Behringer EQ700 Graphic Equalizer Pedal

Most acoustic and electric guitar energy lies between 100 Hz and 6.4 kHz. Even slight changes in this range can cause a tremendous variation in overall energy and impact, as the human ear is especially sensitive to this range.

Boosting frequencies around 200 Hz – 400 Hz often provides warmth and body, while boosting frequencies in the 3.2 kHz – 6.4 kHz range adds clarity to clean guitar signals. Depending on the amount of distortion, this same range can ruin the sound of an overdriven electric guitar by adding harsh harmonics.

One of the most common mistakes is adding too much bass to acoustic guitars. If the low frequencies are boosted excessively, acoustics can easily get lost in the overall mix. Most acoustic guitars are also prone to feedback in the 200 Hz – 400 Hz range.

A general rule of thumb-the best results are often achieved by finding and reducing the frequency bands that are offending, and then turning up the overall volume, rather than boosting one specific band.

How the specific frequency bands of the EQ700 can shape your sound:
100 Hz (low bass)
Boost: To add fullness to guitars, especially clean electrics
Cut: To reduce muddy or boomy tone and control acoustic guitar feedback
200 Hz (soft bass)
Boost: To increase the warmth of all guitars and provide a slightly harder sound
Cut: To increase clarity and reduce feedback in acoustic guitars
400 Hz (hard bass)
Boost: To add definition to rhythm parts
Cut: To reduce feedback in acoustic guitars (This is a major feedback zone for piezo-equipped flattops)
800 Hz
Boost: To add an aggressive edge to the overall sound
Cut: For reducing the nasal or horn-like content, often referred to as the “cheap guitar” syndrome
1.6 kHz
Boost: To make the guitar cut through the mix. Creates a more distinctive plucked tone
Cut: To eliminate dullness and competition with vocals (vocal fundamentals occupy the range from about 1.0 kHz – 2.5 kHz)
3.2 kHz
Boost: To add significant attack to all guitars. Creates an even more distinctive plucked tone
Cut: To eliminate harshness
6.4 kHz
Boost: To add edge and increase brightness to all guitars
Cut: To soften thin-sounding guitars and remove string squeak