[DeepThought]

I don't think there is a consensus.
I equalize very frequently.
By 'very' I mean that I do it alteast every meter, if not 2-3 times per meter.
I don't really take my equalizing hand of my mask, defnitly not shallower than 15m.

I equalize so often because that's how it feels right to me.

Rationalization-wise: less stretching of the eardrum = no long term damage to hearing (there are some speculations about that regarding freediving).
Also, hydrostatic perssure works on the softest tissues first, in this case: the e-tubes themselves rather than the eardrum. So when you already feel your eardrums it's after the e-tubes have narrowed to some extent, which might mean tougher equalization.