Using the Equalizer

Each of the four Zone Outputs includes a two-band equal- izer allowing individual equalization settings on each output channel. Located in the Zone Output section on the right side of the front panel, each output’s equalizer features LOW (BASS) and HIGH (TREBLE) controls. By using these controls to adjust the frequency response, you can to set an individual tonal contour curve for the speakers connected to each Zone Output. For example if you are using a zone for announcement paging only, you can cut a little of the bass and treble which will produce an equaliza- tion contour emphasizing the midrange. For music you can add bass and treble to produce a “Hi-fi” equalization contour.

Operating the S zone

Setting the Zone Output EQ For Voice

To set the Zone Output equalizer for vocal operation you want to emphasize the midrange response. To do this lower the LOW and HIGH frequency control knobs by about 3dB so set them to the 11:00 position as shown in the following diagram.

Zone Output Equalizer

The LOW Frequency EQ control provides up to 12 dB of CUT or BOOST at 100 Hz. You’ll notice a single detent when the control knob is located in the center of its travel range indicating that there is no boost or cut and that the LOW frequency response of the channel is flat. The HIGH Frequency EQ control provides up to 12 dB of CUT or BOOST at 10kHz. You’ll notice a single detent when the control knob is located in the center of its travel indicating that there is no boost or cut and that the HIGH frequency response of the channel is flat.

The next section explains how to apply some common equalization curves to for typical applications.

Vocal EQ Contour

Setting the Zone Output EQ For Music

To set the Zone Output equalizer for music playback you want to emphasize the bass and a treble like most con- sumer hi-fi systems. To do this raise the LOW and HIGH frequency control knobs by about 3dB so set them to the 2:00 position as shown in the following diagram.

Music EQ Contour

Note: It’s a good idea to test the sound zone with the type of program material (music or speech) that will ultimately be used in the working installation. Your speaker may sound great with little or no added equalization on the Zone Output. You can use an RTA (Real Time Analyzer) like the Samson D1500 to measure the frequency response of the speaker system in any sound zone. If you do not have an analyzer, use your ears and adjust the equalization to a setting that sounds good to you.