"Intelligent" EQ Shootout - Gullfoss vs SmartEQ3 vs Soothe vs Smooth Operator!

Summary

In this YouTube video by Matthew from Advice.com, he compares four intelligent equalizers: Sonable Smart EQ3, Oak Sound Soothe 2, Sound Theory GFOS EQ, and Baby Audio Smooth Operator. Each EQ is tested on a complex vocal track with varying tones and resonances. Matthew evaluates how each EQ balances tones and addresses problematic resonances, offering insights into their effectiveness and ideal use cases in audio mixing.

Takeaways

• 🎛️ Matthew from Advice.com compares four intelligent equalizers: Sonable Smart EQ3, iZotope Ozone's Soothe 2, Sound Theory GFOS EQ, and Baby Audio Smooth Operator.
• 🎵 He uses a complex vocal track with varying tones and moving resonances to test the capabilities of each EQ.
• 🔍 The Smart EQ3 aims to create a balanced vocal sound by analyzing the original recording and suggesting adjustments.
• 🎚️ Soothe 2 is designed to target and process specific resonances, but Matthew notes it's not ideal for broad band adjustments.
• 📊 GFOS EQ is primarily for overall mix enhancement, but it can also be used for individual tracks with a unique approach to EQ.
• 🎶 The Smooth Operator offers a dynamic EQ solution that balances tone but may require additional EQ for specific resonance issues.
• 🛠️ Matthew emphasizes that no EQ can replace the need for manual editing and suggests treating different vocal tones as separate tracks.
• ⚙️ Each EQ tool has its strengths and is best suited for specific tasks, highlighting the importance of understanding their individual purposes.
• 🔧 The video concludes with the message that there's no secret trick in mixing; it requires identifying what needs to be heard and putting in the work to achieve it.
• 🎖️ All the EQs are deemed great in their own right, with the best choice depending on the mixing task at hand.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video by Matthew from Advice.com?

The video focuses on comparing four intelligent equalizers, which are capable of dynamically reacting to source material with intricate detail.

What are the four intelligent equalizers mentioned in the video?

The four intelligent equalizers mentioned are Sonable Smart EQ3, Oak Sound Soothe 2, Sound Theory GFOS EQ, and Baby Audio Smooth Operator.

What is the specific challenge Matthew describes with the vocal track he is working on?

The challenge is a comped vocal track with varying delivery styles, tones, and mic proximities, resulting in a wide array of tone curves and moving resonances.

How does Matthew describe the effect of using a typical Dynamic EQ on the vocal track?

Using a typical Dynamic EQ results in a 'vacuum effect' and introduces phase shift distortion, making the vocal sound grainy and messy.

What is the primary function of Sonable Smart EQ3 as explained in the video?

Smart EQ3 is designed to create a blueprint for a balanced vocal sound by analyzing the original recording and dynamically adjusting to it.

How does Oak Sound Soothe 2 differ from the other equalizers in the video?

Soothe 2 is primarily for targeting specific moving resonances and is not intended for broad band adjustments or tone balancing.

What does Matthew caution about using Oak Sound Soothe 2 incorrectly?

Matthew cautions that Soothe 2 is a strong processor that can easily be overused, leading to intermodulation distortion and an unnatural sound.

What is the intended use of Sound Theory GFOS EQ according to the video?

GFOS EQ is designed to make the fullest, best representation of the sound rather than just balancing it, making it more suitable for overall mixes.

How does Baby Audio Smooth Operator compare to the other equalizers in the shootout?

Smooth Operator is described as a compromise between the capabilities of Smart EQ3 and GFOS, providing a consistent sound but not specifically targeting narrow moving resonances.

What is Matthew's ultimate recommendation for dealing with complex vocal tracks?

Matthew recommends treating different tone curves as separate vocals, applying targeted processing to each, and using destructive editing to remove unwanted resonances.

What does Matthew emphasize as the 'secret' to achieving a great mix in the end?

Matthew emphasizes that there is no magic trick; the secret to a great mix is hard work, identifying what needs to be heard, and doing the necessary work to achieve the desired results.