ALESIS PEQ-450 - Manual (Page 32)

basics of equalization • chapter 3
32 PEQ-450 Reference Manual
Equalization Artifiacts
When you apply a lot of EQ (6dB or more), you may hear some
consequences on the output. Here are a few common side effects to
applying a lot of equalization and some ways to avoid them.
Distortion
If you boost the low frequencies enough, you will distort the output.
You can verify this by watching the output meter peak into the red
CLIP range. To avoid this, trim down the OUTPUT knob. Better yet, try
cutting the highs instead of boosting the low frequencies.
Noise
If you boost the high frequencies enough you may hear noise in your
system that was otherwise not audible. If this is objectionable, you
may want to gate that channel when it isn’t being used or automate
the console so that channel is muted when that instrument isn’t
playing.
Phasing
If you apply a lot of EQ, more than 12dB on several bands, you may
hear some phase distortion. This is just the nature of EQ –the more
you cut or boost, the more phase distortion will occur. Try getting
the same effect with less EQ, try cutting instead of boosting, or try
moving the microphone to achieve the effect you’re looking for.
Tip: When possible, always try cutting before boosting. Instruments
usually sound better when you cut the problem frequencies
instead of boosting the frequencies you want to feature.