Basics of Equalization 3
Multi-band application and results
So far we have only dealt with cutting or boosting single frequency bands. The differences between the constant Q and variable Q methods become more "graphic," if you will, when adjacent frequency bands are involved.
In this example, three adjacent bands are used. They have settings of + 6 dB, 0 dB, and + 6 dB, respectively:
You can see how the 0 dB setting on the variable Q equalizer merely serves to round off the top of the curve; in actuality, this translates into a boost in the range of frequencies under that band's control. You would have to cut the gain on that band significantly to reduce the unintended consequences of boosting the other two frequency ranges.
The constant Q equalizer, on the other hand, has more precise control over each of the frequency bands. As you can see in this example, the effect on the center band is significantly lower:
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