Use the Linear Phase EQ Analyzer in MainStage

The Analyzer uses a mathematical process called a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) to provide a real-time curve of all frequency components in the incoming signal. This is superimposed over any EQ curves you have set. The Analyzer curve uses the same scale as the EQ curves, making it easy to recognize important frequencies in the incoming audio. This also simplifies the task of setting EQ curves to raise or lower the levels of frequencies or frequency ranges.

The bands derived from FFT analysis are scaled logarithmically—there are more bands in higher octaves than in lower octaves.

As soon as the Analyzer is activated, you can change the display scaling from the default dynamic range of 60 dB. Drag vertically on the scale to the right of the graphic display to set the maximum value to anywhere between +20 dB and −80 dB. The Analyzer display is always dB-linear. There are several additional Analyzer parameters in the Linear Phase EQ shortcut menus and the extended parameters.

Here are the steps:

• Click the Analyzer button, then play the project to view changes to the frequency curve. This can help you to decide which frequencies to boost or cut.

• While the project plays, a real-time frequency curve for the track appears in the EQ display (when the Analyzer is set to Post EQ), showing which frequencies are louder or softer. You can adjust bands in the EQ display while watching changes to the frequency curve.

  Note: Be sure to turn off the Analyzer when you’re not using it. When the EQ window is visible, the Analyzer uses additional processing power. High Analyzer resolutions also require significantly more processing power. High resolution is necessary when attempting to accurately analyze very low bass frequencies, for example.