
This way I can move where the frequencies are in a more 3D space, and the effect is usually more desirable (to me at least) than just slapping a shelf eq on the master. Sometimes I’ll ask for very transparent mastering, but I often enjoy a touch of coloration and tonal shaping on my tracks.īonus time: I will often use mid side EQ and MS compression, mixed with something like a clariphonic to adjust the highs and lows within the stereo image. Learn how to use eq for maximum impact on the dancefloor, make your synths and basses fill out your song, learn how to make sure your kick drums cut through the. I do this because my engineer has some analogue equipment that I really enjoy that adds some air and sheen on the top end that I just can’t quite recreate at the mix level.įor me, as long as my mix is balanced and clear, I like to let my mastering engineer have an influence on it in most cases. If you’re sending it to a mastering engineer you trust, then sometimes I’ll bounce out a version with my shelving EQ on for reference, but have them work on the version that feels more bland. Often I’ll do sweeps or cuts to see what channels in the mix I need to adjust. These tools have been used since the mid 60s to design and build audio equipment.

The original spectrum analyzers were technical devices meant to evaluate a wide range of signal types in traditional engineering.

Obviously no right or wrongs here, but I’ll give you my two cents on my process over the last 15 years regarding master bus eq.įirst and foremost, I use an eq on the master bus as more of a problem finding tool. A spectrum analyzer is a tool that lets you visualize the frequency balance of a signal.
