Enter the bandwidth and center frequency into the calculator to determine the Q factor of an equalizer (EQ) band. The Q factor is a measure of how selective the EQ is in affecting a range of frequencies.
Eq Q Factor Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the Q factor of an EQ band:
Q = f_c / BW
Variables:
- Q is the Q factor of the EQ band
- f_c is the center frequency (Hz)
- BW is the bandwidth (Hz)
To calculate the Q factor, divide the center frequency by the bandwidth of the EQ band.
What is a Q Factor?
The Q factor, or quality factor, is a dimensionless parameter that describes how underdamped an oscillator or resonator is, and characterizes a resonator’s bandwidth relative to its center frequency. Higher Q factors indicate a narrower bandwidth, with a more selective and less damped resonator. In audio equalization, a higher Q factor means that the EQ will affect a smaller range of frequencies around the center frequency, allowing for more precise control over the sound.
How to Calculate Q Factor?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Q Factor of an EQ band.
- First, determine the center frequency (f_c) of the EQ band in hertz (Hz).
- Next, determine the bandwidth (BW) of the EQ band in hertz (Hz).
- Use the formula Q = f_c / BW to calculate the Q factor.
- Finally, enter the values into the calculator above to verify the result.
Example Problem:
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Center frequency (f_c) = 1000 Hz
Bandwidth (BW) = 200 Hz
