Graphic equalizers allow you to boost or cut bands using a slider or knob. In my opinion, graphic equalizers are easier to use and operate, and that is what I recommend to newcomers to the hobby. This is important because as you shop for equalizers, you’ll often see the terms graphic and parametric thrown around, and choosing the right one for you means knowing the differences. In the following section, I’m going to explain each one and outline the differences between them. While there are a variety of equalizer operations that exist, the two primary ones used in aftermarket car audio are graphic equalizers and parametric equalizers. The Two Main Types of Equalizers in Car Audio As you can see, the effects of an equalizer should not be underestimated, as they impact almost every aspect of your sound system.

By doing so, you’ll also notice an increase in volume and detail. For example, removing some of the low bass frequencies from your door speakers can help them sound clearer and crisper since they aren’t overworking or overextending themselves. The same can be said for bass.Īn equalizer can also keep your gear in check by limiting their exposure to frequencies or levels that may cause harm. For example, if you love extremely bright treble, you’ll find yourself boosting the higher end frequencies. It can also emphasize the frequencies that you prefer to have exaggerated. These environmental challenges make the equalizer a critical aspect of any good or great sound system.Īn equalizer can essentially change the signature of the sound to overcome the challenges listed above. Cars come in all different shapes and sizes, absorb tire and road noises, and have various interior aspects like glass, leather, and cloth, all of which affect the sound system. Car audio faces challenges that aren’t found in home audio or headphones. Good equalizers offer greater and more precise control over frequency and tone. In today’s article, I’m going to cover both digital equalizers and physical equalizers, as they both have a place in modern car audio systems. Alternatively, an equalizer can be a standalone product that is installed in your audio chain, like an amplifier or digital signal processor. For example, a car stereo can have a digital equalizer built in. An equalizer can mean both hardware and software. Now that we know what an equalizer fundamentally does, I’m going to explain how an equalizer is sold, as it can be a little confusing. Essentially, an equalizer alters the frequency response of an audio system by manipulating the characteristics of the audio spectrum. While these three modes of operation are better than nothing, they can be very limiting and may not be enough for you to get the exact sound you are looking for. When you go to adjust your newly installed sound system, you may be presented with major limitations when all you have are bass, midrange, and treble options.

What is an Equalizer?Īn equalizer (EQ for short) allows you to adjust the sound of your car’s audio system by giving you access to tone adjustments beyond the typical bass, midrange, and treble switches. Equalizer settings will vary based on listener preferences, speaker selection, and the different genres of music. This should better help you understand the importance of an equalizer and its impact on your sound system. I will define what an equalizer is, how it works, where to access the equalizer, and recommend equalizer settings. In today’s article, I am going to cover the category of equalization. When properly configured, your sound system will perform at its best with the proper equalizer settings. Getting the sound you want that is tailored to your preferences requires the use of crossovers and, more importantly, an equalizer. After all, the audio listening experience in my car is extremely important, and as such, I want it to sound as close as possible to how the artist intended it to be.Ī car audio system consists of a head unit, speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers, sound deadening, and so on, but the physical hardware isn’t the end of it. Reading about the latest and greatest hardware and technologies, the different brands and model numbers, and the newest installation trends has me feeling like I’m in a different world.

Best equalizer for car audio