Ever played a song on Spotify and felt something sounded a bit off? Maybe the bass feels weak, or the vocals are harder to hear than they should be. Spotify includes a built-in equalizer that lets you fine-tune how your music or podcasts sound by adjusting bass, treble, and other frequencies. You can choose from ready-made presets or make manual controls, and even small changes can noticeably improve the overall sound.
The Spotify equalizer is available on both mobile and desktop and can be found under Settings > Playback > Equalizer in the app. Both Premium and free users can access this feature, though Web Player users may need to switch to the desktop or mobile app to use it.
So why spend time on the equalizer? Using it is about more than just turning it on or off. It is about finding the best equalizer settings for your music (or podcast) and listening setup. In some cases, users may also turn to third-party equalizer apps for extra control. That is why the Spotify equalizer is worth a closer look and a bit of experimentation.
- Equalizer settings are saved on each device, not your Spotify account.
- Changes on one device do not apply to others.
- Equalizer settings do not work when using Spotify Connect.
- Use the speaker or device's own sound settings instead.
- Presets are an easy way to improve music and podcast sound.
- Different presets suit different listening styles.
- The Spotify Web Player does not support the equalizer.
Part 1. How to Enable or Disable Spotify Equalizer on iPhone
Many people start with their iPhone and wonder where the EQ is. Open the Spotify app, go to your Profile > Settings & Privacy > Playback > Equalizer, and you'll find it. You can switch it on or off, apply it to podcasts, try a preset, or adjust bass, mids, and treble manually. You'll hear the changes immediately as your music or podcast plays, which makes it easy to test different settings. Keep in mind, these changes only stick on that iPhone. If you switch to another device, you'll need to set it up there too.
Step 1 Open the Spotify app on your iPhone and tap your profile picture in the top-right corner.
Step 2 Scroll down and tap Settings & Privacy to open the settings.
Step 3 Tap Playback to see playback options.
Step 4 Tap Equalizer. If it's off, toggle it on.
Step 5 Scroll through the presets like Acoustic, Bass Booster, Bass Reducer, Classical, Dance, Deep, or Electronic, and tap one to apply it.
Step 6 To adjust manually, drag the sliders up or down for bass, mids, or treble until it sounds right.
Step 7 Decide if you want the EQ applied to podcasts. Look for Also apply to podcasts and switch it on or off.
Step 8 There's no Save button. Just exit settings, go back to Spotify, and play music to hear the difference. Try presets or sliders until it sounds good.
Step 9 To turn off the EQ, go back to Settings & Privacy > Playback > Equalizer and toggle it off.
Part 2. How to Enable or Disable Spotify Equalizer on Android
Android is a little different because some phones, like Samsung devices, have a system-wide EQ that affects all apps. On Spotify, you can access it via Settings > Playback > Equalizer, which redirects to your phone's system audio settings. That means any changes you make can affect not just Spotify, but also videos, other music apps, and podcasts. If you want more control over Spotify alone, third-party EQ apps (covered in Part 5) are a solid option. They let you adjust Spotify music and podcasts without affecting other apps, offering more precise control.
Step 1 Open Spotify and tap your profile picture in the top-right corner.
Step 2 Tap Settings & Privacy from the menu.
Step 3 Tap Playback, then Equalizer. This opens your phone's sound settings. You may see options like Dolby Atmos, Samsung Sound, or other system audio controls.
Step 4 Make sure the EQ is on in your device settings. Pick a preset or adjust the sliders manually. Changes will affect all audio apps, not just Spotify.
Step 5 To turn off the EQ, either switch it off in your device settings or select the Flat preset.
Part 3. How to Access Spotify Equalizer on Windows and Mac
Desktop users finally have an EQ in Spotify. In the desktop app, you can find it in Settings > Playback > Equalizer, where you'll see presets or custom sliders. Though there's no separate "apply to podcasts" toggle on mobile, the EQ works for both music and podcasts on desktop, so any changes affect all playback in the app.
Step 1 Open Spotify on your computer and click your profile icon in the top-right corner.
Step 2 Click Settings from the drop-down menu.
Step 3 Scroll to Playback and find the Equalizer option. Turn it on if it's off.
Step 4 Click the drop-down next to Presets to see options like Flat, Acoustic, Bass Booster, Classical, Electronic, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Latin, R&B, Rock, and more. Click the one you want.
Step 5 To customize sound, drag the sliders for bass, mids, and treble. You can hear changes immediately. Click Reset if you want to go back.
Step 6 When done, leave the EQ on if you like it.
Step 7 To turn off the EQ, go back to the Equalizer option and toggle it off.
Part 4. How to Get Spotify Equalizer on Web Player
Web Player users often ask why they can't see the same EQ as on mobile or desktop. That's because the Web Player doesn't include a built-in EQ. You'll need to rely on your computer's native sound settings, system-wide tools, or browser extensions. On Windows, try Windows Sound Settings or Equalizer APO. On Mac, apps like eqMac provide similar control. It's not as seamless as the desktop app, but it works.
Remember, the Web Player is a simpler, browser-based version, so features like crossfade or EQ are limited. For the full EQ experience, the dedicated desktop app is still the best option.
Part 5. How to Use Spotify Equalizer (Best Spotify EQ Settings)
Using the EQ is more than just turning it on. Start with a preset for a quick improvement, then adjust manually to get the sound you like. For podcasts, boosting mid-range frequencies makes voices clearer. For music, adjusting bass or treble can add punch or clarity.
1. Flat
This setting keeps everything neutral. It doesn't change the sound, so it's perfect if you want the audio just as it is.
2. Bass Boost:
If you like deeper bass, this setting boosts the low frequencies. Try adjusting the sliders at 60 Hz and 125 Hz for a stronger bass.
3. Treble Boost:
This setting makes the high frequencies clearer and sharper. You can adjust the sliders around 4 kHz and 8 kHz for more detail in the sound.
4. Vocal Booster:
If you want vocals to stand out more, this setting boosts mid-range frequencies. Try adjusting sliders at 1 kHz and 2 kHz to bring vocals to the front.
Best Equalizer Settings for Different Music Genres:
Here are a few suggested equalizer settings for various genres, helping you get the best sound possible no matter what you're listening to.
For Bass-Heavy Music (Hip-Hop, EDM, Rock):
- Boost 60 Hz (+6 dB to +12 dB) for deep bass.
- Slightly boost 150 Hz (+3 dB to +6 dB) for warmth.
- Keep 400 Hz neutral to avoid muddiness.
- Reduce 1 kHz (-2 dB) to avoid sharpness.
- Reduce 2.4 kHz (-2 dB) to soften harshness in the midrange.
- Lower 15 kHz (-2 dB) to control treble.
For Clearer Vocals (Pop, Acoustic):
- Reduce 60 Hz (-2 dB to -4 dB) to remove unnecessary bass.
- Slightly cut 150 Hz (-2 dB) to clean up the mix.
- Boost 400 Hz (+2 dB) to maintain vocal clarity.
- Boost 1 kHz (+4 dB to +6 dB) to bring vocals forward.
- Slightly boost 2.4 kHz (+2 dB) for better vocal clarity.
- Reduce 15 kHz (-2 dB) to smooth sharp treble.
For Balanced Sound (All-Purpose Listening):
- Slightly boost 60 Hz (+2 dB to +4 dB) for warmth.
- Boost 150 Hz (+2 dB) for fullness.
- Keep 400 Hz neutral for balance.
- Slightly boost 1 kHz (+2 dB) for better clarity.
- Reduce 2.4 kHz (-2 dB) to avoid harshness.
- Slightly boost 15 kHz (+2 dB to +4 dB) for sparkle.
For Classical or Orchestral Music:
- Reduce 60 Hz (-2 dB to -4 dB) to avoid muddiness.
- Slightly reduce 150 Hz (-2 dB) for clarity.
- Slightly reduce 400 Hz (-2 dB) to keep the sound clean.
- Boost 1 kHz (+3 dB) to highlight strings and woodwinds.
- Slightly boost 2.4 kHz (+2 dB) for clarity.
- Slightly boost 15 kHz (+2 dB) for brilliance.
For Extra Clarity (Jazz, Lush Sounding Genres):
- Reduce 60 Hz (-2 dB to -4 dB) to prevent muddiness.
- Cut 150 Hz (-2 dB) to clear up the mix.
- Keep 400 Hz neutral.
- Boost 1 kHz (+2 dB) for presence.
- Slightly boost 2.4 kHz (+2 dB) for more detail.
- Boost 15 kHz (+4 dB to +6 dB) for sparkle and clarity.
Part 6. Best Alternative Equalizer Apps for Spotify
If the built-in EQ isn't enough, alternative apps give more control. They let you create custom profiles, adjust multiple frequency bands, and see changes in real time. These apps process audio before it reaches your device, so you hear adjustments instantly. Some may use more battery and behave differently depending on your device.
If you want even more control, you can use a tool like ViWizard Spotify Music Converter. Here's the idea: Spotify's EQ is great for small tweaks, but a dedicated EQ app works best with local files. ViWizard lets you convert your Spotify music, playlists, albums, podcasts, and even audiobooks into standard audio files like MP3, FLAC, or WAV. Once converted, you can use your favorite EQ app to shape the sound exactly how you like it.
The process is simple. Pick your output format, add your tracks, and start the conversion. ViWizard downloads the files in batches, keeping the audio lossless and preserving all metadata. Whether you're on Premium or Free, this method gives you the freedom to EQ your Spotify library exactly the way you want.
Download Spotify music, podcasts and audiobooks as MP3 and more. Keep full sound and listen offline anytime.
1. Boom 3D (iOS, macOS, Windows, Android)
Platforms: iOS, macOS, Windows, Android
Boom 3D is a popular audio enhancer known for its 3D surround sound and customizable equalizer settings. It works with all apps, including Spotify, and provides an immersive, cinematic audio experience with deep bass and spatial effects. Boom 3D is ideal for users who want to enhance their Spotify music with surround sound and preset audio options.
Key Features:
- 3D surround sound for an immersive listening experience
- Customizable audio presets for different music genres
- Intelligent volume boost for clearer sound
- Bass boost and equalizer for enhanced low and high frequencies
- Compatible with all audio types: music, movies, and games
- Download Boom 3D from the App Store (iOS) or the official website (macOS/Windows).
- Open the app and follow the setup instructions for your device.
- Launch Spotify and start playing music.
- Boom 3D automatically optimizes the sound. Adjust the equalizer if needed (e.g., bass, treble).
- Explore advanced features like 3D surround sound or volume boosters to personalize your audio experience.
2. Equalizer APO (Windows)
Platforms: Windows (Desktop)
Equalizer APO is a powerful, open-source equalizer that works system-wide on Windows. It lets you control audio settings for Spotify and any other sound source. Its open-source design allows precise adjustments, and multichannel support makes it a solid choice for surround sound setups. Equalizer APO is best for advanced users who want full control over their audio.
Key Features:
- Advanced parametric and graphic equalizers
- System-wide audio adjustment for all apps, including Spotify
- Low-latency processing for real-time audio adjustments
- Multichannel support for surround sound setups
- Customizable filters and frequency tweaks
- Download and install Equalizer APO from its official website.
- Open the configuration tool, select your audio device (speakers or headphones), and set it up.
- Play music from Spotify on your computer.
- Open Equalizer APO's interface and adjust sliders for bass, treble, and other settings according to your preference.
- The adjustments will apply system-wide, including Spotify, for a richer and more customized audio experience.
3. Audio Hijack (macOS)
Platforms: macOS
Audio Hijack is a Mac-only app that lets you add equalization and audio effects to any audio source, including Spotify. It works for recording and processing audio, with strong equalizer options and versatile effects. Audio Hijack is suitable for creative users who want to record, enhance, and customize their audio in detail.
Key Features:
- Advanced parametric and graphic equalizers for detailed audio adjustments
- Compatible with Spotify and other audio sources on Mac
- Supports audio recording and effects like reverb or pitch shift
- Low-latency audio processing for real-time adjustments
- Download and install Audio Hijack from the official website.
- Launch the app and create a new session to capture audio from Spotify.
- Play your Spotify music as usual.
- In Audio Hijack, select an equalizer module and adjust settings like bass, treble, or other effects to your preference.
- Apply the settings and enjoy your music with enhanced sound quality.
4. eqMac (macOS)
Platforms: macOS
eqMac is a user-friendly, system-wide equalizer for macOS that works across all apps, including Spotify. It is simple to use while still offering strong features for sound customization. eqMac is good for Mac users who want an easy equalizer that still provides flexibility. Whether adjusting bass or fine-tuning frequencies, eqMac gives an effective and intuitive solution.
Key Features:
- System-wide equalizer for all audio on macOS
- Customizable EQ profiles and presets for different listening styles
- Advanced equalizer curves and frequency adjustments
- Volume boosting for enhanced sound quality
- Download and install eqMac from the official website.
- Launch eqMac and follow the setup instructions.
- Play music on Spotify.
- Click the eqMac icon in the menu bar and adjust the equalizer settings to customize your audio.
- Enjoy a richer and more personalized Spotify listening experience.
5. Equalizer Pro (Windows)
Platforms: Windows
Equalizer Pro is a straightforward yet powerful equalizer for Windows that works with Spotify and other apps. Its 10-band equalizer gives precise control over your sound. Equalizer Pro is good for users who want a simple, effective equalizer without technical complications. Its easy interface and adjustable settings make it easy to improve your audio.
Key Features:
- 10-band equalizer for precise frequency control
- System-wide audio adjustment for all apps, including Spotify
- Multiple preset profiles for different genres and listening modes
- Simple, user-friendly interface
- Download and install Equalizer Pro from its official website.
- Open Equalizer Pro and keep it running in the background.
- Play music in Spotify on your computer.
- Use the equalizer controls to adjust bass, treble, and overall sound to your preference.
- Apply your settings and enjoy enhanced audio through Spotify.
Part 7. Tips to Improve Spotify Sound with EQ
Consider your listening environment. Headphones, Bluetooth speakers, and car audio respond differently, and streaming quality matters. Small tweaks can make a noticeable difference.
Tip 1: Match EQ to Your Listening Environment
Headphones, Bluetooth speakers, and car audio respond differently to frequency adjustments. Small tweaks to bass, mids, and treble can make a big difference depending on your device. Test your EQ with familiar songs to find what works best for each environment.
Tip 2: Use the Highest Streaming Quality
Premium users should select Very High or Lossless, while Free users should choose High. Higher-quality streams make EQ adjustments more noticeable and clearer. Lower quality can muddy or flatten changes.
Tip 3: Start With Small Adjustments
Extreme boosts or cuts can distort your sound. Begin with subtle tweaks and gradually adjust until you find the perfect balance. Small changes are often more effective and natural-sounding.
Tip 4: Enable Volume Normalization
Turning on Volume Normalization helps balance track loudness and prevents spikes when boosting certain frequencies. Choose "Normal" for casual listening, or "Quiet"/"Loud" depending on your environment to maintain consistent audio levels.
Tip 5: Use Presets and Save Custom EQs
Spotify offers presets like Bass Booster or Treble Booster. Start with a preset, then tweak manually and save your own custom EQ for each device. This avoids repeating adjustments every time you switch headphones, speakers, or cars.
Tip 6: Consider System or Device EQ
On some devices, Spotify redirects to the system or Dolby EQ. Adjust the system EQ in combination with Spotify's EQ to get the best results, especially on Android phones or Windows desktops.
Tip 7: Test Across Different Genres
What works for bass-heavy hip-hop may not suit classical or acoustic tracks. Listen to multiple songs and tweak your EQ for each genre or device type. Having slightly different EQ profiles for different situations is normal.
Part 8. FAQs of Spotify Equalizer
Here are answers to common questions on the Spotify equalizer:
Why isn't the equalizer doing anything when I move the sliders?
Sometimes Spotify's equalizer doesn't change the sound at all, especially after an app update. Many users notice that moving the sliders doesn't make a difference.
Why does my equalizer reset every time I close Spotify?
Some people see their settings stay the same visually, but the sound goes back to normal after reopening the app.
Why do I hear clicking or strange noises when using the equalizer?
Adjusting certain frequency bands can make the music sound muffled, quiet, or even cause clicking noises. This can happen because of app bugs.
Where did the equalizer go in the app?
After updates, some phones no longer show Spotify's built-in equalizer. Instead, they take you to the phone's or manufacturer's audio settings, which may be more limited.
Why doesn't my phone's equalizer work with Spotify?
Many users try using the phone's built-in or a third-party equalizer, but Spotify sometimes ignores these settings completely.
Why does the equalizer stop working with Android Auto or Bluetooth?
When connecting to Android Auto or certain Bluetooth devices, the equalizer may not apply, even though it works on the phone itself.
Does Spotify's equalizer work when playing music on another device (Spotify Connect)?
No. If you stream music to another device through Spotify Connect, the app's equalizer won't change the sound.
Why does changing the equalizer sometimes make the volume lower?
Boosting or cutting certain bands can make the music quieter overall instead of louder. This is a common issue users report.
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Adam Gorden, the digital media specialist at ViWizard, is dedicated to providing the best solutions for digital media management, including audio and video conversion, file optimization, and media workflow enhancements.
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