What are the best audio level equalization practices for a mix?

1 Understand the basics

Before you start equalizing your audio levels, you need to understand some basic concepts and terms. Equalization, or EQ, is the process of adjusting the frequency spectrum of a sound, either by boosting or cutting certain ranges of frequencies. The frequency spectrum is divided into three main bands: low, mid, and high. Each band affects different aspects of the sound, such as bass, warmth, presence, brightness, and harshness. You can use different types of EQ tools, such as graphic, parametric, or shelving EQ, to manipulate the frequency spectrum of your audio tracks.

2 Use reference tracks

One of the best ways to improve your audio level equalization skills is to use reference tracks. Reference tracks are professionally mixed and mastered audio files that you can compare with your own mix, and learn from their EQ choices. You can use reference tracks that are similar to your genre, style, or mood, and analyze how they balance the frequency spectrum, how they create contrast and separation between different elements, and how they avoid masking and clipping issues. You can use software like Reference or Magic AB to easily switch between your mix and your reference tracks.

3 Apply EQ in context

Another important tip for audio level equalization is to apply EQ in context, rather than in isolation. This means that you should always listen to how your EQ adjustments affect the whole mix, not just the individual track. Sometimes, what sounds good on a solo track may not work well in the mix, and vice versa. You should also consider the role and function of each track in the mix, and apply EQ accordingly. For example, if you want to emphasize the vocals, you may need to cut some mid-range frequencies from other instruments to create space for them.

4 Use subtractive EQ

A common mistake that beginners make when equalizing audio levels is to overuse additive EQ, which means boosting frequencies to make them louder or more prominent. While this may seem like a good idea, it can also introduce unwanted noise, distortion, and clipping, and make your mix sound muddy and unbalanced. A better approach is to use subtractive EQ, which means cutting frequencies to remove or reduce unwanted sounds, such as hiss, hum, rumble, or resonances. This can help you clean up your mix, create more headroom, and enhance the clarity and definition of your audio tracks.

5 Use EQ curves

Another useful technique for audio level equalization is to use EQ curves, which are graphical representations of how you adjust the frequency spectrum of a sound. EQ curves can help you visualize and shape the sound according to your goals and preferences. You can use different types of EQ curves, such as low-cut, high-cut, low-shelf, high-shelf, bell, or notch, to achieve different effects. For example, you can use a low-cut curve to filter out the low frequencies below a certain threshold, or a bell curve to boost or cut a specific frequency range.

6 Experiment and practice

The last tip for audio level equalization is to experiment and practice. There is no one-size-fits-all formula for EQ, and different mixes may require different EQ settings and strategies. The best way to learn and improve your EQ skills is to try different things, listen to the results, and make adjustments as needed. You can also use online resources, such as tutorials, courses, or blogs, to learn more about EQ theory and practice, and get feedback from other audio producers and listeners.