Mixing In Context Part One: Using EQ To Create Balance

Over the next few weeks I'm going to be doing a series on mixing tracks within the context of the mix. This is such a huge aspect of mixing that many people seem to miss. As you learn how to mix in context your mixes will begin to flourish and it well help you get a more cohesive mix.

Today we're going to look at using EQ to create balance within the mix.

EQ is a wonderful tool. I use it probably more than I do anything else, and it has a wide array of applications within a mix. One very important aspect that can often be overlooked, is using EQ to create balance within a mix.

So what do I mean by balance?

I mean that EQ can help certain tracks sit together more comfortably by utilizing control of the frequencies. For instance, if you have two electric guitars in a mix, you can find a particular frequency that you like and do a subtle boost (about 3db) on one and a subtle cut (about 3db) on the other. What this will do is help each one to sit together more properly.

Now these sort of techniques are subtle, but will add up when done to a lot of tracks. Use these sort of tricks on things like multiple backup vocals, dual electric or acoustic parts, etc. You'll start to hear this nice subtle separation of your tracks, but by keeping it subtle you won't be changing the tonality too much.

So remember when you are using EQ on your tracks, keep in mind what frequencies you are boosting and cutting in relation to other instruments and how you can use EQ to help the instruments sit more nicely together.

I'll be posting a video tutorial soon on doing this so be on the look out!

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