More sophisticated graphic equalizers filter the audio into anywhere from five to 16 and even to 31 bands centered around a specific frequency. Raising or lowering these wide frequency bands can help a little bit, but it’s kind of like trying to sign your name with a crayon. The equalizer of budget car stereo receivers, including some factory stock units, offer only two or three frequency bands covering unspecified frequencies: bass, treble, and sometimes mid-range. One way or another, the EQ offers a greater degree of volume control to help get a car’s best sound setting. Or it might reduce the power of higher frequencies, to limit distorted or shrill treble when you’re playing music at higher volumes. It might boost the volume of the lower frequencies, for example, to add more bass to your car stereo’s mix. In simple terms, an audio equalizer raises or lowers the volume of specific frequency ranges of the audio signal going to your speakers. Whether you select a car stereo system for best quality or value, correctly adjusting the equalizer can get the best performance from your discreet car speakers, and overcome natural drop offs created by the shape of your vehicle’s cabin. Finding the best sound setting for a car equalizer is an often overlooked part of upgrading your car's audio and entertainment system.
