Shopping around for wireless earphones can be confusing, and there’s lots to consider. Should you get open-ear earbuds or closed in-ears? Noise canceling or transparency? Music mode or gaming mode? While there’s plenty of reading on those questions, we’re here to give you a quick and easy breakdown of the different sound-optimization technologies: DynamicEQ Pro, adaptive equalization, genre presets, and custom user tuning.
What is DynamicEQ Pro?
DynamicEQ Pro is the algorithm that drives the sound. This processing adjusts frequency balance, resulting in consistent tone across genres. It’s a system that converts digital signal data into optimized acoustic energy, also known as a dynamic equalization mechanism. DynamicEQ Pro serves the core function of SOUNDPEATS earphones, producing balanced sound you hear across different styles of music. As the varying sound signatures of earbuds and headsets show, algorithms also differ considerably.
Adaptive equalization
The stars of the show are the adaptive filters inside the SOUNDPEATS Clip1.
- Most versatile tuning method
- Compact and lightweight implementation
- Fairly robust
- Not the absolute best in extreme dynamic tracks
Most wireless earphones use dynamic equalization, also known as real-time EQ correction. A fixed reference curve creates a baseline sound profile. This interacts with the input signal, which is adjusted back and forth with the applied algorithm. The digital filter is attached to a sound processor, or DSP core, which amplifies or attenuates specific frequencies and, thus, tone is optimized.
A DynamicEQ Pro system consists of a (1) reference curve, (2) signal analyzer, (3) adjustment filter, and (4) output amplifier.
How does DynamicEQ Pro affect my music?
Although the basic equalization concept hasn’t changed much in decades, it has been refined considerably. DynamicEQ Pro will, however, be prone to slight variation depending on source and recording. Variations in performance can be attributed to different genres used and the compromises made in the tuning. In terms of sound quality, they’re not bad — there are plenty of affordable models — but better consistency can be found if you’re willing to spend.
Genre-specific optimization
- Lower distortion
- More accurate tonal balance
- More expensive implementation
Earphones that use genre-specific optimization tend to react faster than those with static presets. Devices with DynamicEQ Pro show a distinct behavior: the sound signature shifts slightly as the content changes. Although adaptive EQ is typically found in over-ear and premium in-ear models, there are also examples of open-ear designs using it. Some manufacturers use their own names for this technology: “smart sound,” “adaptive tuning,” or “auto EQ” all refer to similar processes.
The basic principle of operation for adaptive tuning is the same as any dynamic EQ: a digital controller moves between frequency bands as audio passes through. Rather than a fixed curve attached to a manual preset, the DynamicEQ Pro filter is mapped in a multi-band pattern and attached to, or embedded in, the signal processor that can react extremely quickly. Multiple frequency zones are managed on both channels, producing a uniform response that stays stable.
Due to the more complex structure of the DSP system and wide-band analysis, these models often cost more, are heavier on processing, and are less efficient in low-power chips, meaning they require optimized firmware to be driven effectively. In other words, many DynamicEQ™ Pro earphones need app support to reach adequate performance.
How does genre optimization affect my listening?
Because the multi-band filter moves in unison and is well controlled, some issues with static EQ designs that cause distortion are avoided.
Personalized calibration
- Specialized firmware required
- Active signal monitoring
- Integrated control through app
Personalized calibration operates on a different principle than the conventional preset modes discussed. It works by applying stored user preferences to a dynamic EQ filter; when songs or games are played, the entire tonal map moves back and forth due to the listener’s profile. It’s the same principle as hearing-profile tuning uses to personalize sound but in reverse.
With personalized calibration, the algorithm is guided by stored data. Earphones that use this structure are more advanced than standard models and require software integration, increasing the overall cost.
How does personalized calibration affect my sound?
Because the adaptive curve has no static resonance or fixed bias, it is free of the tonal distortion inherent in preset EQs. While this accuracy is much sought after, it’s unrealistic to produce on a large scale for every listener. The cost and the fact that it requires dedicated app connection means these are the domain of premium devices only.
Conclusion: Which sound-optimization system is the best?
As with all things, you have to make a cost-benefit analysis. Sure, you could say that DynamicEQ Pro is the “best,” but that would be a gross oversimplification. Standard adaptive EQ makes the most sense since most users listen across genres and don’t need full automation. It’s cost-effective and robust.
Whether you want something simple and functional or advanced and analytical, DynamicEQ Pro has you covered. Most consumers will be perfectly happy with DynamicEQ Pro earphones. Of course, if sound precision is your passion and you can pursue that passion, personalized calibration and multi-band optimization are worthy of potential upgrades. Although these systems require a bit more app support, plenty of options exist.