No, you do not have to use an app to set the equalizer settings. The following steps will guide you to them instead: 1. Make sure your headphones are fully charged or plugged in via a USB cable. 2. Hold down the + and - buttons simultaneously for at least 5 seconds until you see the equalizer icon pop up on the LED screen. 3. Hold down the middle button to cycle through each level of customization, which includes OFF, 1X Bass, 2X Bass, and Normal EQ.