How To Use EQ – Understanding Audio Equalization

Equalization, or EQ, is an essential tool for music producers and audio engineers to shape and balance the frequency content of a recording or mix. Here are some steps on how to use an EQ effectively:

Understand the frequency spectrum: Before using an EQ, it’s essential to have a good understanding of the frequency spectrum. The frequency spectrum is the range of frequencies that are present in a sound. It is usually divided into three main sections: low frequencies, mid frequencies, and high frequencies.

• Low frequencies are typically in the range of 20Hz-250Hz and are responsible for the bass and bottom end of a recording. This includes instruments like the kick drum, bass guitar, and lower notes on a piano or guitar.
• Mid frequencies are typically in the range of 250Hz-2kHz and are responsible for the body and warmth of a recording. This includes instruments like the human voice, acoustic guitar, and snare drum.
• High frequencies are typically in the range of 2kHz-20kHz and are responsible for the brightness and clarity of a recording. This includes instruments like cymbals, hi-hats, and higher notes on a piano or guitar.

Understanding the frequency spectrum is important for music producers and audio engineers because it allows them to shape and balance the frequency content of a recording or mix. By adjusting the levels of different frequencies using tools like an EQ, producers can create a more balanced and pleasing sound.

A well-balanced stereo image is essential for creating a cohesive mix. Use EQ to balance the frequency content of your mix and ensure that each instrument has its own space in the stereo field.

• Identify problem frequencies: Listen carefully to your recording or mix and identify any problem frequencies that need to be corrected or removed. For example, if you notice a harsh, nasal sound in the midrange, you might want to reduce the EQ at that frequency.
• Use a parametric EQ: Parametric EQs allow you to adjust the frequency, gain, and bandwidth of each band. This flexibility makes them a powerful tool for shaping and balancing the frequency content of a recording or mix.
• Parametric EQs have a more precise frequency control than fixed-band EQs. This means that you can adjust the center frequency of a parametric EQ band to target a specific frequency range, whereas fixed-band EQs have a set frequency range that cannot be changed. Parametric EQs are more flexible than fixed-band EQs. They typically have more bands and offer more control over the frequency and bandwidth of each band. This makes them ideal for complex sound shaping and frequency correction tasks. Parametric EQs offer more precision, flexibility, and control over the frequency content of a sound, while fixed-band EQs are simpler and easier to use for basic frequency-shaping tasks. The choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and the complexity of the sound shaping or frequency correction task at hand.
• Start with broad adjustments: Start by making broad adjustments to the EQ to get a sense of how the changes are affecting the overall sound. For example, if you want to reduce the low-end rumble in a recording, start by cutting the EQ at 50Hz with a broad Q (bandwidth).
• Use a spectrum analyzer: A spectrum analyzer can be a helpful tool to visualize the frequency content of your recording or mix. It can also help you identify problem frequencies and make more precise EQ adjustments.

Best spectrum analyzer audio plugins

There are many spectrum analyzer VST plugins available, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Here are some of the best spectrum analyzer VST plugins available:

• FabFilter Pro-Q 3: This powerful EQ and spectrum analyzer VST plugin allows you to visualize the frequency content of your mix in real-time. It also features a built-in auto gain mode and spectrum grab feature.
• iZotope Insight 2: This comprehensive metering and analysis plugin features a detailed real-time spectrum analyzer, loudness metering, and surround sound analysis.
• Voxengo SPAN: This free real-time FFT spectrum analyzer VST plugin allows you to monitor the frequency content of your mix and features a customizable display with multiple view modes.
• Waves Audio WLM Plus Loudness Meter: This metering plugin features a real-time spectrum analyzer, loudness metering, and true-peak metering. It is designed for broadcast and post-production applications.
• Blue Cat Audio FreqAnalyst: This free spectrum analyzer plugin features a customizable display and real-time analysis of the frequency content of your mix.
• Sonalksis FreeG: This free plugin features a real-time spectrum analyzer, level metering, and dynamic range analysis.

These are just a few of the best spectrum analyzer VST plugins on the market, but there are many other options available depending on your needs and preferences. Ultimately, the best spectrum analyzer VST plugin for you will depend on your budget, the features you need, and the type of music you want to produce.

Also see: 10 Best Free Spectrum Analyzer VST Plugins

Be subtle: EQ is a powerful tool, but it’s important to use it subtly. Overuse of EQ can lead to an unnatural or artificial sound. A good rule of thumb is to make small adjustments and to listen carefully to how the changes are affecting the overall sound.

Use your ears: Ultimately, the most important tool for using an EQ effectively is your ears. Listen carefully to your recording or mix and make adjustments that enhance the overall sound and balance of the mix.

By following these steps, you can use an EQ effectively to shape and balance the frequency content of your recording or mix.

Also read: Mixing Tips: Mixing With Frequencies