Master EQ and compression and you’re most of the way to better mixes. They sound technical, but the core ideas are simple once you separate what each tool actually does.
What EQ does
EQ (equalisation) adjusts the balance of frequencies in a sound. Boost to add character or air; cut to remove problems or make room for other instruments. As a rule, subtractive EQ (cutting) sounds more natural than piling on boosts.
- High-pass filter: removes low rumble from vocals, guitars and cymbals.
- Low mids (200-400 Hz): where mixes get muddy – small cuts clean things up.
- Presence and air (3-12 kHz): gentle boosts add clarity and sparkle.
What compression does
A compressor automatically turns down the loudest parts of a signal, reducing the gap between loud and quiet. The result is a more consistent, controlled sound that sits steadily in the mix. The key controls:
- Threshold: the level above which compression kicks in.
- Ratio: how hard it clamps down once over the threshold.
- Attack and release: how fast it reacts and recovers – shapes punch and feel.
- Make-up gain: brings the now-quieter signal back up.
Common beginner mistakes
Over-EQing (boosting everything), over-compressing (squashing the life out of a track), and mixing too loud. Go gently, make changes in context with the full mix playing, and reference often. Ready to put it together? Follow our beginner’s mixing guide.
