The Yuer YF-40 Ten Band EQ is a graphic equaliser with ten frequency bands, built into a floor effects pedal. The processing bandwidth spans from 32.5Hz to 16kHz, covering the entire musically relevant frequency range. The operating frequencies follow the customary octave configuration of graphic EQs, meaning that the next higher frequency is always double the frequency of the band below. Ideal for processing the sound of electric guitars and electric basses, the Yuer YF-40 Ten Band EQ's broad frequency range also permits the processing of many other mono signals, such as synthesizers or other monophonic signal sources. The sliders feature a distinct mid-point detent and are illuminated, meaning that a quick glance is all that is needed to read the Yuer YF-40 Ten Band EQ – even on the darkest stages.
True to the nature of a graphic EQ, the frequency bands of the Yuer YF-40 Ten Band EQ are adjusted via ten sliders. The advantage over a parametric EQ with potentiometers is the clear visual feedback; the sliders essentially display the configured EQ frequency curve, meaning that "what you see is what you get". Each frequency band can be increased or reduced by twelve decibels. Any volume differences resulting from EQ processing can be offset by using the master volume control. The volume control can also be used to boost the processed signal relative to the bypass signal – perfect as a solo boost. When bypass is activated, the signal runs directly from the input jack to the output jack without passing through any electronic component in the Yuer YF-40 Ten Band EQ. Known technically as true bypass, this ensures that the signal in bypass remains completely uncoloured.
Housed in a sturdy yet surprisingly compact aluminium casing measuring just 10 x 7 x 5cm, the Yuer YF-40 Ten Band EQ occupies less pedalboard space than comparable EQ pedals supplied by competitors. With a power consumption of only 30mA, it is indeed energy-efficient, although battery operation is not possible on account of its compact design. The configuration of the sliders graphically represents the resulting frequency response, allowing for quick and intuitive sound adjustment. Professionals will instantly know which slider to tweak to achieve the desired tone, while beginners are free to experiment – and anyone wanting to reset after a wild sound experiment will be pleased to know that all sliders snap back with a distinct detent at the zero position.
Yuer is a brand that belongs to W-Music Distribution and is based in Neukirchen, in the German state of Saxony. Initially a manufacturer of premium basses, the company now offers an extensive range of musical equipment for recording projects and live performances, all of which delivers excellent quality at affordable prices. Yuer puts many years of experience into the development of its products, which also integrate numerous innovations and include audio interfaces, rechargeable power supplies, effect pedals, and wireless systems as well as portable guitar and bass amplifiers which also allow external playback via Bluetooth. The company also places great value on innovative and self-explanatory operation and the fulfilment of European safety standards.
The Yuer YF-40 Ten Band EQ allows players to shape their sound in two distinct ways: They can "clean up" the sound by removing unwanted tonal components, or "bend" the overall sound in a particular direction, and they can also take advantage of up to 12dB of boost when doing the latter. The Yuer YF-40 EQ is ideal for helping an electric guitar's solo tone to cut through the mix: Players simply crank up the mids and experiment to find exactly the right frequency (starting between 500Hz and 4kHz) à la Eric Clapton! Bassists can craft the coveted "bathtub sound" for slap passages with the Yuer YF-40 Ten Band EQ by bringing in the bass, cutting the mids, and boosting the highs. To clean up, players can reduce any interfering frequencies by running the Yuer YF-40 Ten Band EQ into their amp's FX loop and selectively filtering out booming bass frequencies, particularly in the 125 to 500Hz range, where action is often required.