound of certain instruments, or to produce unique sound effects.