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Table of Contents
Boss Micro Studio Series Vol.1, 1986:
A 2-band Parametric Equalizer That’s a Key Performer When Creating Sounds
The RPQ-10 is a 2-band equalizer with a built in preamplifier. Being of the parametric type, the center frequency in each of the two bands, LOW (40Hz – 1kHz) and HIGH (600Hz – 15kHz), may be boosted or cut (up to +/-15dB) as desired, along with full Q (frequency bandwidth) control. Compared to a graphic equalizer which mainly emphasizes tonal compensation, the RPQ-10 makes for much more impressive and dedicated sound creations. The slide controls are all LED-equipped for instant visual confirmation of settings, even on dark stages. A built-in MIC INPUT jack makes provision for directly connecting a microphone to the RPQ-10, adding a lot of flexibility to vocal effects and for preventing howling feedback. All this is done with superb sound quality, thanks to the strict selection and control procedures Boss maintains for all its products, giving you the benefits of its continuing search for sonic excellence.
CONTROLS
- INPUT LEVEL:
For adjusting the level of the signal coming into the RPQ-10. It should normally be set to the highest setting possible before the OVERLOAD indicator flashes. - FREQ (HIGH, LOW):
These sliders will let you select the center frequency range you wish to boost/cut. - Q (HIGH, LOW):
These sliders controls the bandwidth of the frequency you wish to boost/cut.”A” is for sharp, narrow equalizing at the predetermined frequency point while setting the slider toward “SX.’ will provide a broad-ranging boost/cut which acts like a convetional tone control. - LEVEL:
For selecting the amount of desired boost/cut by +/- 15dB. - TOTAL LEVEL:
To compensate for differences in level between the pre- and post-equalized signal. This slider has a built-in LED which flashes to indicate overload on the equalized signal.
Point Of Performance
The 2-band (HIGH and LOW) configuration of the RPQ-10 Parametric Equalizer proves it to be an extremely useful unit when you want to create wide-ranging tonal modifications. Fig. 1 shows a setting for effectively using this equalizer. Set the Q and LEVEL controls to maximum settings to bring about a radical change of frequency response. Next, while playing an instrument, adjust the FREQUENCY control up and down to locate the optimum equalizing point while listening to the changes in tonal response. Lastly, adjust the Q and LEVEL controls for completing the setting. In this way, it’s simple to emphasize the attack of a guitar or bass, and is also good for adding a metallic touch to an electric piano sound. For line recording purposes, the preamplifier section of the RPQ-10 plays an important role. In Fig. 2, we have a notch filter setting which is most effective in curbing feedback on vocals. Tonal characteristics retain their original properties because the Q control allows very sharp or narrow cuts to be made.
Trick & Shock
The RPQ-10 is flexible enough to create wow or phaser effects. Set all the LOW BAND slide controls at their center positions. Next you increase the Q and LEVEL settings to the maximum, and slide the FREQUENCY control up and down in time with the music being played. The result? Wow effects. Now, with the same setting, lower the LEVEL controls. You can now create light phaser effects. It’s an especially useful trick when processing sound that’s already recorded.
