Synergistic Research FEQ Carbon Acoustic Field Generator

Synergistic Research FEQ Carbon

The FEQ Carbon is a third-generation, two-channel acoustic field generator designed to let listeners adjust the perceived size and scale of their soundstage. It uses a redesigned circuit board with dual RF generators, adding a second, independently controlled ULF generator channel to the previous single-channel FEQ design — a first for the FEQ line, adapted from technology used in the larger Atmosphere Infinity. Its carbon fibre chassis is designed to improve broadcast of the ULF frequencies through its conductive weave. The FEQ Carbon offers two selectable frequency settings, each intended to suit different recording styles. As an authorized Synergistic Research dealer in Toronto, Canada, Vinyl Sound can help you decide whether the FEQ Carbon or the larger Atmosphere Infinity is the right fit for your room and system.

Key Features

• Third-generation, two-channel acoustic field generator
• Redesigned PCB with dual RF generators and a second, independently controlled ULF channel
• Carbon fibre chassis designed to improve ULF frequency broadcast through its conductive weave
• Two selectable frequency settings for different recording types
• Powered via included 3m USB cable; USB cable upgrades available
• Compatible with the ATM Carbon tuning module (sold separately) for additional tuning

Frequency Settings

• Blue — voiced for acoustic instruments, vocals, and smaller-scale performances
• Red — voiced for large-scale performances and electronic music

Note: on units manufactured before December 5, 2022, these settings were labeled Red and Purple respectively rather than Blue and Red.

Design Background

Synergistic Research designer Ted Denney — who developed the AC Master Coupler power cord in 1994 and the non-current-limiting AC filter used in the company's PowerCell line conditioners in 2007 — theorized that ambient RF conditions, including man-made and solar radio frequency activity, could be a factor in perceived audio system performance beyond AC power quality alone. The FEQ Carbon's ULF generator is built on that design theory, aiming to shape the ambient RF environment around a system. This is presented as Synergistic Research's design rationale rather than independently verified acoustic science, and results are subjective and system-dependent.

ATM Carbon Tuning Module (Sold Separately)

The ATM Carbon is a tuning module designed specifically for the FEQ Carbon's frequency combinations, placed on top of the unit to further adjust soundstage scale and perceived noise floor. It ships with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Press & Reviews

"The FEQ Carbon device simply helped to more completely saturate the entire sound field... my listening room took on the proverbial sensation of the walls simply falling away."
— Bill Wells, Stereotimes, November 2021

FEQ Carbon FAQ

What does the FEQ Carbon do?
It's a two-channel acoustic field generator designed to let you adjust the perceived size and scale of your soundstage using two selectable ULF frequency settings.

What's the difference between the FEQ Carbon and the Atmosphere Infinity?
The Atmosphere Infinity is Synergistic Research's larger, more complex acoustic field generator. According to Synergistic Research, the FEQ Carbon's two frequency combinations can outperform it in specific respects — focus and clarity on acoustic recordings, and a more holographic soundstage on large-scale recordings — despite its smaller size.

Do I need the ATM Carbon as well?
No, the FEQ Carbon works as a standalone unit. The ATM Carbon is an optional tuning module sold separately for further adjustment, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.