Discovering equalizer pedals

Equalizer pedals, or EQ pedals for short, are essential tools in the arsenal of any guitarist or bassist keen to sculpt their sound with precision. Whether you’re looking to refine the nuances of your timbre, eliminate unwanted frequencies or add a touch of brilliance to your playing, EQ pedals offer an infinite range of possibilities.

In this article, we’ll explore this type of pedal in depth, covering their definition, history, different types of equalization, iconic models and different techniques of use.

What is an EQ pedal?

An equalizer pedal adjusts the audio frequency spectrum of a sound signal. In other words, it boosts or cuts specific frequencies, offering precise control over the overall timbre of an instrument. EQ pedals are often used to shape the sound of a guitar or bass, but they can also be used with other instruments or even for processing vocal signals.

For example, by boosting the bass, a guitarist can achieve a deeper, fuller sound, while by cutting the treble, he can tone down strident notes. Similarly, a bassist can use an EQ pedal to eliminate unwanted frequencies and fine-tune the sound of his bass so that it blends seamlessly with the rest of the band.

The different types of equalization

There are two main types of equalizer: graphic equalizers and parametric equalizers.

Graphic equalizers

Graphic equalizers divide the audio spectrum into several fixed frequency bands. Each band can be individually adjusted using volume sliders. These pedals offer a clear visual representation of the sound spectrum, making them particularly useful for live adjustments on stage or in the studio.

Parametric equalizers

Parametric equalizers offer greater flexibility by allowing the user to control not only volume, but also the center frequency and width of each frequency band. This enables more precise and targeted adjustments, making them a popular choice for studio mixing or for guitarists and bassists seeking maximum control over their sound.

Using the equalizer pedals

EQ pedals can be used in a variety of ways to shape the sound of a guitar or bass. Here are some common techniques:

1. Sculpt your sound: Use the EQ bands to boost or cut specific frequencies to get the sound you want. For example, you can boost the bass for a warmer, rounder sound, ideal for thick, powerful bass lines. Likewise, cutting the midrange can be useful for eliminating unwanted “mud” and making your sound clearer and more articulate, perfect for guitar solos where every note needs to stand out sharply.

2. Frequency response equalization: Use equalization to compensate for the shortcomings of your instrument or amp, adjusting frequencies to achieve a more linear frequency response. For example, if your guitar tends to sound too bright or too dull, you can adjust the frequencies to balance the sound and achieve a more balanced tone that’s pleasing to the ear. Similarly, if your amp has peaks or valleys in its frequency response, you can use equalization to correct these faults and achieve a more uniform, coherent sound.

3. Frequency highlighting: Use EQ to highlight certain frequencies and make certain parts of your playing stand out. For example, you can boost the treble to add sparkle to your solos, making each note sparkle and adding a touch of clarity and definition to your playing. Likewise, boosting the mids can be useful for making your rhythm guitar sound stand out in a dense mix, giving it more presence and punch to stand out among the other instruments.

4. Place your sound in the mix: Use EQ to shape the sound image of your instrument in a mix. For example, by cutting the low frequencies of your electric guitar, you can give it more clarity and presence in the mix, preventing it from becoming too muddy and masking the other instruments. Similarly, by adjusting the mids and highs, you can place your instrument in the foreground or subtly integrate it into the background, depending on the needs of the song and the overall production.

History of equalizer pedals

Equalizers have a long history in audio, dating back to the earliest days of sound recording and reproduction. The first equalizers were massive, complex pieces of studio equipment, used by sound engineers to shape the sound of recordings. Over time, this technology became miniaturized and more accessible, leading to the appearance of the first guitar and bass EQ pedals in the 1970s.

Since then, EQ pedals have become an essential part of every musician’s toolbox, offering unprecedented control over sound and total timbre customization.

Some leading EQ pedal models

Among the iconic models of equalizer pedals, several names stand out:

BOSS EQ-200 Graphic Equalizer

The BOSS EQ-200 Graphic Equalizer is a powerful and versatile graphic equalizer (certainly one of the most complete on the market), offering precise control over your sound.

With its ten adjustable frequency bands, this pedal lets you sculpt your sound according to your preferences, adjusting bass, midrange and treble with great precision. Whether you’re looking for a deeper, fuller sound or want to cut unwanted frequencies, the EQ-200 gives you maximum flexibility to shape your sound to your needs. With its robust construction and intuitive controls, this pedal is ideal for guitarists and bassists looking for precise, efficient equalization for their sound.

MXR M108S Ten Band EQ

The MXR M108S Ten Band EQ pedal is a versatile graphic equalizer with ten adjustable frequency bands. It offers total control over bass, midrange and treble, enabling musicians to shape their sound with precision.

With its robust construction and intuitive controls, this pedal is ideal for guitarists and bassists looking for precise, efficient equalization for their sound.

Empress ParaEq with Boost

The Empress ParaEq with Boost pedal offers flexible parametric equalization with frequency, bandwidth and gain controls. It lets musicians fine-tune low and high frequencies to sculpt their sound to their personal preferences.

What’s more, this pedal features a built-in boost function, offering an extra boost to the signal for solos or loud moments.

EarthQuaker Devices Tone Job EQ and Boost

This EQ pedal combines three-band EQ controls with an adjustable boost function. It allows musicians to adjust bass, midrange and treble according to their preferences, while offering an extra boost to their signal.

The Tone Job is particularly appreciated for its versatility and its ability to add clarity and presence to the sound.

Source Audio EQ2 Programmable Equalizer

This EQ pedal offers ultimate flexibility with its ten fully parameterizable frequency bands and preset saving capabilities.

It is equipped with a host of advanced features, such as low- and high-cut filters, flexible routing options and MIDI connectivity, making it an ideal choice for demanding musicians and sound engineers.

Wampler EQuator Advanced Audio Equalizer

This EQ pedal combines intuitive design with advanced features to give you total control over your sound. It features seven frequency bands with individual volume controls, plus an adjustable boost function for each band.

The EQuator is appreciated for its sonic transparency and its ability to integrate easily into any effects configuration.

Boss GE-7 Equalizer

This compact EQ pedal offers seven frequency bands with individual volume controls for each band. It’s renowned for its reliability and durability, as well as for its ability to offer precise, efficient equalization in a portable format.

The GE-7 is often used by guitarists and bassists looking for a simple, effective equalizer to shape their sound on stage or in the studio.

In conclusion, EQ pedals are versatile and powerful tools that offer total control over sound. Whether you’re looking for subtle tone correction or radical transformation of your sound, a well-chosen EQ pedal can help you achieve your sonic goals.

And what about you, what are your equalization preferences?