Alan Parsons EQ Quiz
Alan Parsons started his career as an assistant engineer at EMI's 'Abbey Road' recording studios. Here he worked as an 'apprentice' for engineer Geoff Emerick, helping to record the 'Let it be' and 'Abbey Road' Beatle albums.
In 1973 he engineered Pink Floyd's 'Dark Side of the Moon', later forming the 'Alan Parsons Project' and becoming an artist in his own right.
Please watch the Alan Parsons EQ video. Look at the first question and replay the video. Answer the questions.
Feel free to make any notes that you think will assist you in Read moreyour recording project.
- 1.
Acoustically, sound is created by:
- A.
A vacuum in air
- B.
An absence of pressure variations
- C.
Pressure changes of varying frequency moving air in 'waves'
- D.
Mime
- E.
Waving a feather
Correct Answer
C. Pressure changes of varying frequency moving air in 'waves'Explanation
Sound is created by pressure changes of varying frequency moving air in 'waves'. When an object vibrates, it causes the surrounding air particles to vibrate as well. These vibrations create pressure waves that travel through the air. The frequency of the vibrations determines the pitch of the sound, while the amplitude of the waves determines the volume. So, sound is essentially the result of these pressure changes in the air that propagate as waves.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Frequency response in audio equipment states:
- A.
How loud a piece of equipment can record
- B.
How expensive a piece of equipment is
- C.
What the 'Bit depth' is in a piece of equipment
- D.
How much noise is added by the microphone
- E.
How faithfully the recorded sound is reproduced by equipment
Correct Answer
E. How faithfully the recorded sound is reproduced by equipmentExplanation
The frequency response in audio equipment refers to how faithfully the recorded sound is reproduced by the equipment. It describes the range of frequencies that the equipment can accurately reproduce, without distorting or altering the original sound. A wider frequency response indicates that the equipment can reproduce a broader range of frequencies, resulting in a more accurate and faithful reproduction of the original sound.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What 2 features of the sound of the breaking sea waves change as Alan alters his distance from the sea?
- A.
The volume decreases with further away from the sea, as does the amount of high frequency
- B.
The volume of the breaking sea waves increases with distance from the sea. High frequency content increases too.
Correct Answer
A. The volume decreases with further away from the sea, as does the amount of high frequencyExplanation
As Alan moves further away from the sea, the volume of the breaking sea waves decreases. This can be attributed to the fact that sound waves spread out and become less intense as they travel through the air. Additionally, the amount of high frequency content also decreases. High frequency sounds have shorter wavelengths and are more easily absorbed by the air and other obstacles, resulting in a decrease in their intensity as Alan moves away from the source of the waves.Rate this question:
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- 4.
EQ or 'Equalisation' was originally used:
- A.
In radio broadcasting to prevent signal overload
- B.
To improve guitar amplifier tone
- C.
To make up for the poor quality of telephone communications
Correct Answer
C. To make up for the poor quality of telephone communicationsExplanation
Equalisation, or EQ, was initially used to compensate for the low quality of telephone communications. By adjusting the frequency response of the audio signal, EQ can enhance certain frequencies and compensate for the deficiencies in the telephone system, resulting in improved audio quality during telephone conversations.Rate this question:
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- 5.
An EQ like the 'Pultec EQP1' is a passive tone control. What does passive mean?
- A.
It does not really make any difference to the tone of a signal
- B.
It requires a power supply for its transistor amplifiers
- C.
It has no need for an external power supply as its circuits have no amplifiers
Correct Answer
C. It has no need for an external power supply as its circuits have no amplifiersExplanation
Passive refers to a circuit or device that does not require an external power supply to operate. In the case of the 'Pultec EQP1', being a passive tone control means that it does not need an external power supply as its circuits do not contain any amplifiers. Therefore, it does not actively alter or amplify the tone of a signal but rather allows for subtle adjustments to the frequency response.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Frequency is measured in:
- A.
Nano Webers
- B.
Decibels (dB)
- C.
Herz (Hz) or Cycles per second
Correct Answer
C. Herz (Hz) or Cycles per secondExplanation
Frequency is a measure of how many cycles or vibrations occur in a given time period. It is commonly measured in Herz (Hz) or cycles per second. This unit represents the number of complete cycles or vibrations that occur in one second. Therefore, the correct answer is Herz (Hz) or Cycles per second.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following IS NOT a type of EQ:
- A.
Shelving
- B.
Parametric
- C.
Graphic
- D.
High pass filter
- E.
Barry Manilow
Correct Answer
E. Barry ManilowExplanation
The given options are all types of EQ except for Barry Manilow. Barry Manilow is a singer and not a type of EQ.Rate this question:
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- 8.
How does Mr Parsons remove 'Popping' from his vocal?
- A.
Editing it out
- B.
By crying
- C.
Using a compressor
- D.
Using a 'Low Pass filter' to remove high frequency
- E.
Using a 'High Pass filter' to remove bass
Correct Answer
E. Using a 'High Pass filter' to remove bassExplanation
Mr. Parsons removes 'Popping' from his vocal by using a 'High Pass filter' to remove bass. A high pass filter allows the high frequency sounds to pass through while cutting off the low frequency sounds. By removing the bass frequencies, which are often associated with popping sounds, Mr. Parsons can eliminate the unwanted popping from his vocal recordings.Rate this question:
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- 9.
A 'Low Pass Filter' could be used to:
- A.
Increase the high frequency 'Sheen' on a vocal
- B.
Decrease rumble from a bass amplifier
- C.
Remove high frequency 'Hiss' from guitar amplifiers
Correct Answer
C. Remove high frequency 'Hiss' from guitar amplifiersExplanation
A 'Low Pass Filter' is a type of audio filter that allows low-frequency signals to pass through while attenuating high-frequency signals. In the context of removing high frequency 'Hiss' from guitar amplifiers, a low pass filter can be used to cut off the higher frequencies that contribute to the hissing sound, resulting in a cleaner and less noisy audio signal. By selectively filtering out the high frequencies, the filter helps to remove unwanted noise and improve the overall sound quality of the guitar amplifier.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What 3 controls are found in a 'Parametric EQ'?
- A.
Win, loose or draw
- B.
Left, right and fire
- C.
Range, decay, gain
- D.
Threshold, ratio and attack
- E.
(Frequency selection), (cut or boost) and (bandwidth (or 'Q')
Correct Answer
E. (Frequency selection), (cut or boost) and (bandwidth (or 'Q')Explanation
The correct answer is (Frequency selection), (cut or boost) and (bandwidth (or 'Q'). In a Parametric EQ, these three controls are commonly found. Frequency selection allows the user to choose which frequency band to adjust, cut or boost control determines whether to reduce or increase the level of that frequency band, and bandwidth (or 'Q') control determines the width of the frequency band being adjusted. These controls are essential for precise and targeted equalization of audio signals.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Removing a very narrow band of frequencies is called:
- A.
'Notch Filtering'
- B.
'Crotch filtering'
- C.
'Scotch filtering'
- D.
'Vox Filtering'
Correct Answer
A. 'Notch Filtering'Explanation
Notch filtering refers to the process of removing a very narrow band of frequencies from a signal. It is commonly used to eliminate unwanted interference or specific frequencies that may cause distortion or noise in audio or radio signals. This technique involves creating a notch or deep null in the frequency response at the targeted frequency, effectively suppressing it while allowing other frequencies to pass through unaffected.Rate this question:
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- 12.
With 2 things can alter an electric guitar tone, other than EQ?
- A.
Length of the guitarist's hair
- B.
Day of the week
- C.
Alignment of the moon
- D.
Pick-up selection and microphone positioning
Correct Answer
D. Pick-up selection and microphone positioningExplanation
The length of the guitarist's hair, day of the week, and alignment of the moon are unrelated factors that do not have any impact on the electric guitar tone. However, pick-up selection and microphone positioning are crucial factors that can significantly alter the electric guitar tone. The pick-up selection determines the type of sound produced by the guitar, while microphone positioning affects the way the sound is captured and amplified. Therefore, these two factors play a vital role in shaping the electric guitar tone.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Recording 'Flat' means:
- A.
Applying no EQ during recording
- B.
Putting plenty of EQ on, during recording
Correct Answer
A. Applying no EQ during recordingExplanation
Recording 'Flat' means applying no EQ during recording. This means that the audio is captured in its natural state without any alterations or enhancements made to the frequency response. By not applying any EQ during recording, the sound is preserved exactly as it is, allowing for more flexibility and control in post-production when applying EQ or other effects if desired. This approach ensures a clean and unaltered recording, providing a blank canvas for further processing and mixing.Rate this question:
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- 14.
How can you get to know the 'tonal character of a studio you've never used before?
- A.
Stand on your head
- B.
Don't use any equipment you don't know
- C.
Bring a CD of music that you know well, or bring your own monitor speakers
Correct Answer
C. Bring a CD of music that you know well, or bring your own monitor speakersExplanation
To get to know the tonal character of a studio you've never used before, bringing a CD of music that you know well or your own monitor speakers would be the best option. By playing familiar music or using your own speakers, you can compare the sound quality and tonal characteristics to what you are already familiar with. This will help you gauge the studio's sound reproduction capabilities and make informed decisions about how to work with the equipment available.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Why should you check the effects of EQ on a mix using headphones?
- A.
Headphones are always more accurate
- B.
Headphones have more bass
- C.
A large percentage of the listening public have portable MP3/iPod music players
Correct Answer
C. A large percentage of the listening public have portable MP3/iPod music playersExplanation
Checking the effects of EQ on a mix using headphones is important because a large percentage of the listening public have portable MP3/iPod music players. Since these devices are commonly used for listening to music, it is crucial to ensure that the mix sounds good and balanced when played through headphones. By checking the mix on headphones, one can ensure that it will translate well to the common listening devices and provide a good listening experience for a wide audience.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What frequencies does Alan Parsons recommend to add attack to a bass guitar?
- A.
20-40 Hz in the sub-bass
- B.
16-18 KHz in the very high frequency range
- C.
1-3 KHz in the Mid frequency range
Correct Answer
C. 1-3 KHz in the Mid frequency rangeExplanation
Alan Parsons recommends adding attack to a bass guitar by emphasizing frequencies in the mid frequency range of 1-3 KHz. This range is known to enhance the clarity and definition of the bass guitar, allowing it to cut through the mix and be more audible in a musical arrangement. By boosting these frequencies, the attack and presence of the bass guitar can be improved, resulting in a more articulate and impactful sound.Rate this question:
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- 17.
How does Alan suggest removing a 'boomy' sound in the bass guitar
- A.
A boost in the 50-100Hz range
- B.
A cut in the 50-100Hz range
- C.
A cut in the 1-3KHz range
- D.
A cut in the 12KHz range
Correct Answer
B. A cut in the 50-100Hz rangeExplanation
Alan suggests removing a 'boomy' sound in the bass guitar by making a cut in the 50-100Hz range. This means reducing the volume or attenuating the frequencies within that specific range. By doing so, the excessive low-end frequencies that contribute to the boomy sound will be reduced, resulting in a cleaner and more balanced bass guitar sound.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Where does Mr P suggest the main 'body' of the kick drum is?
- A.
40 - 250 Hz range
- B.
12-20 KHz
- C.
20-40 KHz
Correct Answer
A. 40 - 250 Hz rangeExplanation
Mr P suggests that the main 'body' of the kick drum is in the 40 - 250 Hz range. This means that the majority of the sound produced by the kick drum, which gives it its depth and resonance, can be found within this frequency range. The lower frequencies in this range contribute to the thump and punch of the kick drum, while the higher frequencies add clarity and definition to the sound.Rate this question:
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- 19.
1-3 KHz covers what characteristic of a kick drum?
- A.
The rumble
- B.
The 'Thump' or body
- C.
The 'Click' of the beater (the transient 'snap' of the kick)
Correct Answer
C. The 'Click' of the beater (the transient 'snap' of the kick)Explanation
The frequency range of 1-3 KHz covers the characteristic of the 'Click' of the beater, which refers to the transient 'snap' sound produced by the kick drum. This frequency range captures the sharp attack and initial impact of the beater hitting the drumhead, creating a distinct clicking sound.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Cutting 200 -400 Hz will remove...?
- A.
The indistinct 'wooly' sound
- B.
The 'Click'
Correct Answer
A. The indistinct 'wooly' soundExplanation
Cutting frequencies in the range of 200-400 Hz will remove the indistinct 'wooly' sound. This range is known for producing muddiness and a lack of clarity in audio. By reducing these frequencies, the audio will become clearer and more defined, eliminating the wooly sound.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Where is the resonant 'depth' of a snare?
- A.
300 Hz
- B.
1 KHz
- C.
10 KHz
- D.
100 Hz
Correct Answer
D. 100 HzExplanation
The resonant 'depth' of a snare is typically found at a lower frequency range, around 100 Hz. This is because the depth refers to the low-end or bass frequencies that are produced by the snare drum. These lower frequencies contribute to the overall tone and character of the snare sound, providing a fuller and deeper resonance. Higher frequencies, such as 300 Hz, 1 KHz, and 10 KHz, are more associated with the attack and brightness of the snare sound rather than its depth.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Notch filtering in the mid range can be used to eliminate 'ringing' in a snare. What other dynamic effect could be utilised?
- A.
Flanger
- B.
Echo
- C.
Reverb
- D.
A 'Compressor'
- E.
A 'Noise Gate'
Correct Answer
E. A 'Noise Gate'Explanation
A 'Noise Gate' could be utilized as a dynamic effect in addition to notch filtering in the mid range to eliminate 'ringing' in a snare. A noise gate is a device that cuts off or reduces the volume of a signal below a certain threshold, effectively eliminating unwanted noise or ringing when the snare is not being played. This can help to clean up the sound and make it more focused and precise.Rate this question:
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- 23.
How do you improve the 'snap' or 'crack' of the snare sound?
- A.
Cut at 40 Hz
- B.
Boost at 350 -700 Hz
- C.
Cut around 7.5 KHz
- D.
Boost an EQ between about 7.5 - 10 KHz
Correct Answer
D. Boost an EQ between about 7.5 - 10 KHzExplanation
Boosting an EQ between about 7.5 - 10 KHz can improve the 'snap' or 'crack' of the snare sound. This frequency range is known to enhance the attack and presence of the snare drum, which can make it sound sharper and more defined. By boosting this range, the high-frequency content of the snare is emphasized, resulting in a more pronounced and crisp sound.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Cymbals are picked up by 'Over head' mics which reflect the over all sound of the drum kit. What frequency range does Alan suggest affects the balance of cymbals in the over heads?
- A.
2.5 - 5 KHz
- B.
800 Hz
- C.
40 Hz
- D.
8 - 10 Hz
- E.
8 - 10 KHz (around the 'air' range)
Correct Answer
E. 8 - 10 KHz (around the 'air' range)Explanation
Alan suggests that the frequency range of 8 - 10 KHz affects the balance of cymbals in the overheads. This range is referred to as the 'air' range, which means it captures the high-frequency components that give the cymbals their shimmering and bright sound. By picking up these frequencies, the overhead mics can accurately reflect the overall sound of the drum kit, including the cymbals.Rate this question:
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Mar 20, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Jan 01, 2010Quiz Created by
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