Disclosed sensors, sensor controllers, and sensor control methods enhance transducer performance using a model-based equalization method that can be performed in the field. One illustrative method for operating a piezoelectric-based sensor includes: sensing a response of a piezoelectric transducer as a function of frequency; deriving parameter values of an equivalent circuit for the piezoelectric transducer from the response; using a squared magnitude of the equivalent circuit's transfer function to determine a system level selectivity; and adapting at least one operating parameter of the sensor based on the system level selectivity. One illustrative controller for a piezoelectric transducer includes: a transmitter that drives the piezoelectric transducer; a receiver that senses a response of the piezoelectric transducer; and a processing circuit coupled to the transmitter and to the receiver to calibrate the transducer using the foregoing method.