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Audio equalization

What is audio equalization? A clear definition from the audio effects, audio engineering and musical acoustics section of our glossary, with 14 related terms, tools to try and further reading.

Definition of Audio equalization

Equalization, or simply EQ, in sound recording and reproduction is the process of adjusting the volume of different frequency bands within an audio signal. The circuit or equipment used to achieve this is called an equalizer.

Most hi-fi equipment uses relatively simple filters to make bass and treble adjustments. Graphic and parametric equalizers have much more flexibility in tailoring the frequency content of an audio signal. Broadcast and recording studios use sophisticated equalizers capable of much more detailed adjustments, such as eliminating unwanted sounds or making certain instruments or voices more prominent. Because of this ability, they can be aptly described as "frequency-specific volume knobs."

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What is Audio equalization?

Equalization, or simply EQ, in sound recording and reproduction is the process of adjusting the volume of different frequency bands within an audio signal. The circuit or equipment used to achieve this is called an equalizer.

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