Premium-quality EasyEffects presets for KEF LSX speakers, AirPods Pro 2, and professional microphones, scientifically engineered for exceptional audio quality.
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├── *.json # Output presets (speakers/headphones)
├── optimized/ # Optimized and input presets
│ ├── input/ # Microphone presets
│ │ ├── Rode_NT_USB_Professional.json
│ │ └── AirPods_Pro_2_Microphone.json
│ ├── output/ # Alternative optimized versions
│ │ ├── AirPods_Pro_2_Ultimate.json
│ │ └── KEF_LSX.json
│ └── README.md # Detailed optimization notes
├── README.md # This file
├── INSTALLATION_GUIDE.md # Detailed installation instructions
├── TECHNICAL_DETAILS.md # In-depth technical documentation
└── PROJECT_CONTEXT.md # Development context and methodology
Optimized for modern IMAX Enhanced content with balanced, natural sound:
- ✅ Controlled deep bass (40Hz +3.8dB, 60Hz +2.8dB)
- ✅ Natural mid-bass transition (120Hz +1.0dB)
- ✅ Flat, neutral midrange (-0.3dB @ 250Hz, 0dB @ 500Hz, +0.5dB @ 1kHz)
- ✅ Clear presence & dialogue (2kHz +1.2dB, 4kHz +1.5dB)
- ✅ Natural highs (8kHz +0.8dB, 16kHz +0.3dB)
- ✅ Bass Enhancer for psychoacoustic depth (2.5 amount)
- ✅ Moderate stereo width (60% base) for near-field
- ✅ Wide dynamic range with minimal compression
Calibrated for movies and cinematic content:
- 🎬 Deep sub-bass impact (25Hz +3dB, 50Hz +3.5dB)
- 🎬 Cinema V-curve with enhanced dynamics
- 🎬 Dialogue clarity (3.2kHz +6dB)
- 🎬 Explosive highs (6.4kHz +8dB)
- 🎬 Advanced limiting for distortion-free peaks
- 🎬 Wider soundstage (+25% stereo base)
Refined optimization for daily listening:
- 🎧 Gentle bass boost (32Hz +1.5dB, 64Hz +0.5dB)
- 🎧 Smooth midrange correction (-1.5dB mud reduction)
- 🎧 Enhanced clarity (2-4kHz +2.5-3dB)
- 🎧 Crisp highs (8kHz +2dB, 16kHz +1dB)
- 🎧 Conservative bass enhancement (amount: 2.5)
- 🎧 Natural stereo imaging
Aggressive optimization for audiophile listening:
- 🚀 Extended sub-bass (20Hz +1.5dB, 40Hz +1dB)
- 🚀 Precise midrange sculpting (-2.5 to -3dB notch reduction)
- 🚀 Brilliant upper midrange (1.3-2.6kHz +2-5dB)
- 🚀 Sparkling highs (5-10kHz +4.5-6dB)
- 🚀 Advanced 6-plugin chain with compression & limiting
- 🚀 Enhanced stereo width (+10% stereo base)
Custom-tuned profile for balanced, engaging listening:
- 🎵 Powerful sub-bass foundation (28Hz +8.5dB, 64Hz +9dB)
- 🎵 Full mid-bass presence (125Hz +6dB)
- 🎵 Enhanced warmth (250Hz +2dB)
- 🎵 Clear midrange separation (500Hz -3dB, 1kHz -2dB)
- 🎵 Vocal presence enhancement (2kHz +4dB, 3.5kHz +8dB)
- 🎵 Brilliant highs (7kHz +9dB, 14kHz +7.5dB)
- 🎵 Strong bass enhancement (amount: 6.5)
Dynamic cinema tuning with massive headroom:
- 🎬 Controlled sub-bass (25Hz +3dB, 50Hz +3.5dB, 100Hz +2.5dB)
- 🎬 Full-bodied warmth (200Hz +3dB)
- 🎬 Clean midrange (400Hz -4dB, 800Hz -3.5dB)
- 🎬 Vocal intelligibility (1.6kHz +2dB, 3.2kHz +6dB)
- 🎬 Cinematic presence (6.4kHz +8dB, 12.8kHz +6dB)
- 🎬 Extended input headroom (-15dB for dynamics)
- 🎬 Conservative bass enhancement (amount: 3.0)
See optimized/input/ directory for professional microphone presets.
Professional broadcast-quality voice processing:
- 🎙️ Professional 5-plugin processing chain
- 🎙️ Noise gate (-35dB threshold)
- 🎙️ High-pass filter (60Hz) removes rumble and plosives
- 🎙️ Proximity effect correction (200Hz -1.5dB)
- 🎙️ De-esser for controlling sibilance (NT-USB known issue)
- 🎙️ Radio-style compression (4:1 ratio)
- 🎙️ Ideal for: Podcasts, streaming, voice-over, gaming
Optimized voice processing for AirPods Pro 2 built-in microphones:
- 🎧 5-plugin professional chain (Gate → EQ → De-esser → Compressor → Limiter)
- 🎧 Adaptive noise gate (-40dB threshold) for background noise
- 🎧 High-pass filter (80Hz) removes low-frequency rumble
- 🎧 Low-pass filter (12kHz) removes high-frequency hiss
- 🎧 Corrects typical Bluetooth mic characteristics:
- Reduces boominess (150Hz -2dB, 300Hz -1.5dB)
- Reduces boxiness (800Hz -1dB)
- Enhances voice clarity (2kHz +1.5dB, 3.5kHz +2.5dB)
- Controls high-frequency harshness (7.5kHz -1.5dB, 10kHz -2dB)
- 🎧 De-esser (6-8kHz range) for smooth sibilants
- 🎧 Gentle compression (3:1 ratio) for consistent levels
- 🎧 Safety limiter prevents clipping
- 🎧 Perfect for: Video calls, Discord, Teams, mobile recording
Primary Target: KEF LSX (Original & LSX II)
- Optimized for desktop placement
- Corrects inherent LSX frequency response issues
- Compensates for near-field listening position
May also benefit:
- KEF LS50 Wireless
- Other small bookshelf speakers with similar characteristics
- Coaxial driver designs
Target Device: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
- Corrects frequency response based on measurements
- Optimizes for desktop/mobile listening
- Works with any Bluetooth or wired connection to Linux
Compatibility:
- ✅ AirPods Pro 2 (2022 model)
⚠️ May work with AirPods Pro 1st gen (not optimized)⚠️ Not recommended for regular AirPods or other earbuds
Positioning:
- Desktop placement at ear level
- Behind/between computer monitors
- 0.5-1.5m listening distance
- Speakers on isolation pads/books
Room Treatment:
- Hard surfaces (desk, wall reflections) accounted for
- No additional room correction required
Connection:
- Bluetooth: Pair normally, ensure high-quality codec (AAC/aptX)
- Wired: Use Lightning to 3.5mm adapter for best quality
- USB-C: Direct connection to modern devices
Settings:
- Turn OFF AirPods' built-in EQ (use "Off" in iOS settings)
- Disable Adaptive EQ in AirPods settings
- Set Noise Control to "Transparency" or "Off" for critical listening
- Use "AirPods_Pro_2.json" for daily use, "Ultimate" for audiophile sessions
Sub-Bass (40Hz): +3.8dB, Q=0.9
Bass (60Hz): +2.8dB, Q=0.95
Mid-Bass (120Hz): +1.0dB, Q=0.9
Lower-Mid (250Hz): -0.3dB, Q=1.0
Midrange (500Hz): 0.0dB, Q=1.0 (neutral)
Clarity (1kHz): +0.5dB, Q=0.9
Presence (2kHz): +1.2dB, Q=0.9
Definition (4kHz): +1.5dB, Q=0.9
Brilliance (8kHz): +0.8dB, Q=0.85
Air (16kHz): +0.3dB, Q=0.8
Effects Chain:
EQ → Bass Enhancer (2.5, 35Hz floor) → Exciter (1.0, subtle) → Stereo Tools (0.6) → Limiter (-1.5dB)
Philosophy: Flatter frequency response, controlled bass, natural highs,
wide dynamic range - optimized for IMAX Enhanced standard.
Sub-Bass (25Hz): +3.0dB, Q=1.2
Bass (50Hz): +3.5dB, Q=1.2
Impact (100Hz): +2.5dB, Q=1.2
Warmth (200Hz): +3.0dB, Q=0.9
Mid-Cut (400Hz): -4.0dB, Q=0.5
Clarity Cut (800Hz): -3.5dB, Q=0.6
Dialogue (3.2kHz): +6.0dB, Q=0.6
Presence (6.4kHz): +8.0dB, Q=0.7
Air (12.8kHz): +6.0dB, Q=0.8
Effects Chain:
EQ → Bass Enhancer (+3dB) → Exciter (+9dB) → Stereo Tools → Limiter
Sub-Bass (32Hz): +1.5dB, Q=1.2
Bass (64Hz): +0.5dB, Q=1.0
Mid-Cut (125Hz): -1.0dB, Q=0.8
Mud-Cut (250Hz): -1.5dB, Q=0.9
Clarity (1kHz): +1.0dB, Q=0.8
Presence (2kHz): +2.5dB, Q=0.9
Brilliance (4kHz): +3.0dB, Q=0.8
Detail (8kHz): +2.0dB, Q=1.0
Air (16kHz): +1.0dB, Q=1.2
Effects Chain:
EQ (-2dB input) → Bass Enhancer (2.5) → Exciter (3.0) → Stereo Tools
Deep Bass (20Hz): +1.5dB, Q=0.8
Sub-Bass (40Hz): +1.0dB, Q=0.9
Foundation (80Hz): +0.5dB, Q=1.0
Upper-Bass Cut (160Hz): -2.5dB, Q=0.6
Mid Cut (320Hz): -3.0dB, Q=0.7
Lower-Mid Cut (640Hz): -1.5dB, Q=0.8
Clarity (1.28kHz): +2.0dB, Q=0.7
Presence (2.56kHz): +5.0dB, Q=0.6
Brilliance (5.12kHz): +6.0dB, Q=0.7
Detail (10.24kHz): +4.5dB, Q=0.8
Effects Chain:
EQ (-6dB input) → Compressor → Bass Enhancer (2.0) → Exciter (6.0) → Stereo Tools → Limiter (-3dB)
Sub-Bass (28Hz): +8.5dB, Q=0.9
Bass (64Hz): +9.0dB, Q=1.1
Mid-Bass (125Hz): +6.0dB, Q=1.0
Warmth (250Hz): +2.0dB, Q=0.9
Lower-Mid (500Hz): -3.0dB, Q=0.6
Upper-Mid (1kHz): -2.0dB, Q=0.8
Vocals (2kHz): +4.0dB, Q=0.8
Presence (3.5kHz): +8.0dB, Q=0.8
Brilliance (7kHz): +9.0dB, Q=0.9
Air (14kHz): +7.5dB, Q=1.0
Effects Chain:
EQ (-5dB input) → Bass Enhancer (6.5) → Exciter (7.0) → Stereo Tools (15%)
Sub-Bass (25Hz): +3.0dB, Q=1.2
Bass (50Hz): +3.5dB, Q=1.2
Impact (100Hz): +2.5dB, Q=1.2
Warmth (200Hz): +3.0dB, Q=0.9
Mid-Cut (400Hz): -4.0dB, Q=0.5
Clarity Cut (800Hz): -3.5dB, Q=0.6
Definition (1.6kHz): +2.0dB, Q=0.7
Dialogue (3.2kHz): +6.0dB, Q=0.6
Presence (6.4kHz): +8.0dB, Q=0.7
Air (12.8kHz): +6.0dB, Q=0.8
Effects Chain:
EQ (-15dB input) → Bass Enhancer (3.0) → Exciter (9.0) → Stereo Tools (25%) → Limiter
- Download the preset files from the repository root
- Copy to your EasyEffects output presets folder:
# For system installation: cp *.json ~/.config/easyeffects/output/ # For Flatpak installation: cp *.json ~/.var/app/com.github.wwmm.easyeffects/config/easyeffects/output/
-
Download presets from the
optimized/input/directory -
Copy to your EasyEffects input presets folder:
# For system installation: cp optimized/input/*.json ~/.config/easyeffects/input/ # For Flatpak installation: cp optimized/input/*.json ~/.var/app/com.github.wwmm.easyeffects/config/easyeffects/input/
-
Restart EasyEffects
-
Select preset from the dropdown menu (Output or Input tab)
git clone https://github.com/runlvl/KEF-LSX-EasyEffects-Presets.git
cd KEF-LSX-EasyEffects-Presets
# Install output presets (system):
cp *.json ~/.config/easyeffects/output/
# Install input presets (system):
cp optimized/input/*.json ~/.config/easyeffects/input/
# Or for Flatpak:
cp *.json ~/.var/app/com.github.wwmm.easyeffects/config/easyeffects/output/
cp optimized/input/*.json ~/.var/app/com.github.wwmm.easyeffects/config/easyeffects/input/# Output presets:
cd ~/.config/easyeffects/output/ # or Flatpak path
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/runlvl/KEF-LSX-EasyEffects-Presets/main/KEF_LSX.json
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/runlvl/KEF-LSX-EasyEffects-Presets/main/Runlvl.json
# ... etc
# Input presets:
cd ~/.config/easyeffects/input/ # or Flatpak path
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/runlvl/KEF-LSX-EasyEffects-Presets/main/optimized/input/Rode_NT_USB_Professional.jsonOptimized for IMAX Enhanced content and balanced audio:
- 🎬 Movies and TV shows (IMAX Enhanced standard)
- 🎵 Music listening (all genres) with natural tonality
- 🎮 Gaming with precise audio positioning
- 💬 Video calls/meetings with clear dialogue
- 📚 Podcast/audiobook listening
- 🖥️ General computer use
- Wide dynamic range content
Ideal for:
- Movies and TV shows
- Gaming with cinematic audio
- YouTube/streaming content
- Music with dynamic range (orchestral, film scores)
- Testing speaker capabilities
Best for:
- Music with strong bass and vocal presence
- Electronic, hip-hop, pop genres
- Engaging, energetic listening sessions
- Desktop listening with maximum impact
- Alternative to KEF_LSX for bass lovers
Optimal for:
- Blockbuster movies with explosive soundtracks
- High dynamic range content (Dolby Atmos/DTS:X)
- Action, sci-fi, thriller genres
- Professional audio monitoring with headroom
- Maximum cinematic immersion
- Standard: Daily mobile/desktop listening
- Ultimate: Critical listening, audiophile sessions
Ideal for:
- Podcasting and voice-over work
- Live streaming (Twitch, YouTube)
- Gaming communication (Discord, TeamSpeak)
- Video calls with professional audio quality
- Voice recording for content creation
Best for:
- Mobile video calls (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet)
- Gaming voice chat (Discord, in-game comms)
- Quick voice recordings on-the-go
- Casual streaming with AirPods
- Professional sound from Bluetooth microphone
- When you need mobility without sacrificing quality
- Too much bass? Reduce gains at 28Hz/64Hz by 1-2dB
- Harsh highs? Slightly reduce 7kHz/14kHz by 0.5-1dB
- Not enough presence? Increase 3.5kHz by 0.5-1dB
- Too wide stereo? Reduce stereo-base to 0.1 (KEF_LSX) or 0.2 (Cinema)
- Both presets include input gain reduction for headroom
- If too quiet: Increase system volume rather than preset output-gain
- If distortion occurs: Reduce input material volume first
These presets were developed through:
- Frequency Response Analysis - Based on Stereophile KEF LSX measurements
- Room Acoustic Compensation - Desktop placement considerations
- Iterative Testing - Extensive listening tests across content types
- Precision Tuning - Q-values and gains optimized for clarity
- Overload Protection - Limiting and gain staging for clean dynamics
KEF LSX Known Issues Addressed:
- Weak sub-bass below 50Hz → Enhanced with controlled boost
- Mid-range boxiness around 500-1000Hz → Precisely notched
- Treble rolloff above 10kHz → Extended with careful enhancement
- Near-field reflections → Compensated with EQ adjustments
Tested Environment:
- openSUSE Tumbleweed Linux
- EasyEffects (Flatpak version)
- KEF LSX original
- Desktop setup behind dual monitors
- Various music genres and movie content
Community:
- Share your experience in GitHub Issues
- Suggest improvements or variations
- Report compatibility with other speakers
These presets are released under Creative Commons CC0 - Public Domain. Use, modify, and share freely. Attribution appreciated but not required.
Created by: KEF_LSX
Developed with: Claude Code AI Assistant
Based on: KEF LSX frequency response measurements from Stereophile
Inspired by: Cinema audio engineering principles and audiophile listening standards
The optimized/ directory contains scientifically refined versions and input presets:
- Minimal intervention approach for KEF LSX (respecting factory DSP)
- Refined highs for AirPods Pro 2 Ultimate (reduced fatigue)
- Professional broadcast chain for Rode NT-USB microphone
See optimized/README.md for detailed optimization notes and test results.
For Speakers:
- Start with KEF_LSX or Runlvl for daily music
- Switch to Cinema profiles for movies
- All presets designed for normal listening volume
For Headphones:
- AirPods_Pro_2.json: Daily commute, casual listening
- AirPods_Pro_2_Ultimate.json: Critical listening sessions
- Check
optimized/output/for alternative tunings
For Microphones:
- Install input presets from
optimized/input/ - Professional broadcast-quality voice processing included
- Ideal for streaming, podcasting, and video calls
Enjoy your transformed audio experience! 🎵✨