Alto Professional AEQ231 - Manual (Page 5)

5
THE FREQUENCY SPECTRUM
Graphic EQs are used in recording studios, live performances, and radio and TV broadcasts. They are
commonly used to fine-tune the sound of an individual instrument or smooth an entire mix. When considering
how different instruments and voices fit into the audio spectrum, it is helpful to refer to their known frequency
ranges. Understanding an instrument’s frequency range will be extremely helpful when balancing spectral
inconsistencies within the mix. Refer to the table below to get an idea of an instrument’s frequency range and
acoustic significance.
Typical Frequency of Each Instrument and Voice
Human hearing range
Vocal
Soprano
Contralto
Baritone
Bass
Woodwind
Piccolo
Flute
Oboe
Clarinet in B flat or A
Clarinet in E flat
Bass Clarinet
Basset Horn
Cor Anglais
Bassoon
Double Bassoon
Brass
Soprano Saxophone
Alto Saxophone
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone
Bass Saxophone
Trumpet in C
Trumpet in F
Alto Trombone
Tenor Trombone
Bass Trombone
Tuba
Valve Horn
Strings
Violin
Viola
Cello
Double Bass
Guitar
Keyboards
Pianoforte
Organ
Percussion
Celesta
Timpani
Xylophone
FREQUENCY
25 50 100 200 400 800 1.6K 3.1K 6.2K 13K
Middle C