15
Using the EQ Controls
– Before you begin to twiddle knobs, let’s talk
about a few things. Excessive boosting of one or more EQ frequencies may
cause an overload in the EQ section. If this happens, the Clip light will
engage. This is a
Very Bad Thing
and needs to be corrected immediately.
If EQ clipping occurs, you can either decrease the boost or decrease the
Input Gain. Remember, too, that our EQ controls are active, and are meant to
turn both ways – not just UP! This means that you can enhance a certain
frequency spectrum either by boosting that frequency or by cutting the
adjacent frequencies. This latter method has the advantage of maximizing
potential headroom.
If possible, step well forward of your rig to get a better idea of how you will
sound in the room. You may be surprised at how different you sound once
you step away from the speakers.
NOTE
: Many players rely on the Enhance Control (and perhaps a little
Midrange Massage) to get their sound. This method leaves the Bass and
Treble controls available to dial in to a particularly difficult room. Just
something to keep in mind, ok?
Setting Bass and Treble
– OK, now it’s time to set the EQ, beginning with
the Bass and Treble controls. These controls cover a fairly broad frequency
spectrum and a little goes a long way. Adjust these controls up or down as
needed. We suggest playing a few notes in various areas of the neck so you
can hear what your adjustments have done across the fretboard.
Setting the Midrange
– Adjusting the Midrange controls will bring you
either more up-front in the mix or more in the background. As mentioned
earlier, channel one features two Midrange controls centered on 550Hz and
2.2KHz. The low position (550Hz) is good for general playing and
recording. It’s also good for dialing in a good Fretless Bass tone. The high
position (2.2KHz) is good for getting a more aggressive Rock tone.
Channel Two features a single Midrange control, but allows the user to set
the center frequency. This is especially useful for Acoustic/Electric Bass
Guitars and Upright Basses, which may have a resonant peak that cause
unwanted feedback. By finding the resonant frequency and cutting the
Midrange, you can eliminate this pesky problem.
