Graphic equalizers and high-end stereo

Paul McGowan, PS Audio
22 Jun 202005:49

Summary

TLDRIn this discussion, Paul addresses the use of graphic equalizers in high-end audio systems. He advocates for minimal intervention, suggesting EQs should be used sparingly to enhance poor recordings. He recounts Mark Levinson's high-end graphic EQ, the Audio Palette, and its limitations. Paul emphasizes that in high-end systems, EQ should be reserved for fixing recordings, not altering system performance. He mentions his product 'Sprout' as an exception for entry-level systems, where a built-in EQ boosts bass. He concludes with a vision for smart, track-specific digital EQs that could enhance listening experiences without adding hardware.

Takeaways

  • 🎚️ The debate on graphic equalizers in high-end audio systems often leans towards minimal use to maintain purity of sound.
  • 👍 Equalizers can be used sparingly to enhance poor recordings, understanding there will be some sonic degradation.
  • 🚫 The speaker does not recommend using EQ to alter the system's sound, advocating for correct system setup from the start.
  • 🔧 If bass is lacking, the speaker suggests improving speakers or adding a subwoofer instead of overusing EQ.
  • 🎵 For lower-cost systems, a built-in EQ like in 'sprout' can be acceptable to boost bass due to the cost of additional equipment.
  • 📈 High-quality EQ units can potentially enhance a system depending on the listening environment's specific needs.
  • 🎧 The speaker recalls Mark Levinson's high-end graphic equalizer, the 'audio palette', which was designed to alter music colorations.
  • 💡 There's a suggestion of a future digital EQ that could be programmed to remember settings for specific tracks on a CD.
  • 🔄 The idea of a digital EQ in a digital audio chain is presented as a potential solution without adding extra hardware.
  • 📀 The concept of EQ that 'remembers' settings for each track on a CD for enhanced listening experience is discussed.

Q & A

  • What is the general opinion on using graphic equalizers in a hi-fi system?

    -The general opinion leans towards keeping equalizers out of the system for purity, as they can alter the characteristics of the equipment or music being listened to.

  • What is the speaker's personal stance on using equalizers?

    -The speaker believes in using equalizers sparingly, mainly to help poor recordings, and not for system enhancement.

  • What is the purpose of using an equalizer according to the speaker?

    -The speaker suggests using an equalizer to improve older or poor recordings, acknowledging there might be some sonic degradation.

  • Who designed the high-end graphic equalizer called the 'Audio Palette' mentioned in the script?

    -Dick Berwyn designed the 'Audio Palette', a high-end graphic equalizer.

  • What is the 'old school' approach to audio systems according to the speaker?

    -The 'old school' approach is to get the system right in the first place, fixing issues like bass response with new speakers or a subwoofer rather than using EQ.

  • Why does the speaker not recommend EQ for the system itself?

    -The speaker does not recommend EQ for the system itself because it can lead to sonic degradation and believes in addressing issues like bass response through equipment upgrades.

  • What is 'Sprout' and why does it have an EQ built-in?

    -'Sprout' is a product designed by the speaker's son, Scott, and it has an EQ built-in to boost bass for lower-cost systems that may lack it and where adding a subwoofer may not be financially sensible.

  • What is the speaker's view on digital EQ for high-end audio?

    -The speaker has a long-standing interest in a digital equalizer for high-end audio, as it doesn't add extra hardware to the chain and can be adjusted without physical degradation.

  • What is the speaker's 'big brilliant idea' for EQ in high-end audio?

    -The speaker's idea is to have a digital EQ that remembers settings for specific tracks on a CD, so that the EQ is automatically adjusted for optimal sound each time the track is played.

  • What is the speaker's final advice on the use of EQ in high-end audio systems?

    -The speaker advises that the only real place for EQ in high-end audio is for fixing recordings themselves, not for system enhancement.

Outlines

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الوسوم ذات الصلة
Audio SystemsGraphic EqualizersHi-Fi PhilosophyMusic ProductionSound QualityDigital EQAudio EnhancementVinyl SystemsMark LevinsonAudio Technology
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