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   Active equalization is not as easily found as it was a few years ago. Much of the reason is because of the advent of multichannel sound. When 6 or more channels of equalization is provided, it is naturally more expensive than simple 2 channel controls.

This is not to say that there is nothing available. Active equalization has become more the tool of the studio, and less that of the user. As discussed before, everyone needs some EQ (the nickname used, so I will use it from here on), as not one of us lives in an anechoic chamber.

 As I started my journey of discovery, I found an old, friendly name at the low end of the spectrum of price. AudioSource is a well known name, and a company that has a solid reputation for building competent, quality merchandise. The EQ 200, pictured below, is a solid choice that will not bankrupt the household, yet gives good performance, and more importantly, a good signal to noise ratio (SNR). The SNR tells you how quiet the electronics of the component are, and how much extraneous noise the component will add to the overall sound. Remember, the overall dynamic range depends on the noise floor. The lower the noise floor, the greater dynamic range can be experienced in your room. (This is partly why we treat the room for noise. It keeps you from disturbing others, but the converse is also true.)

AudioSource EQ 200  -  around $110

Specifications
Inputs: Audio, Video, Tape 1, Tape 2
Outputs: Main, Tape 1, Tape 2
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 50kHz
Signal to Noise Ratio: -95dB
Weight: 10lbs (4.6 kg)
Dimensions: 3 1/2 x 16 1/2 x 8″D (89 x 422 x 204mm)

features
Spectrum Analyzer Display
1 Octave Control Points from 30Hz - 16kHz
Dual Tape Monitor Loop
Red LED’s in All 20

The next choice in our selection is the one-third octave equalizer that was covered, giving much tighter control over the room and speaker responses, and with careful use, the ability to come closer to the ideal environment in our less than ideal rooms.

 Behringer Ultragraph FBQ6200 31-Band Stereo Graphic Equalizer   -    around  $180

If you like, or can live with, the professional looking exterior, the Behringer Ultragraph is a good unit at an amazing price. Usually one-third octave EQs are much more expensive. This unit does not have the highest SNR, but all other specifications are good. I would advise an audition before purchase. You’ll probably find it very good, but if you listen to extremely dynamic source material (disaster movies come to mind!) you might choose something else.

Yamaha Q2031B Dual-Channel Graphic Equalizer    -   around $600

 The Yamaha EQ above is at the top of the list when it comes to excellent specifications, including signal to noise ratio. It is expensive, but provides great control.

As with all other purchases, auditioning is always a good idea, and checking into used, well maintained equipment is an excellent way to get some great stuff for not so much money. The name Soundcraftsmen is a name that is no longer around, but for many years the company made the very best equalization equipment for the audiophile. The products always had a professional look, most pieces being rack mount size, and used tuned coils to achieve the equalization. This is still the preferred method, and gives excellent results with low noise. The company is no longer in business, so be sure that the unit works before purchase, but since there is really nothing to wear out, once the unit has been checked, all that is left is haggling on price. These are worth looking for!

Using an equalizer with software to achieve flat response in your room will be a revelation to many. You may also find you don’t like it. The thing about that is that you have heard what the recording engineers envisioned when mixing the sound. Also, remember that most of the sound, no matter the source, is coming from the front speakers, left and right, so equalization for those is most important. The other channels of reproduction are much less worrisome, and make much less difference to the overall experience.

After that, you’re on your own.