31 Band Graphic EQ. Which EQ is the right one for the job? That depends on the occasion and personal preference. Generally speaking, parametric EQ has a higher learning curve and can cause more extreme changes in the sound. A graphic EQ is more visual and easier to understand right away. It was all graphic EQs, all the time. Because of this, when I switched to digital it took me a while to get comfortable tuning a room or wedges with a parametric EQ. Now it's about all I use, along with dynamic compression. Admittedly, sometimes I'll still soft patch a graphic EQ on wedges to feel safe.

• Parametric Eq Pedal

Parametric Eq Pedal

As far as I know, the difference is the centering and band shift controls given on a parametric, which the graphic lacks. Is that right? Or is there any more to it than that?Is it normal for parametrics to have less bands than graphics?

By that, I mean the main band sliders.Is it okay or would it be considered 'wrong' (or superflous; or stupid?) to stack EQ VSTs by having a parametric and a graphic EQ both on one insert?Is there any particular advantage to a graphic EQ over a parametric? Or does the para make the graphic superflous, due to the extra fine tuning?Otherwise, what sort of situations would you say call for one over the other? Or is that a silly question?

It's not silly.I used to use graphic eq's only, but at some point I realised there are limitations (you cant change the Q for example. What if you want to do a narrow cut on a frequecy that does not show up on graphic eq? You try to compensate it with maybe two nearest faders, but thats not the real thing. Besides that how do you sweep the frequencies with graphic eq?).I have tried many parametric eq's now and the one I like the most is Fabfilter Pro-Q. You can have up to 49? Handles, which is even more than the usual 31 bands on graphic eq + tons of other useful features.

Otherwise, what sort of situations would you say call for one over the other? Or is that a silly question?You'd generally use a graphic for dialing in a monitor system - To take chunks of 'problematic' audio out of speakers subject to feedback on stage. Parametrics for just about anything else (recording, mixing, etc.).As far as the number of available bands - Although certain plugs (like Pro-Q - A go-to here for that matter just for its flexibility) allow for more bands than others - If you need more than 3 or 4 bands on a single source, you're probably working with the wrong source and have bigger problems than which EQ you have handy. Graphics have more filters so there is a better chance one is near what you need. Parametric eq filters can be moved as needed so you don't need as many.

You might use all the filters at once on a parametric, but it's not a good sign if you're using all the filters of a graphic.Parametrics are more precise, but graphics are faster and simpler so are typically better for live use during the gig for tonal adjustments or feedback control. Parametrics in live use are generally set ahead of time to even out the response of speaker systems based on measurements. Graphics are faster and simpler so are typically better for live use during the gig for tonal adjustments or feedback control.