just got a new head unit. Kenwood excelon KDC-X895. trying to find out what the eq settings "center frq" and "q-factor" do in terms of tuning. any help would be great. Haven't found a good explaination yet and I want to understand what those settings do. Thanks

 

Most people are familiar with a graphic equalizer. This type of EQ has a number of bands at set frequencies that you can adjust the amount of boost or cut at.

A parametric equalizer lets you choose or move the frequency that you want to affect. This is the center frequency.

All EQs affect not just the frequency indicated but also those around it. Think of it like a mountain - some are narrow at the base relative to the height and others are wide at the base relative to the height. Those EQs that do not affect much around the center frequency (narrow base) are said to have a Low Q and those that affect a bunch around the center frequency (wide base) are said to have a High or Wide Q. Most parametric equalizers let you choose how much Q you want.

Generally parametric EQs are seen as superior to the graphic type. In the car environment there is often a need for both a sharp narrow correction in one part of the frequency spectrum and also a wide gradual one at another. A parametric EQ lets you handle both.

 

Very good explaination !

 

Ok so I for sure have a parametric eq. now I'm what frq to use as center for bass treble and mids? Is there a common number most people use or is it personal preference ? Also q-factor for bass and mids, I have choices from 1.00,1.25,1.5,and 2. Is this also preference or is there a general number most people like to use? I am new to this detailed eq as my previous hu wasn't so detailed

 

Also thank you for the detailed explaination

 

This is about the best picture I could find on google images. The lower the Q number, the more it affects the surrounding frequencies. In this image the center frequency is approximately 1.6k (or slightly below that anyways). Does this help at all?

 

ok let me know if I got this right. Center frq is the frequency I want to affect and q-factor widens the frequencies around the center frequency so I'm playing with more then just the selected center frequency? So it all depends on what I like ? or do some frequencies need more "boosting" then others? if so what do most people go for?

 

hit the nail on the head.


What frequencies all depends on what you prefer. Are there certain frequencies that sound harsh? ones that hurt your ears? Ever hear a symbol crash that your speakers just cant handle?

These are a few things I usually look for when adjusting. I find myself bringing frequencies down a lot more than I bring them up.

 

sweet thanks for explaining this all to me. I guess it's time to test out different settings