There is no such thing as a max boost, it all depends on the actual application, but... keep in mind that for every 3dB you are doubling the power, so a 12dB boost requires 16 times more power!
A Q=7 is not in itself nonsensical. But a boost at f=20kHz with Q=7 does not make any sense, just look at what it does in the frequency domain, why would you ever want to apply such a narrow band boost at 20kHz?
Generally speaking, it is not advisable to correct very narrow (high Q) dips, but it is perfectly okay to dampen peaks. Also, our ears are a lot more sensitive to peaks than dips.
Hi. Thanks for the replies.
Even though your words of wisdom are invaluable to me it does not explain what the max boost allowed is
Most eq's are + or - 12 db
Why is a q setting of 7 nonsensical?
Thank you.