Now, let’s delve into shaping the sound with an equalizer.
One key piece of advice when EQing is to recognize the types of EQs at your disposal. If you have analog emulations like the Pultec or SSL EQ, they’re wonderful for adding color and harmonic overtones when boosting frequencies.
Conversely, when cutting frequencies, opt for EQs that maintain the natural tone of your vocals.
Even if you’re equipped with just one EQ, it’s sufficient for a top-tier sound. For optimal results, lean on your reference track. Place an EQ on it to pinpoint where the vocals lie in the mix. Regularly switch between your track and the reference to ensure precise tweaks.
Typically, boosts and cuts shouldn’t surpass 3dB – 5dB. A lower Q factor usually yields more organic outcomes.
I recognize that this might feel overwhelming initially. Thus, to demystify the effects of each frequency range, I’ve curated this illustrative guide for you. Hover over the image for “EQ Examples”