Our take on the AudioControl EQL

AudioControl builds the EQL for one reason — to make your system sound better. This versatile 2-channel equalizer features 13 bands of adjustment for sonic fine tuning, along with level controls that allow you to match any receiver to any amplifier. And speaker-level inputs allow you to connect the EQL to just about any car stereo, even to factory amps up to 400 watts.

Equalization
Most car audio problems occur in the bass frequencies, so the EQL gives you six bands of equalization between 31.5 and 180 Hz, along with a rolloff filter that keeps ultra-low bass out of your subwoofer system. You also get seven bands of equalization at octave intervals from 250 Hz all the way up to 16,000 Hz.

Level matching for max performance
Once connected, the EQL makes it easy — turn up the input gain knobs until the indicator light flickers, adjust the output knobs until the light indicates the proper output, and you're all set. Balanced inputs reject noise caused by your vehicle's electrical system.

Highlights:

dual 13-band equalizers with level matching controls
gray steel chassis with gold-plated RCA jacks
top-mounted controls for easy adjustment
2-channel preamp inputs and outputs
speaker-level inputs
balanced inputs eliminate noise
33 Hz subsonic filter eliminates extreme low bass (rolloff point can be adjusted with optional module)
EQ points: 31.5, 45, 63, 90, 125, 180, 250 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000, 16000 Hz
frequency response: 10 to 20,000 Hz
signal-to-noise ratio: 110 dB at full output
maximum output level: 7.5 volts
fuse rating: 2 amps
size: 6-15/16"H x 8-15/16"W x 1-1/4"D
weight: 3 pounds
warranty: 5 years
Our 60-day money-back guarantee

Hands-on research from the Crutchfield Labs (what are the Labs?)

What’s in the box? | In-depth notes

Product Research

What's in the box?

Download owner's manual

Pre-amp Equalizer
Owner's manual
QC checklist
Product registration card

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Features

Dual Bandwidth Equalization: A total of 13 bands are available over two bandwidths, each band has separate dials for the left and right channels:

Full Octave EQ: A 7-band full octave equalizer controls frequencies above the bass range; the center frequencies are 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz, 4 kHz, 8 kHz, and 16 kHz. The rotary knobs adjust the signal +/-12 dB. There's a notch at each knob's center position so it's easy to return to the flat setting.
Half Octave EQ: A 6-band 1/2 octave equalizer controls the bass frequency range; the center frequencies are 31.5 Hz, 45 Hz, 63 Hz, 90 Hz, 125 kHz, and 180 kHz. The rotary knobs adjust the signal +/-12 dB. There's a notch at each knob's center position so it's easy to return to the flat setting.

Input Gain: The input gains for the left and right channels are set independently. The range is adjustable +/-18 dB to match the source output to the EQ input.

Output Level: The adjustable output levels allow you to increase the head unit's line voltage to the top of your amp's input range; up to 9.5 volts RMS/13 volts peak.

Balanced Inputs: Using the balanced differential input circuit cancels noise picked up in the transmission line between the EQL and the source unit.

Speaker Level Inputs: The speaker level inputs are compatible with most factory installed radios.

Terminal Blocks: The power/ground/remote terminal and the speaker level input terminals are removable; the wiring is attached to the block, then the block is plugged into the EQL. The terminal block will accommodate wire up to 12 gauge.

Subsonic Filter: The subsonic filter crossover point is 33 Hz and the crossover slope is 18 dB/octave. The crossover point is governed by a replaceable chip, so it can be modified.

Bypass: The bypass switch allows you to instantly bypass all the EQ adjustments.

Inputs and Outputs:

Line Input: stereo RCA, balanced
Speaker Input: removable stereo terminal block
Line Output: stereo RCA
Power Input: removable terminal block

Specifications:

Maximum Output: 9.5 volts RMS/13 volts peak
Frequency response: 10 Hz-20 kHz; ±1 dB
THD: 0.005%
S/N Ratio: 110dB

Review Summary

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1-1 of 1 items Sort Results By: Date Reviewed | Rating | Helpfulness

5 out of 5

Exactly what I needed

Written By SS Teacher, Plant City Fl on Thursday, April 05, 2012

Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?)

Crutchfield Customer Review

The reviewer purchased this item from us, verified by the email address on the order.

I had great individual components- JBL 6 1/2" components in front doors, sound deadening, Boston GTA 1005 5 channel amp, JL sub, but overall sound quality was lacking. I knew the problem was my factory head unit but didn't want to spend hundreds of dollars on connectors, bus units, etc., etc. and still lose my paid-for satellite radio subscription. The LC2i line-out converter worked wonders for the bass, but when I had the EQL installed...WOW. The amazing sound put a smile on every face at the shop. I had it professionally done so they used an O-scope and did the pink noise test, etc. and you would not believe how flat the curve looks. My system sounds fantastic and this EQ was the final piece of the puzzle. (Well I do need to upgrade to a JL 13W3, but that is in the future)

Pros:

Exceptional clarity and ruler flat response curves from a factory head unit. World class customer service from Audio Control (and Crutchfield)

Cons:

Added a tiny hum when turning off, but most won't even notice- I am a perfectionist.

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1-1 of 1 items

Learn more about Equalizers

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based on 29 ratings (11 comments)

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Your car can be a great place for music listening. Many commuters suffer for hours each day with inferior sound quality that they'd never tolerate from their systems at home. Others assemble...

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based on 12 ratings (2 comments)

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Crutchfield Writing Team

11/17/2011

based on 34 ratings (8 comments)

Q: What will an equalizer do for me? Where do I mount an equalizer? What's a spectrum analyzer and do I need one? Since I installed my EQ, my receiver's fader control won't work. Why not? Plus more...

Way cool interactive frequency chart

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8/17/2009

based on 3 ratings (2 comments)

While doing some research, I stumbled across something remarkable that I just have to share. It's an interactive frequency chart published by the Independent Recording Network. ...

Visit our Learning Center to learn more about Equalizers

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Crutchfield - North America's electronics authority since 1974

AudioControl EQL

Trunk-mount 2-channel equalizer with level matching

Item# 161EQLG offer details

Review Summary

By buying this product you'll earn up to 230 Rewards points.

Our take on the AudioControl EQL

Highlights:

Hands-on research from the Crutchfield Labs (what are the Labs?)

Product Research

Our Product Research Team

Features

Product Reviews

Review Summary

Average Customer Review:

Exactly what I needed

Learn more about Equalizers

Learn more about Equalizers

How to Choose an Equalizer

Jeff's Tips for Getting Maximum Sound Quality in Your Car

Installing An Equalizer

Equalizers FAQ

Way cool interactive frequency chart

Accessories

Accessories we recommend

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Speaker Wire

Installation Tools

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