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EQ Basics - Band, Frequency, Gain & QUpdated 5 hours ago



Guide to Using EQ Band Types in BEACN Studio


BEACN Studio provides a range of EQ options to customize your audio when using an XLR microphone. This guide explains the six band types available, along with how to adjust their frequency, gain, and Q settings to refine your sound.

Accessing the EQ Settings
Open the Mic Chain Window
  • Navigate to the mic chain window via the device panel in BEACN Studio.
  • Click the corresponding icon to access the EQ settings.
Locate the Band Controls
  • The lower section of the mic chain window contains controls for six band types, along with frequency, gain, and Q settings for each band.
Band Types Overview

1. Bell Band

Purpose:
  • Boosts or attenuates a specific range of frequencies.
Adjustment:
  • Set the frequency point (e.g., 150 Hz for bass boost).
  • Adjust gain to boost or cut the frequency.
Use Q to control the bandwidth:
  • Higher Q = Narrower band (more precise).
  • Lower Q = Wider band (more natural).

2. Low Shelf

Purpose:
  • Boosts lower frequencies from a specific point.
Adjustment:
  • Set the frequency where the slope starts (e.g., 150 Hz).
  • Use Q to adjust the slope and boost.

3. Low Pass Filter

Purpose:
  • Cuts off frequencies above a certain point.
Adjustment:
  • Set the cutoff frequency (e.g., 8,000 Hz to remove high-end frequencies).
  • Adjust Q for a harsher or smoother cutoff.

4. Notch Filter

Purpose:
  • Eliminates specific unwanted frequencies.
Adjustment:
  • Set the offending frequency (e.g., boxy resonance range).
  • Use a high Q for precise isolation.

Important Note

Avoid overuse to prevent overprocessed audio.

5. High Shelf

Purpose:
  • Boosts higher frequencies from a specific point.
Adjustment:
  • Set the starting frequency (e.g., 3,000 Hz).
  • Adjust Q to control the slope’s aggressiveness.

6. High Pass Filter

Purpose:
  • Cuts low-end frequencies, removing sub-bass or rumble.
Adjustment:
  • Set the cutoff frequency (e.g., 50 Hz).
  • Adjust Q for a smoother or sharper transition.
Understanding Frequency, Gain, and Q
Frequency
  • Adjusts the horizontal axis (left and right) to target specific points on the audio spectrum.
Gain:
  • Controls the vertical axis (up and down), boosting or cutting the selected frequency.
  • Positive gain increases the frequency’s presence; negative gain reduces it.
Q:
  • Determines the width of the frequency band.
  • Higher Q = Narrower band for precise adjustments.
  • Lower Q = Wider band for natural blending.
Best Practices
  • Start with Bell Bands: These are versatile and suitable for most EQ adjustments.
  • Experiment with Band Types: Different bands serve different purposes—test each to see what works for your voice.
  • Avoid Overprocessing: Keep EQ adjustments subtle to maintain a natural sound.
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