EQ Cheat Sheet: Simple Guidelines for Effective Equalization — Produce Like A Pro

EQ Cheat Sheet: Simple Guidelines for Effective Equalization — Produce Like A Pro:

Understanding equalization–probably the most widely used signal processor available to engineers–is essential to making records sound their absolute best. Sometimes it’s as simple as high-passing an instrument in the proper spot, while other cases require a bit more attention and precision. Either way, EQ is fundamental to making mix elements sound more or less defined, larger or smaller, or “better” versus “different.” Having a general reference like an EQ cheat sheet will help get you where you want to go more quickly.

In response to a request at the Produce Like a Pro Academy I went hunting for some easy to access cheatsheets. This is one of a few.

The Ultimate EQ Cheat Sheet for Every Common Instrument

The Ultimate EQ Cheat Sheet for Every Common Instrument:

A subtractive approach to EQ

Not everyone’s ethos on EQ is the same, and most people may never see eye to eye on EQ approach. That being said, I come from the camp that subtractive over additive tends to be better for your mix in most cases. Now, I’m not saying to live in a strictly subtractive world; I do make boosts from time to time when needed or appropriate, but it’s probably a 3:1 or 4:1 ratio of cuts to boosts.

The question was asked in the Produce Like a Pro Academy. Here is one idea of a “standard” EQ cheatsheet.

5 Times to Use VocalSynth 2 in a Mix

5 Times to Use VocalSynth 2 in a Mix:

If you use VocalSynth 2 or have watched our tutorials for it, you already know it’s a versatile effects engine capable of everything from subtle voice enhancement to chopped-and-pitched insanity. When you’re short on ideas, it’s encouraging to pass a vocal through and just listen to how the plug-in changes it’s characteristics, tweaking parameters to taste.

But what about some more functional applications when mixing vocals? Where can you plug VocalSynth 2 into a song to improve it? And what are the tell-tale signs a recording might need its unique assistance? In this post, I’ll answer these questions and more, giving you tips for productive vocal mixing sessions. Here are five times to use VocalSynth 2 in a mix.