4. Parallel processing with EQ
This is a good example of a more advanced pairing of EQ and compression. This technique works best with a naturally dynamic recording — such as a lead vocal or acoustic guitar.
Duplicate the track and heavily compress one copy while leaving the other relatively dynamic. Balance the two so that the compressed track is dominant during quiet passages and the dynamic track is dominant during the loud passages. This opens up a lot of interesting possibilities when the two tracks have different EQ applied to them.
For example, you could make the dynamic track brighter and the compressed track darker. It will sound as if the recorded instrument itself gets brighter in the mix as it gets louder. Or make the compressed track warm and full-bodied, but reduce the lower frequency energy in the dynamic track.
As the track gets louder, it thins out to make room for other instruments in the mix (which might also be getting louder), but stays warm and full during quieter parts where it’s more exposed.
5. EQ’ing effects returns
This is a good one, especially useful for reverbs. If you’re mixing in software, insert your favorite EQ after your reverb. If you’re mixing in hardware, bring your reverb back on a regular channel pair (not the less-featured stereo returns).
Or patch a decent outboard EQ after the reverb before it comes back to the desk.
Many reverbs have some in-board tone control, but it probably won’t be as flexible as your desk EQ or outboard EQ. This gives you much more power to shape the sound of your reverb and ambience at the back of the mix.
Happy with the reverb but it’s fighting a bit too much with the vocal? Give it a dip in the midrange. Want more focus in the low end of the slap bass while still retaining the ambience and space in the top? Bring in a gentle low shelf for a more natural cleanup than a low cut filter.
Mix sounding a bit dead? Add some more dimension by gently boosting the top without upsetting the mix balance.
And this is just scratching the surface.
All in all, there’s a lot you can do with EQ. Much more than might be obvious at first. Give these techniques a try and you might just find a new secret weapon that’ll save your next mix.
[Editor’s note: Of course if you want to rapidly improve your EQ skills, download Quiztones.]
Kim Lajoie is a Melbourne music producer specialising in composition, project management and digital audio technology. With over two decades of music behind him, Kim brings expert skill and wide-ranging influences to every project. Kim’s highly structured and disciplined approach allows his artists to advance their careers with confidence and determination. Kim takes care of the details so his artists can focus on their creative expression.
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