Equalizers - Graphiic, Parametric & Channel Balance


I know this topic has a history on these forums but my question has more to do with channel balance than to their theory of operation. Primaily due to personal hearing deficiencies but also to deal with unfortunate room acoustics, I will be installing/keeping an EQ in my system, so the question of whether or not to do so has already been settled.

I began experimenting with a graphic EQ simply because it's operation seemed at least visibility like it would be more direct and simple to use. I was wrong in at least one respect; to get good results, it's not all that simple. Anyway, the overall results have been good. Based on recommendations found here on Audiogon as well as other sources, though, I decided to experiment with a borrowed parametric EQ which I found to have better control and, in some ways, at least as easy to use.

Anyway, I like the PEQ better except for one important issue; with it I have no channel balance control. This is important because of the room layout and because my hearing loss is not bilaterally equal. For reasons discussed in other forums I can't / won't use hearing aids and, for the present at least, I'm sticking with my Peactree Audio pre and power amps. So the question is whether there exists such a thing as a parametric equalizer that has this control? I suppose that one alternative might be to use one parametric EQ for each channel, and if that's what it takes, so be it. Any suggestions?

My sources are Shanling CD S-100 or Apple TV using lossless files and the speakers are Martin Logan Ethos.
128x128broadstone
Go to Behringer's web site and look at the Ultracurve PRO DEQ2496. It has every feature imaginable. If you think an EQ may be the solution to your problem, this one will give you the best chance for success. I have one myself, and its not too difficult to use. You can download the manual at Behringer's web site.

If you want to explore more options, download Ubuntu Studio and run it live. Its full of all kinds of signal processors. There may be some apps that can be of use to you. Its a free distro, so there's no risk in trying it.
Broadstone, I agree that the DEQ would be an excellent solution for you. I have a Ric-Schultz(EVS)-modified version I've used, until very recently, since 2007 that I'm getting ready to sell. I can let you have it for $250 + shipping, if you're interested. I think the mods cost me about $300 over the cost of the unit. The most relevant here might be the power supply mod that quiets some noise in the SMPS. Also a Canare RCA dig. out jack has been installed in place of the original AES/EBU and has been converted to 75ohm. I used it as a DAC and enjoyed it very well. Has been very reliable and has operated without fault. I intended to list it here anyway, but I can give you the heads up on when exactly it's going to be listed, if you like.