Unabashed Sales Pitch

Let's break from the strictly informative content, and we at Wholegrain will share why DynPEQ makes us excited to be behind it. Consider this a subjectivity alert.

From many years of listening to parametric equalization and dynamics processing by themselves, we have experienced firsthand why they are used with 'extreme prejudice'. The fatigue caused by dynamics pumping is well-known to the community. We now believe that the pumping phenomena is in part due to dynamics processing being applied to the entire spectrum. So, while dynamics processing is necessary in audio mastering, the engineer is understandably reluctant to apply it. At the same time, while parametric equalization makes valuable alterations to the sonic environment, it does little to add or lessen punch when needed.

DynPEQ has given us the impression that dynamics processing is more applicable when restricted to the parts of the audio spectrum where it can offer the most help. We have found that many recordings are centric to the lead instruments and vocals, that the dynamics are usually fine in that band, and that making even small dynamic changes outside of the lead band can make a significant difference with less to much less pumping.

We believe that DynPEQ can add significant finishing touches to acoustic ensemble recordings, hence the names Trio and Quartet. At the same time, we try not to rely on the preset bands in the toolbox and tinker with the many parameter settings. We think DynPEQ can open up, or perhaps re-open, your aural world, where you can discover adjustments that are uniquely your own.

Anyway, that is how our ears hear it. Please feel free to take a spin with Trio and/or Quartet and see if you agree with us.