You set up the equalizer for the low listening situation. When you want to listen at higher levels most equalizers come with a bypass switch. There you go, your home personal loudness switch
LOUDNESS COMPENSATION EITHER IN AN EQUALIZER OR LOUDNESS CONTOUR CONTROL IN AN AMPLIFIER
A few days ago I started a thread on Audiogon under Amplifiers entitled best amplifier for low to moderate listening levels. The consensus opinion was that the amplifier is not the problem. The Fletcher Munson Curve was mentioned. Essentially there seems to be 2 options: 1. Loudness switch, also called loudness contour control (which can be found on many old receivers as well as some current Luxman products. Another option an equalizer, such as is the Schitt Loki equalizer which range from $300.00 to $1500.00. I am seeking to boost the base and treble at low listening levels to achieve a fuller richer sound quality. If I go the route of an equalizer how do I set up the equalizer? Not concerned about all the frequencies, only looking to have a more enjoyable listening experience at low volume levels with the bass and treble controls. Can anybody recommend any products have loudness compensation controls, or equalizers that accomplish the same. The only equalizer product I have heard of is the Schitt product, but they do not take phone calls to answer any questions. I would rather pay more for a product and get the guidance of a quality dealer where I can have a live conversation,( not an e mail ) with him or her and make sure he or she understands what I am looking to accomplish. .
Any guidance would be appreciated.
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Not knowing what your system currently consists of, but if you’re willing to look at used gear, the McIntosh MX-120 has a nicely integrated variable loudness contour that provides more control than an on/off loudness switch, allowing you to dial in to compensate for the FM principal. The unit was marketed as home theater processor, but 2-channel analog side of this unit is essentially a C48. It would solve your problem, but would require the purchase of a power amp if you’re coming from an integrated.
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I’ve had good results with Rane graphic equalizers. I like the build quality, and the company’s serious design approach for pro users. You can find the ME 60 on second hand markets, with 30 sliders per channel for 1/3 octave control. You can tailor your loudness contour to your preferences and room acoustics. There’s a bypass switch for when you choose to play loud. |
+1 on @carlsbad2 comment. Seriously OP, get off the caps lock. This isn’t your first offense. Mods should delete any threads where folks do this. |
Chase RLC-1 Remote Line Controller This unit has IDEAL automatic and progressive implementation of Fletcher Munson (FM) Low Volume Bass Boost. IDEAL because if setup properly, it’s a set and forget, automatically engages/disengages FM, hard to screw it up AND, some other beneficial remote features: on/off; volume; mute; balance; bass; treble; 4 input selection; 2 identical l/r outputs. ALL functions are remote controlled. Note: Must have its remote control, there are no controls on the unit. …………………………………………. Chase Unit is an Easy Way to Add Remote Features to any Non-Remote System (Vintage or Modern) ……………………………………….. 105 db S/N is TRUE. It has Versatile Uses. I have had a few in/out of my system(s) over the years. NONE of my audiophile friends can tell if it is IN or OUT of my system. I am about to add my spare unit back in my main system, primarily for occasional remote balance tweaks. One now in Office for remote power only for R2R/TT/Luxman Integrated. Luxman has remote volume and mute. One now in Garage/Shop: Yamaha Receiver’s Tape Loop. Alternate use for remote volume and FM implementation if very low volume (if Donna watching TV in room above that system’s speakers). I can demonstrate it out or in line, let people hear no difference. …………………………………………..
Up to 4 selectable line level inputs (two l/r identical outputs) Component(s) to Chase to AMP.
Component(s) to Preamp to Chase to AMP Retains your preamp’s functions and adds Chase Remote Features.
Component(s) to Receiver/Preamp to Tape Out (or Processor Out) to Chase to Tape IN (or Processor IN) Monitor Switch OUT = Preamp to AMP (Chase NOT In-Line) Monitor Switch ON: Component to Preamp: out to Chase: back to Preamp: to AMP. (Chase In-Line).
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C1. Louder, above default Low Normal: no FM Compensation C2. Lower/lower volume. (below Chase’s default volume): FM Compensation automatically begins and progressively increases as you lower volume: Boosts Bass, definitely preferable at very low volumes C3. Raise Volume from low/lower: FM decreases progressively until no FM at Chase Default volume Level. Continue to raise volume with no FM Compensation. ……………………………………………………… |