Ashly Parametric Equalizers SC-63 - Manual (Page 13)

Broad bandwidth problems are much easier to solve with an Ashly parametric
equalizer. On a graphic you can be trying to manipulate as many as 10 to 15
controls to find the right response. In fact, in many instances a graphic
equalizer can't correct the problem anyway simply by the nature of its design.
Use the medium to wide band step by step setup instructions on page 9 to
assist you in correcting your problem. Remember to give careful consideration
determining your problem, rather than trying to find a problem that may not
exist!
OPERATION FOR USE AS AN INSTRUMENT TONE CONTROL
Graphic type equalizers, while initially easier to operate, can not be as
accurate as the SC-63 and SC-66A
parametric equalizers. A parametric
equalizer gives unrestricted control of all the notes your instrument can
produce. The chart on page 20 shows the relationship between the notes you
play and the corresponding frequency number. There should be very little
guess work in deciding how you want to equalize your instrument once this
chart is used. Most musicians are already familiar with the terminology A =
490 Hz. By learning the numbers of other notes, you take the guess work out of
knowing where to set the controls on your parametric.
A common problem with many instruments is uneven response from low to high
notes. On string instruments you usually have one or more strings that are
not as loud, when picked or bowed, as the other strings. On wind instruments;
mouthpieces, reeds, and even weather changes can alter response. Most
keyboard players really have response problems!!
A general rule to follow is; listen carefully to your instrument and
determine what the response problems are. Try first, to correct them with
conventional means! Use equalization as a last resort, unless you are trying
to achieve special effects. The less equalization you use, the easier it will
be to get the "right" sound every time.
Use the narrow and medium to wide band setup suggestions on pages 8 & 9 to get
started.
Patch your equalizer into your system after the pre-amplification stage. Most
instrument pick-ups and direct outputs have too low a level to properly drive
the input of the SC-53 or SC-66A. An effects loop will work well, or if you
are feeding a mixer, use a direct in/out patch point on the channel.
APPLICATION AND OPERATION FOR RECORDING
The SC-63 and SC-66A can be used to augment or replace existing equalizers,
and compensate for system inadequacies. Experimentation with the SC-63 and
SC-66A will yield better results if the set up suggestions, trouble shooting
information and reference graph information in this manual is read.
ITEM: Critical Monitor Speaker Response Adjustment
Most control room monitor speakers have fairly smooth frequency response.
However, room acoustics can radically alter the freqency response you hear.
By using an SC-63 or SC-66A patched in before the monitor speakers amplifier
(or electronic crossover, if applies) you can compensate for room resonances
or dead spots. For exact results, some type of realtime analyzer, or scope
with a frequency sweep should be used.
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