Really basic EQ question

[IanChad]

This might be a really dumb question but I've never used anything more complex than a mixer into a power amp driving full range speakers on sticks...
What's the best place for a graphic eq when running subs and tops? Do you balance the complete signal in mono before the crossover or eq the high and low channels independently after the crossover?

[Zack Brock]

This might be a really dumb question but I've never used anything more complex than a mixer into a power amp driving full range speakers on sticks...
What's the best place for a graphic eq when running subs and tops? Do you balance the complete signal in mono before the crossover or eq the high and low channels independently after the crossover?

EQ is typically before the crossover. You can also use it as an insert on your mixer for the main LR output (if your mixer has this option).

Signal path:

Mixer -> EQ -> Crossover -> Power Amps.

[IanChad]

Thanks Zack.

I had been wondering about this as most GEQs seem to be stereo. I assume if you have a stereo GEQ you can use one side for your FOH and the other for monitors?

[Gregory East]

Yup.

If I was doing it all again tomorrow I'd go with a proccessor instead of EQ, limiter, crossover and all the cables.

[IanChad]

Gregory, when you say a processor, do you mean something like Behringer's DCX2496?

[Gregory East]

Yup. The other popular one is the Driverack PA which has a few models (DRPA for short)

[jeffsco]

Bypass the Driverack PA and get the Driverack 260. You'll be glad you did. If Budget was the main consideration...go with the Behringer DCX2496. I installed one in a Church, replacing my Driverack 260 and it has performed fantastic. i was supprised because i've not had great luck with any other Behringer processor...though their EP2500 poweramps have been great.

[Bruce Weldy]

Bypass the Driverack PA and get the Driverack 260. .

What problems have you encountered with the DRPA? I bought one used off Ebay and so far it's done everything I've needed. Something I should look out for?

[jswingchun]

Gregory, when you say a processor, do you mean something like Behringer's DCX2496?

DEQ2496

Combine that with the DCX2496 and you can handle anything.

[Fish]

Combine that with the DCX2496 and you can handle anything.

I'd argue that the parametric EQs in the DCX2496 should be enough for the average situation. If you're not familiar with how to use parametrics, it's time to start playing with them and learning!

[bgavin]

As with all digital boxes, the more/steeper filters you use, the less processing power is available.

I am just getting my feet wet with DCX2496, primarily as a management system, rather than EQ.
It has to handle HP for Subs, HP for Tops, and HP for monitor sends.
Each DCX has three outputs, so two DCX are required for my mono Subs+Tops and four Monitor mixes.

I have several Rane ME30B and GE30 analog EQ that work well. And they are paid for.
One can get so buried with signal processing, they forget the basic requirement is producing sound for the event.
I saw this at an event earlier this year... the poor guy was buried in stress, and something in his digital rack quit on him.