Music Production 101: What is EQ? | Audio Equalization Guide

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Music Production 101: What is EQ?

Section	Content	Key Action/Tip (What to Do Today)
I. What is EQ?	Equalization is a volume knob for specific sound frequencies. It doesn't make things louder; it makes things clearer by removing competing frequencies.	Golden Rule: EQ is about subtraction first, addition second.
II. The Three Conflict Zones	1. The Rumble: Below 100 Hz (Too much here creates low-end mud.)	2. The Mud: 200 Hz - 500 Hz (Clashing low-mids make everything sound boxy.)
	3. The Air: Above 5,000 Hz (Adding a little here gives shine, but too much is harsh.)	Pro Tip: Listen to a reference track to compare your mix's overall brightness.
III. The Power Tool: High-Pass Filter	The High-Pass Filter (HPF) cuts out all low frequencies below a certain point. It is the number one tool for cleaning a mix.	Action Tip: Use an HPF on almost every track without a kick drum or bass (e.g., Vocals, Pads, Hi-Hats, Keys). Start at 80 Hz and sweep up until the track sounds cleaner but not thin.
IV. Today's Challenge	Your Mission: Apply an HPF to your project's three non-bass/kick tracks.