I recently read the November issue of Electronic Musician, particularly the article by Michael Cooper titled Truth or Consequeces. The article deals with two inexpensive methods for tuning a control room. I am going to "grossly" paraphrase for sake of being brief, yet method #1 utilizes measurements of the wall's to determine problem frequencies below 300 Hz. It then incorporates an oscillator fed through properly placed reference monitor's and a parametric EQ to adjust db of the problem frequencies' notches and spikes. #2 Utilizes a Mac program, Spectrafoo, a pink noise generator, a measurement mic and a parametric eq to capture those frequencies.
Couple of questions. Based on other's experience out there, does method #1 really work well? Possibly when combined with properly placed accoustical treatment? Secondly, is there any PC based software program that provides an adquate spectrograph function that would compare to Spectrafoo?
A perfect world would be one where I had the resources to pay for an engineer to do this, but I take time to research, have an education and for the most part, I am patient with these matters.
Lastly, he mentions three parametric eq's in the article; TC Electronic TC 2240, the Klark Teknik DN410, and the Symetrix 552E. Given the list prices he notes, I "might" be able to afford the Symetrix model. Any other parametric eq's in the lower price range/don't sacrifice too much sonic quality out there?
Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
JB
PS- I have a pair of Yamaha NS-10m's and may purchase Yamaha's powered subwoofer to go with them. Once again, the subwoofer is a tad pricey.
i think the sub might be a better investment than an eq, having heard the ns-10s myself. if you find that you're mixes still aren't translating (read: sounding good on other systems - home, car, ghetto blaster) you may want to look into an eq. i don't think it's something to jump into straight off...
in answer to your question, i think a parametric can be a great tool, IF used correctly. it can also be destructive if not used with care. ultimately, i think if your speakers sound alright in your room, and your mixes are translating, why mess with it?
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