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Experiment: Level Matching Frequencies

For fun, from my listening position, I experimented with a Radio Shack SPL meter and a demo disc. Using the ROON equalizer, I level matched frequencies at 80dB (50Hz, 63Hz, 80Hz, 100Hz, 125Hz…etc.) This took a few hours and the results were not good.

Of interest, I corrected a peak of +12dB @ 80Hz, a dip of -8dB @ 100Hz,  and a peak of +6dB between 160-200Hz. Other frequencies up to 10kHz needed minor adjustment of +/- 1 to 3dB.

With adjustments, music sounded terrible. For example it was very thin in the mids, compared to no EQ. This experiment was a waste; I expected and hoped these adjustments would improve the sound. Please note: I am a recreational listener, not and EE nor majored in music which means this experiment was ad hoc and  unscientific.

Have any of you tried this or have thoughts as to why level matching frequencies this way had poor results?

128x1284hannons

Showing 2 responses by gdnrbob

gdnrbob
4,419 posts
 
I am no audio pro, but I recall in my youth buying an equalizer to correct sound imperfections. It, like your experience, was one of disappointment.
One of the problems is that most speakers have crossovers and other such innards that will react, sometimes negatively, to external changes in frequency levels.- I am probably not phrasing this correctly, but I hope you get the idea.
A better way to affect sound deficiencies would be room correction. At least to my simple mind.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,419 posts
 
Eric, I recall that you build speakers. Right?
Do you think my assessment regarding crossover/wiring affecting hound level balancing correct?
Bob
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