What Type Of EQ Should I Use?

Summary

In this video, the speaker explores various EQ types and their specific use cases, comparing stock EQs, dynamic EQs like NOVA, and linear phase EQs. The key focus is on understanding how EQs behave in different situations and how to choose the right EQ for the job—whether for surgical frequency adjustments, saturation, or dynamic control. The speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on frequencies in mixing, rather than getting bogged down in technical details. Ultimately, the takeaway is that EQ decisions should align with the needs of the mix, not the tool itself.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understanding your tools deeply helps you focus on creative decisions during mixing, rather than worrying about technicalities.
• 😀 Pro-Q3 and NOVA behave similarly when using multiple boosts in series, but NOVA introduces dynamic EQ processing, which changes the outcome.
• 😀 The extra two bands in NOVA's Gentlemen's Edition provide more value than expected because they cannot be replicated by adding another instance of the free NOVA.
• 😀 When mixing, focus on which frequencies to boost or cut, not which EQ to use, as stock EQs often perform very well for most situations.
• 😀 Some EQs, like the free NOVA and Slick EQ, are great for high-frequency boosts, especially when your stock EQ crams the high-end.
• 😀 If your mix is too clean, consider using colorful EQs or saturation to add harmonics and thickness to the low end or airiness to the high end.
• 😀 Linear phase EQ is useful for specific cases like mid-side processing and crossover filters, but is rarely needed in regular mixing tasks.
• 😀 Linear phase filtering, while complex and CPU-intensive, can avoid phase issues when creating crossovers, ensuring a smooth frequency response.
• 😀 Using linear phase EQ for high-frequency boosts may soften transients slightly, which some people might find desirable for a more subtle effect.
• 😀 The user experience of a Pultec-style EQ is valued for its simplicity and ease of use, allowing quick, effective adjustments with fewer options to distract from the task.
• 😀 EQ matching is a helpful tool for comping takes recorded on different days or adjusting unbalanced stereo channels, though it's not needed daily.

Q & A

What is the main point of the video?

The main point is to help viewers understand how EQ tools work, their strengths and weaknesses, and how to use them effectively in mixing. The focus is on making informed decisions without overthinking the technical details during the mix process.

What is the difference between using EQs in series and parallel?

In series, EQs affect the signal one after the other without altering the overall outcome, as seen with Pro-Q3. However, running NOVA EQs in series produces a different result because the second band is fed the output of the first band, making it a serial EQ design.

Why are the extra bands in the Gentlemen's Edition of NOVA valuable?

The extra bands in the Gentlemen's Edition of NOVA offer greater flexibility than the free version. Adding more bands in a single instance of NOVA is more efficient than running multiple instances of the free version, which would not achieve the same result.

When should you use a specific EQ rather than your stock EQ?

You should use a specific EQ if it offers something that your stock EQ cannot, such as a unique feature or a particular character like saturation, high-frequency boosts, or dynamic processing. Otherwise, stick with your usual EQ and focus on adjusting frequencies.

What is high-frequency cramping, and how do you deal with it?

High-frequency cramping occurs when an EQ starts to sound harsh or abrasive while boosting high frequencies. To avoid this, you can use other EQs, like the free versions of NOVA or Slick EQ, which handle high-frequency boosts smoothly.

Why do some EQs, like the Pultec style, feel more user-friendly?

EQs like the Pultec style are simple and intuitive to use, offering broad tone-shaping with minimal knobs to tweak. This straightforward interface contrasts with more complex EQs like Pro-Q3, which offer more detailed control but can feel overwhelming during fast mixing.

What is the issue with linear phase EQ, and when should you use it?

Linear phase EQ can introduce pre-ringing, which is a potential problem, especially with low frequencies, as it can soften transients. However, it’s useful for tasks like mid-side processing or when you need to avoid phase shifts at crossover frequencies, such as in custom crossover setups.

What is the advantage of using linear phase EQ for crossover filters?

Linear phase EQ is particularly helpful when creating custom crossover filters because it avoids phase shifts at the crossover frequency, maintaining a flat frequency response across different filter slopes. This makes it easier to achieve a consistent and clean result, especially with multi-band crossovers.

What role does saturation play in EQ selection?

Saturation adds harmonics to a sound, which can help address issues like muddiness or harshness in low or high frequencies. When you need a more colorful or textured sound, EQs like Slick EQ or Volcano 3, which offer subtle saturation, can be used to add warmth or thickness to your mix.

How does NOVA's dynamic EQ functionality differ from Pro-Q3?

NOVA is designed as a dynamic EQ, meaning its processing is based on dynamics and changes over time, allowing it to adapt to varying input signals. Pro-Q3, on the other hand, is a conventional EQ with added dynamic features. The dynamic behavior of NOVA is why it works better for processing in parallel, as it reduces unwanted artifacts that could accumulate in series.