">
">
Equalization (EQ) often takes time for beginners to master. It will likely require a fair amount of trial and error, a good ear and plenty of learning hours before you can figure out the golden frequency bands for various instruments. The good news is that an EQ cheat sheet can help you figure it all out quickly.
What is EQ?
EQ is the process of using a plugin or software to manipulate the different frequencies or range of frequencies found in a particular audio signal or audio mix. Typically, the human ear can detect frequencies ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz. An equalizer divides this frequency spectrum into different bands. This makes it easier to alter the balance of a mix's different frequency components in the following ways.
- Cutting - This is called subtractive EQ and it involves finding a problematic frequency, then reducing it.
- Boosting - When you need to add extra oomph to recorded instruments, boosting helps you gain the desired characteristics.
- Filtering - Here you'll be removing a particular frequency completely - for example, when you remove low or high frequencies from an audio signal.
Why is EQ Important in Music?
Equalization is often the first port of call for engineers and producers who want a mix that's nicely put together. You can use this EQ cheat sheet to become more efficient at creating mixes that sound professional. But what makes EQ such a great and important tool in music?
In a nutshell, EQ allows you to get rid of imperfections in an audio signal, sound or song, leaving everything balanced and clear. As noted, this can be achieved by reducing or eliminating unwanted frequencies while boosting others. Equalization gives you control over the final audio, so you'll have those optimal vocal and instrument sound frequencies you want, that are pleasant to the ear.
EQ Cheat Sheet for 10 Common Instruments
Different instruments will have varying optimal EQs. This is because various instruments will create vastly different sounds and frequencies. So it makes sense that how they work with synthesizing will also vary.
The EQ cheat sheet below is by no means a rule of thumb. Depending on the mix you're looking to create, you may find that some of the numbers can fall outside these "recommended" ranges. That said, here’s a detailed EQ range list for some of the most popular instruments:
Vocals
- 100 Hz and below - Rumble, which is undesirable
- 120 Hz - Fullness
- 200 to 240 Hz - Boom
- 800 to 1 kHz - Word Clarity
- 3 to 5 kHz - Presence
- 4 to 8 kHz - Sibilance
- 10 to 15 kHz - Air
Electric Guitar
- 80 or 90 Hz and below - Muddiness
- 150 to 200 Hz - Thickness
- 240 to 10,000 Hz - Fullness
- 1.5 to 2.5 kHz - Presence
- 3 to 8 kHz - Brilliance
Acoustic Guitar
- 80 Hz - Fullness
- 120 to 200 Hz - Body
- 240 to 400 Hz - Thickness
- 2 to 5 kHz - Definition or harshness
- 7 kHz - Air and Sparkle
Bass Guitar
- 40 to 80 Hz - Bottom resonances
- 80 to 200 Hz - Fundamentals
- 200 to 600 Hz - Overtones
- 300 to 500 Hz - Woodiness
- 800 to 1.6 kHz - Bite
- 2 to 5 kHz - String noise
Piano
- 100 to 200 Hz - Boom
- 800 to 1,000 Hz - Bark (electric piano)
- 3 kHz and above - Presence
Drums
Kick Drum
- 50 to 60 Hz - Bottom
- 60 to 100 Hz - Thump
- 100 to 200 Hz - Body
- 400 to 2,000 Hz - Hollowness
- 3 to 5 kHz - Beater attack
Snare
- 200 to 400 Hz - Body/Bottom
- 400 to 800 Hz - Ring
- 900 to 4,000 Hz - Point/Attack
- 5 kHz - Crispness
- 10 kHz - Snap
Toms
- 240 to 500 Hz - Fullness/Body
- 3 to 7 kHz - Attack
Cymbals
- 200 to 300 Hz - Clang
- 6 to 10 kHz - Sparkle/Sizzle
Horns
Saxes
- 300 to 400 Hz - Honk
- 1 to 2 kHz - Squawk
- 6 kHz - Reed noise
Brass
- 100 to 200 Hz - Boom/Mud
- 4 to 10 kHz - Brightness
Strings
- 240 Hz - Fullness
- 7 to 10 kHz - Scratchiness
Organ
- 80 Hz - Fullness
- 240 Hz - Body
- 2 to 5 kHz - Presence
Conga/Percussion
- 200 Hz - Ring
- 5 kHz - Slap
EQ Frequency Chart
To make it easier to create a balanced frequency chart music, it also helps to have a summary of the EQ recommendations for each instrument. Use this handy EQ chart that follows:
|
Not everyone will take the same approach on EQ - the truth is, you can ask a dozen people and get a dozen different opinions when it comes to which sound is “right.” The best approach to take when it comes to mixing elements is to experiment. Take risks, use this EQ cheat sheet as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to trust yourself. And above all, be patient. Not getting it right the first time may just be the best thing you’ll ever do when it comes to your music.
Looking for a passive mixer? You can shop our line of Passive PA/DJ Mixers Here
Ready to get in the studio and start creating? Seismic Audio has all your gear - from amps and mixers to cables and more. Check out our full selection of Pro Audio gear today.