How to Balance a Graphic Equalizer

Graphic equalizers let you boost or attenuate (lower) specific sound frequency ranges in the output of your stereo system. By using a graphic equalizer, you can adjust the sound of your stereo to compensate for any acoustic irregularities in your room or other listening space. The best way to balance your graphic equalizer so that your system has a precise, accurate sound is to use a graphic equalizer setup and calibration disc in conjunction with a decibel meter.

Things You'll Need

• Calibration disc (see Additional Resources)
• Decibel meter

Instructions

1. Place your calibration disc into the compact disc player of your system.

2. Put your decibel meter in the primary listening position of your room. For example, in your living room, put the meter in or near your favorite chair. In a larger space, like an auditorium or church sanctuary, choose a spot in the middle of the room.

3. Start the CD and follow the prompts to adjust your equalizer. The CD will play a series of test tones and frequency sweeps that allow you to set the equalizer to achieve a balanced, flat sound in the room, so that music played sounds clean and lifelike without excessively attenuated or boosted frequencies.

References

• Home Theater Hacks: 100 Industrial-Strength Tips & Tools; Brett McLaughlin; 2004

Resources

• Calibration disc
• Decibel meter