A spectrum analyzer can be a powerful tool that can be used to well-tune several audio signals. There are a number of uses for a spectrum equalizer. One important function of the spectrum equalizer can be used to try and check the response of a tape recorder. This equipment can even help identify the minute rumble frequencies in an air conditioner. This data can be used to filter out noise in recording studios or improve sound quality while recording. The market for such gadgets is becoming popular as ever.

There is a high price to pay for owning a commercial spectrum analyzer. Such an ownership presents a major problem and its high price may not be that affordable for some people. LED or (Light Emitting Diode) versions of spectrum equalizers may have cost many hundreds of dollars today, but it seems to be the most widely used unit.

A high quality spectrum equalizer model can also run into thousands. Such spectrum equalizers paved the way for producing high quality audio. And the valuable component is here to stay to provide consumers with great quality sound as well as more accurate signal calibration.

Although a real-time spectrum analyzer is more convenient and easy to use because of its simultaneous display of all frequency bands, an older manually swept model is no less professional and effective and its use follows well-established practice. In fact, a continuous sweep can detect narrow peaks and dips, which would be ignored by a real-time unit.

For all of the filter components on a spectrum equalizer, it is important to use the one with the closest tolerance available. Choosing One-percent metal film resistors, which are not only the best in the market, but also because of their accuracy and for their reduced sensitivity to temperature. In the absence of the metal film, polycarbonate or Mylar capacitors and other components are the best choice for the actual filter stages. Supplied bypass disk capacitors are not only sufficient for use but are also preferred, since they possess the least series inductance.

There are also several Tubular Types, though generally considered the more temperature stable component. They are constructed of long strips of foil which when rolled up for compactness become inductive thus reducing their effectiveness at high frequencies. Besides being able to easily vary and change the audio quality and tune to its regarded frequency, a state-variable filter can also provide

Scientists and researchers alike use the machine to measure radio frequencies. This machine examines the composition of electrical, acoustic or optical waveforms by measuring the different elements of the power spectrum.

It is also used in creating, designing, testing and maintaining radio frequency circuitry and equipment. This machine is called a spectrum analyzer. This piece of equipment is vital for studies involving signals like harmonics and noise. It is used to determine and monitor if a particular signal conforms to the given standards.

Spectrum analyzers measure the signals by looking at the frequency. The equipment is a little complex, but it is a very useful tool to gather information about frequencies or signals. When you use a spectrum analyzer, you're not just measuring the signals but you are measuring their amplitude and frequency. The device displays the amplitude on the vertical scale while the frequency is shown on a horizontal scale.

Most of the spectrum analyzers you see are heterodyne types of spectrum analyzers which mean they serve the basic purpose of scanning frequencies hence they are also called scanning spectrum analyzers. A heterodyne type of analyzer is basically a very sensitive radio receiver that selectively pick-ups frequencies.

When purchasing a spectrum analyzer you need to distinguish first between an analog type and a digital one. In an analog spectrum analyzer the middle frequencies are tuned in automatically. This means the machine will automatically measure and analyze the complete range of frequencies that it was originally programmed to do. The analog types are equipped with a variable bandpass filter to do its job. Unlike analog, digital spectrum analyzers incorporate the Fast Fourier transform or FFT. FFT is a mathematical process wherein the waveform is transformed into parts of the frequency spectrum. Because the waveform is broken down into components and digitized, it is easier for a computer to make precise measurements, compute the transformations, and process the audio information.

Once you figure out which kind of spectrum analyzer you need, you can now look at specialty stores that sell such sensitive equipments. But because of the sensitivity of the machine, it may not be that great of an idea to buy a used model. Although, you can find in the market used and cheaper spectrum analyzers, it's not advisable to buy one especially if you don't know the reputation of the store selling them. Accuracy might be way off and the components may already be worn out.