SW1000XG EQ Tweak

What is SW1000XG EQTweak?

The SW1000XG EQTweak utility is a very small application that adjusts the master EQ settings of the SW1000XG soundcard. Ideally, the application should be put in your Windows startup folder so that it runs automatically each time the PC is started. However, it can be run at any time. Remember that if any subsequent MIDI application or song sends an XG reset message, the EQ settings will be returned to their defaults.

Why do I need it ?

It has been found that the output of the SW1000XG has a frequency response that is far from flat! Some people find this gives the card a 'warm' sound. SW1000XG EQTweak adjusts the card's own five band 'Multi-EQ' settings to considerably improve the frequency response. By using SW1000XG EQTweak in your startup folder, the card will always sound at its best for games and general purpose use, without needing to load a sequencer or other MIDI application to adjust the EQ.

What changes does it make?

The changes are those published in the December 2002 edition of Sound On Sound magazine, in Martin Walker's excellent PC Notes article. The required changes are the result of careful analysis of the frequency response, and are: Band 2 +1dB; Band 3 +1dB; Band 4 +2dB; Band 4 Q=0.4.

How does it do it ?

SW1000XG EQTweak scans the MIDI ports on your PC until it finds the 'SW1000XG #1 Synthesizer' port. It then sends four sysex strings to adjust the EQ. That's it! There are no settings to make, and the application only appears for approximately one second. If the port cannot be found (or is not available for some reason), a message will be displayed in place of the list of EQ changes, and the application will terminate.

What platforms are supported?

SW1000XG EQTweak has been tested on Windows98SE and Windows XP.  Not sure about Vista; it messes up most things so it probably shafts this simple little application too :-)