LS1-131/LS2-215/LS3-231Constant Q Graphic Equalizers

Using an Equalizer:

Mixing and equalizing music requires an experienced ear and knowledge of the different tonal characteristics of each instrument. The voice characteristics of some common instruments are compared to a conventional 88-note piano keyboard in figure 5 below. As indicated on the chart, the piano has the widest frequency range among the instruments shown. This makes the comparison easier to understand. For instructional purposes, we will separate the equalizer bands into six distinct ranges and briefly explain the tonal characteristics of each section.

Figure 5: Frequency Range Comparison Chart:

PIANO

PICCOLO

FLUTE

OBOE

CLARINET (Bb)

BASSOON

TRUMPET

FRENCH HORN

TROMBONE

TUBA

TIMPANI

CYMBALS

VIOLIN

VIOLA

CELLO

BASS VIOLIN

SOPRANO

ALTO

TENOR

BASS

A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C D E F G A B C

2 7 . 5 0

3 0 . 8 7

3 2 . 7 0

3 6 . 7 1

4 1 . 2 0

4 3 . 6 5

4 9 . 0 0

5 5 . 0 0

6 1 . 7 1

6 5 . 4 1

7 3 . 4 2

8 2 . 4 1

8 7 . 3 1

9 8 . 0 0

1 1 0 . 0 0

1 2 3 . 4 7

1 3 0 . 8 1

1 4 6 . 8 3

1 6 4 . 8 1

1 7 4 . 6 1

1 9 6 . 0 0

2 2 0 . 0 0

2 4 6 . 9 4

2 6 1 . 6 3

2 9 3 . 6 6

3 2 9 . 6 3

3 4 9 . 2 3

3 9 2 . 0 0

4 4 0 . 0 0

4 9 3 . 8 8

5 2 3 . 2 5

5 8 7 . 3 3

6 5 9 . 2 6

6 9 8 . 4 6

7 8 3 . 9 9

8 8 0 . 0 0

9 8 7 . 7 7

1 0 4 6 . 5 0

1 1 7 4 . 6 6

1 3 1 8 . 5 1

1 3 9 6 . 9 1

1 5 6 7 . 9 8

1 7 6 0 . 0 0

1 9 7 5 . 5 3

2 0 9 3 . 0 0

2 3 4 9 . 3 2

2 6 3 7 . 0 2

2 7 9 3 . 8 3

3 1 3 5 . 9 6

3 5 2 0 . 0 0

3 9 5 1 . 0 7

4 1 8 6 . 0 1

Bass Range: (20Hz-125Hz)

Unlike the other instruments shown, the piano contains some funda- mental frequencies in the 20Hz-40Hz range . The 40Hz-120hz range has a greater audible effect on “low bass”. The electric bass guitar and the acoustic bass both have fundamentals in this region (The “E” string on an electric bass is 41.2Hz). This region provides much of the low end “punch” in bass instruments and drums.

Mid-Bass Range: (125Hz-250Hz)

The “fullness” of the mix will be determined in this region, either adding a “thicker” or “fatter” characteristic or making it “thin” or “weak”. The guitar and bass both contain fundamentals in this range along with the male or tenor voice. This region also provides the apparent “loudness” of a mix, especially around 160Hz.

Low-Mid Range: (125Hz-250Hz)

This range tends to add a harsh “muddy” sound when boosted, particularly around 300Hz.

This sliders in this region should be adjusted to the detent (flat) position or even reduced slightly to produce a more appealing tonal quality.

Mid-Range: (500Hz-4kHz)

This is the range at which the human ear is most sensitive. Very small changes in this area can produce a dramatic effect. This region is most commonly reduced in amplitude to produce a rich sound with more emphasis on low bass and upper high end regions. When equalizing indi- vidual instruments in a mix, this range becomes very important to bring them to the “front” of the mix, cutting through the rest of the instruments.

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Crate Amplifiers LS2-215 Using an Equalizer, Bass Range 20Hz-125Hz, Mid-Bass Range 125Hz-250Hz, Low-Mid Range 125Hz-250Hz

LS2-215, LS1-131, LS3-231 specifications

Crate Amplifiers has long been a name synonymous with quality sound and innovative technology, and their latest offerings, the LS1-131, LS3-231, and LS2-215, showcase this legacy of excellence. These amplifiers are designed for musicians and sound engineers who demand performance and reliability.

The LS1-131 is a compact yet powerful amplifier that delivers an impressive 100 watts of clean power. It features a versatile 3-channel design, allowing for a wide range of tonal options. The built-in digital effects processor includes reverb, delay, and chorus, enabling users to enhance their sound effortlessly. The LS1-131 is equipped with a 10-inch speaker, which provides a rich, full-bodied tone, making it ideal for both practice and live performances. Additionally, its lightweight design makes it easy to transport, catering to musicians on the go.

Moving up the line, the LS2-215 takes things a step further with a two-channel setup that boasts 200 watts of power. This amplifier is perfect for more demanding performance environments. The LS2-215 features a robust 15-inch speaker that offers deep bass response, making it suitable for genres that require low-end clarity. With its built-in EQ and multiple effects options, users can customize their sound further to suit their style. The durable construction ensures that this amp can withstand the rigors of touring, while the integrated handle allows for easy setup and transport.

At the top of the range, the LS3-231 offers an unrivaled combination of power and versatility with 300 watts of output. This amplifier features a sophisticated 4-channel design, providing musicians with an extensive array of sound-sculpting capabilities. The LS3-231 includes advanced connectivity options, including Bluetooth streaming, which allows for seamless integration with mobile devices for practice or performance. Its dual 12-inch speakers deliver incredible clarity and punch, making it a popular choice for professionals in larger venues.

All three models incorporate Crate's proprietary technology, such as thermal overload protection and robust signal processing, ensuring reliability in demanding situations. The user-friendly interface across the LS series makes it easy to adjust settings on the fly, allowing musicians to focus on their performance rather than their equipment. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Crate LS1-131, LS3-231, and LS2-215 amplifiers provide exceptional sound quality, flexibility, and durability to meet the needs of any performer.