How to Use the Equalizer in VLC Media Player

The VLC equalizer tool allows you to control the output level of specific frequency bands, ranging from 60 hertz to 16 kilohertz. This guide covers how to use EQ presets and manually configure the equalizer with your preferred settings. The VLC media player is available for most desktop and mobile platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

Enabling the Equalizer and Using Presets

The VLC equalizer is disabled by default. To activate the equalizer and use the built-in presets, do the following:

1. From the menu bar, select Window, then choose Audio Effects.

   In some versions of VLS, you may have to select the Tools menu tab and then choose Effects and Filters.

   Alternatively, press and hold CTRL+E to open the Audio Effects window.

2. On the Equalizer tab in the Audio Effects window, click the checkbox next to the Enable option.

3. To use a preset, click the drop-down menu located on the right side of the equalizer screen. VLC Media Player has a solid selection of presets that cover many popular genres. There are also a few specific settings such as Full Bass, Headphones, and Large Hall.

4. Now that you've chosen a preset, play a song so you can hear what it sounds like. Play a song from one of your playlists or click Media > Open File and choose one.

5. As the song plays, you can change presets on the fly to evaluate the effect each preset has on your music.

6. If you want to tweak a preset, use the slider bars on each frequency band. If, for example, you want to boost the bass, adjust the low-frequency bands on the left side of the interface screen. To change how high-frequency sounds sound, adjust the sliders on the right side of the EQ tool.

7. When you are happy with a preset, select the Close button.