The Matrix engine processes EQ at the original native source rate. The single exception occurs during DSD-to-PCM conversions, where the processing runs at 1/16th of the DSD rate to optimize system resources.
| Setting | Recommendation | Why | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Check "Enable limiter" | Prevents digital clipping after EQ boosts. | | Pipeline Bit Depth | Keep at Default (auto) | Reduces dithering artifacts. | | Oversampling | Run EQ before upsampling | HQPlayer does this automatically (Matrix -> Oversampling). | hqplayer equalizer
), causing clipping, HQPlayer permits integrated pre-amplifier gain attenuation right inside the routing path. The Matrix engine processes EQ at the original
This is where HQPlayer truly shines. You can run a heavy parametric EQ to fix a headphone's 5kHz dip while simultaneously upsampling the entire signal from 44.1kHz CD quality to DSD256. The result is an audio signal that is both frequency-corrected and free from the harshness of your DAC's internal filters. | | Pipeline Bit Depth | Keep at
The Matrix Pipeline is the central hub for all DSP in HQPlayer. This is where you will spend most of your time configuring your sound. You can save any configuration as a "profile" and switch between different profiles on the fly using HQPlayer Client while music is still playing, which is a convenient feature for A/B testing different EQ settings.
A: Phase distortion is most audible as a loss of "snap" on transients and a blurring of stereo imaging and soundstage depth. By using linear-phase filters, you ensure that the timing relationships between frequencies are preserved, which contributes to a more precise, holographic soundstage.
[Measurement Mic] ---> [REW Software] ---> [Generate WAV Impulse] | v [DAC / Speakers] <--- [HQPlayer Engine] <--- [Load WAV into Matrix] The Workflow: