Graphic equalizers and high-end stereo

Summary

In 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.