Graphic EQ or Parametric EQ?
If you're in the market for EQ pedals, you've likely come across the two main types: parametric EQ and graphic EQ. Each type has its own strengths when it comes to shaping your guitar tone, so the question arises: which one should you choose? The answer depends on your specific application.
Let's start by understanding what EQ is. EQ stands for equalization, a tool used in audio to shape the frequency balance of a sound, making it more pleasing or fitting better in a mix. EQ has a profound impact on guitar tone, as demonstrated by simple adjustments such as rolling off the tone knob or tweaking treble and bass controls on an amplifier.
Equalizers consist of multiple audio filters working together to shape the sound. High-pass and low-pass filters eliminate distracting frequencies at the extremes of the spectrum. Regular EQ bands have a specific frequency, bandwidth (Q), and level to boost or cut specific areas.
What distinguishes graphic EQ from parametric EQ?
Graphic EQ employs many narrow adjacent EQ bands to target specific frequencies, while parametric EQ allows users to adjust the width of each band for broader control.
Graphic EQ is commonly used to notch out specific frequencies that contribute to feedback in live sound reinforcement systems. Each band is represented by a slider that can be raised or lowered to boost or cut the corresponding frequency.
On the other hand, Parametric EQ finds widespread use in recording and mixing to alter the character of a sound or emphasize certain qualities. Instead of sliders, parametric EQ employs traditional rotary knobs and switches to control several parameters that shape the EQ band. The most common parameters include filter type (HPF, LPF, BPF, shelf, bell, notch), Q (bandwidth or 'quality factor'), frequency, and gain.
At first, some users may find graphic EQ easier to grasp, as adjusting multiple bands provides a visual representation of the overall curve, hence the name 'Graphic EQ.' However, once you become accustomed to it, parametric EQ offers much greater flexibility. Moreover, it provides specific advantages for guitar players.
When to use Parametric EQ
Parametric EQ allows access to a wider range of shapes and curves using fewer bands compared to graphic EQ. For instance, if you aim to boost the mids of a particular tone with a gradual roll-off on either side of the peak frequency, a parametric EQ with a wide Q setting can achieve a smooth roll-off in EQ frequencies. In contrast, a graphic EQ pedal attempting to achieve the same effect may exhibit noticeable peaks and troughs due to the overlapping edges of each band, making it challenging to target precise frequencies.
When to use a Graphic EQ
Despite the aforementioned advantages of parametric EQ, graphic EQ can still prove useful in eliminating unwanted frequencies that cause feedback, especially if you lack a good noise gate pedal. The narrow Q of each band makes graphic EQ highly effective for removing specific problematic frequencies. Some players employ a graphic EQ pedal in their amplifier's effects loop to tailor the preamp section to the power amp and speakers. This approach effectively reduces individual peaks, resulting in a smoother sound and better synergy between the guitar, amp, and speaker.
For most other situations, parametric EQ is the preferred choice. It excels at gentle tone shaping, corrective sculpting, and selective boosting while maintaining transparency. Here are a few guitar tone scenarios where parametric EQ shines:
1. Removing low-end buildup: Excessive bass can lead to muddiness, even if the amp isn't on the verge of overdrive. In some cases, the tone stack alone may not suffice to clear up the low end. Precise low-cut reduction with a medium to wide Q can easily resolve this issue, keeping the EQ smooth and the tone punchy.
2. Smoothing out harsh highs: Conversely, certain gear combinations can sound painfully shrill and trebly. This often stems from a peaky range of frequencies in the upper mids, where the human ear is most sensitive. A good parametric EQ allows you to identify and attenuate the offending range without affecting the rest of your sound.
3. Mid boost without adding overdrive: A strong midrange is crucial for guitars to cut through in live settings or recording mixes. Stone Deaf's range of PDF pedals are designed precisely for this purpose. When these pedals are used to push an amp into saturation, it's common to turn down their gain control completely counterclockwise to let the amp's own overdrive take over. Fortunately, Stone Deaf Effects pedals come equipped with a studio-quality and user-friendly parametric EQ control. This allows you to dial in the ideal mid-boost frequencies without any solid-state clipping from the drive pedal. Additionally, the Stone Deaf Effects Fig Fumb and Warp Drive pedals include a built-in studio-quality controllable noise gate, enabling precise tone shaping, ample gain, and control over unwanted noise and feedback—all within a single pedal.
In summary, the choice between graphic EQ and parametric EQ depends on your specific needs. Graphic EQ is effective for eliminating feedback and addressing specific frequencies, while parametric EQ offers greater flexibility and control for general tone shaping and corrective sculpting. Consider the unique advantages of each type and select the one that best suits your desired guitar tone and application.