EQ (Equalizer) – Parametric vs Graphic
A parametric EQ adjusts frequency, gain, and Q-factor (bandwidth) per band - very precise. A graphic EQ has fixed frequency bands with only gain sliders - easier but less flexible. Modern room correction uses parametric.
Parametric EQ lets you adjust three things per band: center frequency, boost/cut in dB, and Q-factor (how narrow or wide the band affects). Most flexible – can precisely correct a specific room mode or peaky driver.
Graphic EQ has fixed frequency bands (often 10 or 31 bands per channel) with only gain sliders. Easy to use, less precise.
Where you’ll find each
- Parametric: WiiM Ultra (10-band PEQ), FiiO EH11 (10-band PEQ saved on headphones), REW (Room EQ Wizard software), Apple Music EQ, Dirac Live
- Graphic: older receivers, some Bluetooth headphone apps
Tone controls
Simple bass/treble knobs (like on the AIYIMA A80) are a stripped-down 2-band graphic EQ. Useful for quick tweaks without diving into software.
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