What does EQ do in Music Production?

In music production, we often hear about ‘EQ’ or ‘equalization’. But what exactly is equalization and how can it transform your music as part of a professional mixing and mastering in Los Angeles?

What is EQ?

EQ refers to a tool that enables you to adjust the frequencies of a piece of audio. Our ears can hear a wide range of frequencies, which extend from very low bass sounds to high-pitched vocals and instruments. The way frequencies interact can either make or break a song.

Why do musicians need to use EQ in mixing and mastering?

There are several reasons why EQ is used when mixing a recording. It’s important to remember that equalization can only shape what is there. EQ can’t remove fundamental issues with a song - these will need a deeper edit through mixing and mastering in Los Angeles with a professional sound engineer. 

Adjust and augment frequencies

Frequencies can often be off-kilter within recordings.There may be parts that sound too piercing, booming or distant - and these can all be indications the music needs equalization. 

An overly piercing instrument is likely to have an issue at the high-end of the frequency range, and may need to be equalized to curb the highest frequencies. 

The change required will depend on the individual instruments and tracks, so adjustments should be made with the utmost care. 

Less is more. Raising the bass to resolve the issue could add more clutter to the track, so instead, the highest frequencies may need to be cut back.

All these complexities need to be considered when equalizing a track. For a professional mixing and mastering in Los Angeles, get in touch with Union Recording Studio today!

Prevent frequency masking

The different sounds that instruments make are referred to as their ‘timbre’. Two instruments can have drastically different timbres, but similar frequencies. 

If the frequencies are too similar, particularly on the same melody, this can lead to what is known as masking. 

Masking essentially occurs when a sound is masked by another sound, so that it becomes difficult to hear the instruments individually. 

With mixing and mastering in Los Angeles, equalization can be used to adjust frequencies to delineate clearly between instruments. 

Create a particular mood 

Every aspect of your mixing and mastering in Los Angeles should work together to support the mood of your music. 

If your song is meant to be moody and slow, then shrill, high-frequency instrumentation probably isn’t going to fit. Cutting the high-frequencies and boosting the lower bass sounds could help to develop the moody effect of the song. 

Tiny changes in EQ can make a huge difference. It’s best to work with a professional, as sound engineers have years of experience with EQ to bring your recordings to life. 

Looking for professional mixing and mastering in Los Angeles? Union Recording Studio features state-of-the-art equipment and experienced sound engineers to create the perfect mix and master for your tracks. Book a session today!