Parametric Equalizer...

So far I've been using a graphic eq on my pc with only 10 different frequency ranges. Yeah, it's pretty crappy... Also, on my eq it's not possible to change the eq settings while playing a sample(s). I have to change the settings and then apply the changes to the sample(s) I want to change. This makes the process of finding the right eq settings very irritating and time-consuming!

I want to be able to play a sample or an entire beat while messing around with the eq.
Are there any cheap parametric eqs that let me do this? Also, do parametric eqs come as hardware? If so, are they better than software eqs?

better is a matter of how you like to work. personally i dont like dragging a mouse, cause i end up using my eyes instead of my ears.

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/EQ3B/

http://www.fullcompass.com/Products/pages/SKU--26073/

get one while you can.

Thanks for the links, skawala.

Where would I "place" an eq like one of these in a set-up consisting of a pc (where I record most of my music), mpc1000, mixer and monitors? In terms of connecting wires and stuff...
I really don't know these things, so help would be appreciated.

well right about now, i dont a wha kinda config u a push zeeeen. cause me nuh know a wha u a use dede de computa fah, ya ova. but a basic ting. i normally have dem on a insert channel (special insert cables needed, thts the name). or on a bus wid de mixa. me personally normally jus use de comps as a tape deck zeeen. so my output recorded tracks come from de computa via multiple output sound card carrrd then into mixa inputs where i do all me processing from there. if u drop some mo info on yu configuration the me can help ya mo!!!

bless.

tapco makes a nice dual 31 band graphic EQ for $160 :the Tweeq T-231

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Tweeq/

it's the outboard that i'm shooting for next paycheck!

Yeah, I pretty much use my computer as a "tape deck" also. The computer output goes to my mixer which is hooked up to monitors...

So, what you're saying is that you connect the eq to the mixer somehow?

yeah pretty, much star. the some how connection is via insert points on the mixa, or by the bus. an insert cable for the insert inputs, and standard 1/4 cables for the bus. depending on the type of mixer tht you have you can sum all your drums onto a stereo channel and do "over all processing " from there, and via inserts where you actually tweak a specific channel.

Because you record into the PC I would suggest software for a couple of reasons. One, it would be cheaper, two, if you record through a hardware eq you are stuck with what you've done.

You didn't mention what program you're using on the PC but you might want to look into getting a program like Sound Forge or WaveLab, they both have parametric eq's that you can preview and adjust while the track is playing. If you already have an editor then there are a ton of parametric eq plug ins available.