stayc main image

Deciphering "Bad idea, right?" by Olivia Rodrigo

August 15, 2023

By now we all know Olivia Rodrigo, the teenage sensation who has taken the music industry by storm. She has a gift for capturing the deep emotions of youth in her songs. In her hit track "Good 4 u,"..

Read more
stayc main image

Laufey's "From the Start": A TikTok-Propelled Success Story

August 15, 2023

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the music industry, the power of social media platforms in catapulting songs to unprecedented fame is undeniable. Laufey's hit single "From the Start"

Read more
stayc main image

ITZY’s ‘Kill My Doubt’ Sweetens the Stage

August 15, 2023

Superstar K-pop group ITZY is a 5-member group consisting of Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryoung and Yuna who have released their long-awaited mini album ‘Kill My Doubt’. ITZY has come across much success..

Read more
stayc main image

Somi Returns with a Catchy ‘Game Plan’

August 10, 2023

Somi is one of Korea’s most successful solo artists in the industry who placed first after competing in a survival show ‘Produce 101’ and debuting with K-pop group ‘I.O.I’...

Read more
stayc main image

Dua Lipa's Sleeper Hits

August 10, 2023

Dua Lipa, the talented British singer, and songwriter, has made an indelible mark on the music industry with her chart-topping hits that resonate with audiences around the world. Her discography...

Read more
stayc main image

Chief Keef: The Pioneer of Trap Music

August 10, 2023

Chief Keef stands as a trailblazing figure who reshaped the genre and introduced a new wave of music known as drill. Being raised in Chicago's South Side, Chief Keef's rise to fame...

Read more
stayc main image

The Irresistible Allure of Fuji Kaze's "Shinunoga E-Wa"

August 9, 2023

If you're currently nodding your head in agreement, then you're likely familiar with the captivating melody of Fuji Kaze's "Shinunoga E-Wa." Released as part of his debut album "HELP EVER HURT...

Read more
stayc main image

Travis Scott’s Long-Awaited Album: Utopia

August 8, 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, few artists have managed to captivate and redefine the genre quite like Travis Scott. Known for his innovative sound, genre-blurring approach...

Read more
stayc main image

Playboi Carti and His Influence on The Music Industry

August 7, 2023

Born Jordan Terrell Carter on September 13, 1996, Carti's introduction to music began at an early age, as he dabbled in both writing and formulating beats. However, it wasn't until he gained...

Read more
stayc main image

Tory Lanez's "Hurts Me"; A Srategic Move or a Sincere Effort?

August 7, 2023

In June, Tory Lanez made headlines by dropping a fresh single titled "Hurt Me," a creation that emerged from behind bars as he awaits his sentencing in the Megan Thee Stallion shooting case...

Read more
stayc main image

Gracie Abrams: From Minor to Good Riddance

August 7, 2023

Gracie Abrams, the talented singer-songwriter, has mesmerised listeners with her introspective and emotive music since her debut album "Minor." Recently, she released her latest offering...

Read more
stayc main image

Barbie Soundtrack Takes the World by Storm

August 7, 2023

The new Barbie movie has not only captured the hearts of audiences with its enchanting storyline and vibrant animation but has also ignited a musical phenomenon...

Read more

EQ in Practice: How to Use Subtractive EQ to Clean Up Muddy Mixes

stayc main image

Mixing music is an art, and one of the most essential tools for achieving clarity in a mix is the equalizer (EQ). One technique, in particular, known as subtractive EQ, can work wonders for cleaning up "muddy" mixes that may lack clarity or sound cluttered. Let’s dive into how to use subtractive EQ effectively and how it can transform your sound.

What is Subtractive EQ?

Subtractive EQ is the process of cutting or reducing specific frequencies in your audio mix, rather than boosting them. It’s based on the idea that sometimes the best way to make an instrument or track sound better is to remove unwanted frequencies, allowing the desired ones to shine through.

For example, when mixing, a common issue is "muddy" low frequencies (usually between 100Hz and 300Hz) that clutter the mix and make it sound less defined. By cutting these problem frequencies, you can make room for other elements to breathe and maintain clarity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Subtractive EQ:

  1. Identify the Problem Area:
    Start by isolating the track that sounds muddy. Use a parametric EQ plugin, which allows you to visualize and adjust frequencies. Sweep through the frequency spectrum by boosting a narrow band of frequencies and listening for areas that sound harsh or cluttered. Once identified, cut those frequencies instead of boosting others.
  2. Cut Before Boosting:
    A common mistake for beginners is to immediately boost frequencies to make something sound "better." However, boosting too much can result in a crowded and noisy mix. It’s always better to cut problem areas first before deciding if boosting is necessary.
  3. High-Pass Filters for Low-End Clarity:
    Sometimes the low-end of instruments (below 80Hz) can clash, causing the mix to feel muddy. Using a high-pass filter on non-bass instruments like guitars or vocals can remove unnecessary low-end rumble, freeing up space for the bass and kick drum.
  4. Balance and Subtlety:
    Subtractive EQ should be used subtly. Overdoing it can make your mix sound thin. Aim for small, precise cuts rather than broad strokes. A few decibels can make a big difference in cleaning up a mix.

Example of Famous Producers Using Subtractive EQ

Many world-class producers rely on subtractive EQ to achieve professional-quality mixes. Take Dave Pensado, for instance, a Grammy-winning mix engineer. He is known for his subtle but impactful use of EQ in mixes. By cutting unwanted frequencies in vocals or instruments, he creates a clean and polished sound that allows each element to sit well in the mix.

Another example is Deadmau5, a well-known electronic music producer who emphasizes the importance of EQ in his workflow. He often mentions that cutting unwanted low-end and mud from synths and drum tracks is key to creating the clean, powerful sound he’s known for.

Conclusion: Clean Up Your Mix with Subtractive EQ

Subtractive EQ is a powerful technique that, when used properly, can clear up muddy mixes and enhance the overall clarity of your tracks. By cutting problem frequencies rather than boosting others, you’ll find that your instruments and vocals have more room to breathe, resulting in a more professional-sounding mix.

This approach provides a solution to an issue that many beginner and intermediate producers face, backed by real-world examples of famous producers who use subtractive EQ to elevate their music.