EQ Explained in 10 Minutes ... or it's free

Summary

This video offers a concise introduction to equalizers (EQs), explaining their role in adjusting specific frequency volumes. It covers the basics of EQ, including frequency selection, volume manipulation, and shape control with filters, shelves, and bells. The tutorial demonstrates practical applications, such as fixing issues in vocal recordings by cutting unwanted frequencies and enhancing instruments like pianos by adding brightness or adjusting low-end frequencies. It emphasizes the importance of using EQ judiciously to avoid over-processing and encourages producers to train their ears for effective EQ usage.

Takeaways

• 🎚️ EQ stands for equalizer, and it adjusts the volume of specific frequencies in audio.
• 🔊 A basic EQ plugin, like the stock Logic Pro EQ or vintage-style EQs, alters sound frequencies but varies in visual style.
• 📊 The three main controls of an EQ are frequency, volume, and shape.
• 🎶 Frequencies are measured in hertz (Hz) and relate directly to pitch (e.g., 440 Hz = A note).
• 📉 Volume control lets you boost or reduce the volume of specific frequencies, measured in decibels (dB).
• 📐 EQ shapes include filters, shelves, and bell curves, which determine how the frequency range is affected.
• 🎛️ The Q control adjusts the width of the bell curve, allowing precise control over frequency ranges.
• 🗣️ EQ is useful for cleaning up vocals by removing unwanted frequencies, like 'woofy' sounds around 200 Hz.
• 🎹 EQ helps balance instruments like pianos, boosting or cutting frequencies to enhance sound clarity.
• ⚠️ Overuse of EQ, especially with many bands, can harm the overall sound, so careful adjustments are crucial.

Q & A

What does EQ stand for and what is its primary function?

EQ stands for Equalizer, and its primary function is to alter the volume of specific frequencies.

What are the three primary controls that every EQ has?

The three primary controls of an EQ are frequency, volume, and shape.

How are frequencies measured in EQ and what do they relate to?

Frequencies in EQ are measured in Hertz, which are directly related to pitch.

What is the purpose of a high pass filter in EQ?

A high pass filter in EQ is used to cut everything below a set frequency, eliminating the lower frequencies from the sound.

What is a shelf in EQ and how does it affect the sound?

A shelf in EQ boosts or reduces frequencies in a shelf-like shape, creating a plateau effect rather than entirely adding or removing frequencies.

What is a bell shape in EQ and how is it used?

A bell shape in EQ is used to boost or cut frequencies in a specific range, and its width can be controlled with the Q factor or cue control.

How does boosting EQ affect the overall volume of a sound?

Boosting EQ increases the overall volume of the sound, which can lead to clipping if not monitored properly.

What is the practical application of EQ in removing undesirable frequencies from a vocal recording?

EQ can be used to remove undesirable frequencies, such as a mid-range woofy sound, from a vocal recording by cutting those specific frequencies.

How can EQ be used to train your ears to identify problem frequencies in a sound?

EQ can be used to train your ears by boosting a narrow band bell to clearly hear specific frequencies and then sweeping through them to identify where the problem lies.

Why is it important to be cautious when using multiple bands on an EQ?

It's important to be cautious when using multiple bands on an EQ because making unnecessary EQ adjustments can often result in a worse sound quality.

What is the recommended approach when using EQ to enhance a sound like a piano?

When using EQ to enhance a sound like a piano, it's recommended to identify specific frequencies that need adjustment, either by cutting or boosting, to add color or correct issues without overdoing it.