2. tech-talk
  3. 176330-148323

Does a graphic equalizer show where your amp is lacking?

 I am a fringe relatively unknowledgeable audiophile. I purchased a year ago on  Audiogon both a Technics SUG700 integrated amp and Canton 9k reference speakers with shaker cables, my source is a Marantz CD player all interconnects are 35-year-old monster cable. It is a very revealing system. Having said that I recently purchased a Schiits Loki equalizer and was surprised at the amount of added detail it provided to the music most noticeable in the higher frequencies i.e. violins have more sparkle and inner detail.  My question does this mean the sug700 is lacking in that regard.Also since the Loki alters the sound is this like having different speakers simply by altering the sound signature of the Cantons by boosting or suppressing its various frequencies? What is the downside to equalizers other than adding another piece of gear the signal travels through?

As an aside I read a post on here about Chinese knock-off audio goods so for the fun of it my price of admission was around $20 for a pair of knock-off Van din Hull interconnects normally costing a few hundred bucks. Well, I got what I expected JUNK wrapped in a Van din Hull cover. It played ok until I turned up the volume when my amp told me "signal overflow" whatever that means( clipping ?). Anyway removed the ripoff and attached my old Monster interconnects and no more signal overflow just sweet music. If these were the real deal they are defective as evident when taking it apart, just sloppy workmanship! One example the center pin on one RCA interconnect was not only poorly coated but half of one pin was cut through! The copper strands were sloppily crimped with many strands not where they should be  and no soldered connections just press fit. 

scott22
yogi42
21 posts
 

Let’s see, I’m 87 was in the military in 1954 in the signal corps working around 105 mm guns with no protection, I probably can’t hear frequencies above 10kHz  but I still enjoy my music  😂😂😂

 

 

 

sgreg1
612 posts
 

All amps have a certain signature sound. You want to find one that is as neutral as possible to let the recording come through untouched. The true purpose of an EQ is to correct for room acoustics . If you are using to try and correct your amp get a different amp. Example; an amp with bad mids run into an EQ will only amplify or boost the bad mids. 

larry5729's avatar
larry5729
1,008 posts
 

I was not aware there were graphic equalizers for sale.  I think this is why people purchase amplifiers that produce the sound they like, as each amplifier has its own sound.  

barryaudiophile
57 posts
 

Fundamentally any good amplifier has no sonic signature. When combined with cables and a speaker the amplifier interacts through the cables and with the speaker such that the three create a unique sonic signature. There are three variables you have to consider to get a sound that you are now attributing just to the amplifier.

Amplifier technologies (design typologies) that have a propensity to create curtain definable types of signatures on average but each combination is again, unique.  There are enough 'outliers' to this state that it is a general rule and not a law.

An equalizer, regardless of controls will shape the frequency and phase response of the above combination handling only the tonal aspect of the audio image you wish to create.  Basic common use is to accommodate specific room-induced interaction with the speaker.  Given that the whole system, that is the room, speakers, cables, and amplifier is a dynamic interactive 'thing', in the end we are lucky to get the sound we do.

boomerbillone
356 posts
 

Hi Scott 22! You're learning! Good for you! If an added piece of equipment increases your enjoyment, Hooray! Yes, it is like getting different speakers; and much cheaper.  There is good stuff available from manufacturers you haven't heard of, but a company's reputation is worth something. Some outfits have not much to sell besides their reputation and don't mind taking your money for the "pride of ownership." When you read reviews, remember sombody is paying for that review. When they say, "I bought the review sample," you can believe them. When they say, "If you are looking for an XYZ in this price bracket, this is worthy of consideration." it means "eeenh." It is very risky to buy something you have not heard - in person. Be sure you can afford (or return) the gamble. Your grandmother could have told you that. Good gear is available used for much lless $$. Keep Smiling.

More to discover