124. EQ Basics

Key takeaways

Understanding the basics of sound, frequency, and amplitude is crucial for effective audio mixing.
Practical application of EQ techniques, such as knowing when to cut or boost frequencies, enhances sound quality.
Proper microphone placement and phase considerations are essential to avoid problems such as feedback and cancelation.
Continuous learning and practical experience are key to mastering audio engineering and sound mixing.

Summary

Understanding Sound and EQ Basics

In this episode, James and Gary dive into the fundamentals of equalization (EQ) for audio, emphasizing its importance in achieving quality sound in houses of worship. They discuss what sound is, how it moves through the air, and how we perceive frequency and amplitude. James explains sound waves in simple terms, using analogies that make the concepts accessible even to beginners. This foundational knowledge serves as a springboard to explore EQ in detail.

Practical EQ Techniques

The hosts provide listeners with practical techniques for using EQ effectively. They discuss different EQ shapes like bell curves, high-pass, and low-pass filters, their uses, and how to set appropriate gain levels. They emphasize the decisive role of frequency balance in mixing and guide on how to adjust EQ settings to enhance sound quality, including narrowing cuts for problematic frequencies and widening boosts for natural sound.

Common Pitfalls in Sound Mixing

During the episode, James and Gary also highlight potential pitfalls when working with EQ, including issues of phase cancellation. They clarify the difference between phase and polarity and the significance of microphone placement. The discussion warns against relying too heavily on EQ to fix problematic sounds, stressing the importance of proper mic technique and setup as foundational elements in achieving clear sound.

The Importance of Continuous Learning

The hosts conclude with reminders about the importance of continuous learning in audio engineering. James mentions resources like quiz tone apps to improve understanding of EQ, emphasizing the need to rely on what sounds good rather than solely on technical appearances of EQ curves on consoles. They reiterate that mastering these basics can provide significant value in both live sound contexts and personal growth in audio skills.

Show notes

In Episode 124, the hosts go back to the basics with one of the foundational blocks of processing audio: equalization (EQ). Discussion revolves around what EQ actually is, when you need to use it, and ultimately how to use it correctly. The Church Sound Podcast is sponsored by DiGiCo and Renkus-Heinz.

Check out James Attaway’s worship audio academy at www.attawayaudio.com/academy, and also visit our new Instagram page @churchsoundpodcast.

Co-host James Attaway is the author of the Live Mixing Field Guide, a quick-start guide to EQ, compression and effects. Find more from James on the Attaway Audio YouTube Channel and at AttawayAudio.com. Reach him on IG @attawayaudio or contact him via email here.

Co-host Gary Zandstra has worked in church production as an AV systems integrator and as a manufacturer’s rep for more than 35 years.