Graphic Equalizer --Ugh

If you need one use it. Most likely, the source material you are listening to has been run through one in the recording process!!

Cford...Unbalanced in. Balanced out.

Newbee...If there is a "tape" loop that is a logical place to put it. However, the DEQ2496 has a bypass switch which is the functional equivalent of the tape loop. NOT having a volume control after the DEQ2496 simplifies some level setting aspects of using the unit.

As for switching it out when "not needed"... I find that its most important function is to equalize the room response, so it's always in. I had no idea the improvement possible by room equalization until I actually experienced it.

I'm part of the anti-EQ camp. EQs are phase distorters. No matter what way you look at it, all you're doing is distorting your signal. I say instead of adding more gear (more noise and distortion), just get to the problem--perhaps there is a treatment you could try on the disc, a darker cable, or otherwise accept that some pressings are too bright.

I'm a pro audio guy and in the industry, Behringer is known to be unreliable, sonically uninspiring with questionable ethical and labor practices and sub par parts--fair warning. If you must have an EQ, you might consider a parametric EQ--I like them because you can set the bandwidth and sweep across the frequency spectrum to find hot and low spots. As far as pro audio units go, Ashly and Rane make fine eqs for a fair price; even the venerable DBX 242 may be a sturdier and more musical choice than a Behringer if you are ok with parametric control. They can be had on ebay for as much or less than the Behringers.

Of course there will be the anti-EQ, anti-digital, and anti-Chinese-made comments. This is why I suggested that the purchase (all $370 of it) be justified entirely by the RTA capability, which observes but does not affect the sound. I am sure that once you get your hands on the unit you will be curious enough to listen to it, and exercise the auto-EQ capability. Then, you decide.

I agree with Eldartford. I suspect that some of the "reliability" issues with Behringer were older units that were abused on the road. In your situation I can't see you having any problems. Also, Dirtyraggamuffin, what company doesn't have suspect labor practices? Unless of course everything you own was built on a utopian commune.