The TempoTec V1 firmware V1.2 PEQ (Parametric EQ) update introduces three distinct filter types. LowShelf and HighShelf are designed for broad tonal shaping of low and high frequencies, while Peaking provides surgical precision for specific frequency points.

Quick Mode Reference

Parameter & Usage Guide

• LowShelf

  Definition: A shelf filter that boosts or cuts everything below the selected frequency. It’s the go-to for changing the overall "weight" of the sound.

  • Frequency (Cutoff): Typically 60–200 Hz.
  • 80 Hz: Adds "thump" to kick drums and bass guitars.
  • 100–120 Hz: Controls room rumble or low-end hum.
  • Gain: -9 to +9 dB.
  • Tip: Keep boosts within ±3 dB. Lower the Pre AMP if stacking multiple boosts to maintain headroom.
  • Pro Tip: Use a low Q (wide) for a natural, warm tilt.

• Peaking (Bell Filter)

  Definition: The most versatile EQ type. It boosts or cuts a specific band centered around a frequency. The Q value determines the width of the "bell."

  • Q (Bandwidth):
  • Low Q (0.7–1.4): Broad strokes; natural tonal shaping.
  • Mid Q (1.4–3.0): General corrective EQ.
  • High Q (3.0–10+): "Surgical" mode for removing narrow spikes (e.g., 60Hz hum).
  • Usage:
  • Vocal Muddiness: 300 Hz, Q=1.0, Gain=-3 dB.
  • Sibilance (Harsh 'S' sounds): 6–8 kHz, Q=2.5, Gain=-3 to -4 dB.
  • Vocal Presence: 1–3 kHz, Q=1.5, Gain=+2 dB.

• HighShelf
  

  Definition: The mirror image of the LowShelf. It affects all frequencies above the selected cutoff point.

  • Frequency (Cutoff): Typically 2–12 kHz.
  • 2–4 kHz: Enhances vocal/instrument definition.
  • 8–12 kHz: Adds "air," "shimmer," and detail extension.
  • Usage:
  • Add Airiness: 8–10 kHz, Gain: +2 dB.
  • Tame Hiss: 10–12 kHz, Gain:  -3 dB.

Best Practices & Pitfalls

1. Macro to Micro: Use Shelves first to set the general tonal balance, then use Peaking for fine-tuning.
2. Avoid "The Sizzle": Do not over-push the HighShelf (> +3 dB), as it quickly becomes fatiguing and piercing.
3. Headroom is King: If any Gain is positive (+), set Pre AMP to -3 ~ -6 dB to avoid digital clipping (distorted "crackling").
4. Less is More: EQ boosts over +3 dB often sound unnatural. Try cutting the opposing frequencies instead.

Rapid Setup Examples

• Bass Head Boost: LowShelf, 80 Hz, Gain +3 dB, Slope 12dB/oct.
• Vocal Clarity Pro: Peaking, 2.5 kHz, Q=1.5, Gain +2 dB; HighShelf, 6 kHz, Gain +1.5 dB.
• Room Rumble Killer: LowShelf, 120 Hz, Gain -3 dB, Slope 24dB/oct.