This is the first in a series of 5 questions I had when just learning about AV systems. They specifically deal with sound because that was the first systems I learned how to work on. I will throw in some lighting and video on the next series.

1. What is a parametric equalizer? What is it’s purpose?

A Parametric Equalizer (PE for short today) is a equalizer that has banks of frequencies that it can it can change. Each bank has a range of frequencies. Each bank can choose a frequency and alter it by either boosting or cutting. Depending on how advanced the unit is, it may be more precise and only affect the selected frequencies and a few around it or may affect a broad set of frequencies. So let’s go over some terms you may run into on these units

Low Shelf: Affects the chosen frequencies and all the frequencies before it.

High Shelf: Affects the chosen frequencies and all the frequencies after it.

Frequency knob: Has a range of frequencies you can choose from for each boost/cut knob.

Boost/Cut knob: The know that affect how much you turn up or turn down frequency selections. This is normally labeled from -15 to + 15.

Nominal/Flat: This is the point of the PE that does not affect the signal at all. This is generally the boost/cut knob set at 12:00. The frequency selector knob now can be in any position and not affect the sound.

How is it used?
Sometimes techs prefer to use outboard gear that gives them the sound they want but most of the time the PE on your console will work fine to help bring out of the mix or accent instruments and voices.

What is it’s purpose?
To make it sound good. That this the only purpose in the equipment.

Tip on learning: Play with the equipment. Make changes see how it does and then change something else. You can do this during an event but don’t be too drastic where it draws attention to it.

Comments and Questions: Send me your questions; or even throw in your thoughts about equipment.  Use the comment box below or click the call out icon to the right of the title.  Looking forward to hearing from you!

ryan@brackmanconsulting.com