EQ is an abbreviation for the word equalization. It is pronounced ‘ee’ ‘cue’,
not ‘eck’. EQ is simply the adjustment of the bass, midrange, treble, etc. of a
particular instrument or voice. The simplest EQ adjustment is the one-knob Tone control that
most of us are accustomed to seeing. At the other end of the spectrum are so-called
graphical EQ controls where the audio spectrum is broken up into a number of discrete bands
and each band is individually adjustable. The
Trinity Sound Company website contains an
excellent high level discussion on EQ and
its Effects on Signals.
The Graphic EQ section of a
Mackie mixing console.
Monitor spill is sound originating from the on-stage monitors that unintentionally
spills off the stage and can be heard by those off-stage (e.g., the audience or congregation),
muddying the house mix. Note that there are situations where monitor sound intentionally makes
its way off-stage, but this sound is not called monitor spill—spill is unwanted sound
coming off the stage. Church Sound Check
has an excellent discussion of the issues surrounding
Stage Monitors and sound spill.
Platform is often used instead of stage, although the two terms are
synonymous. Stage is perceived by some to be too worldly, as it sends the message that a
show is being put on. The reality is that as soon as you have a platform you have spectators
and there are only spectators at a show. We really shouldn’t allow ourselves to be offended by
the word stage!
