Compression or EQing?

[The Engineer]

Now which is better to do first? Let's say you compress first then EQ and say you add some boost to your Hi's .. wouldn't that ruin the compression you just did? and if you EQ first then compress ... wouldn't compresion make it a bit more bassier .. so you have to re-EQ it?

Please someone clear this up for me ...

Thank you

 

[Chris Shaeffer]

Whatever sounds best.

I know that's not a helpful answer, but its the only right one. It just totally depends on the situation. Sometimes I compress to change attack characteristics then EQ once I know what that sounds like. Sometimes it sounds more natural to EQ into the compressor, though. (shrug)

One example of EQ before compession is low cut. If you're taking low end out of a signal that has significant low frequency content do it before compression so that low energy won't trip the compressor at the wrong time.

I guess the same would apply to any serious frequency control- if you're really cutting up the sound of something and sculpting it with the EQ, compress it later.

Anyway- knida rambling a bit but hopefully at least a little helpful.
C

 

[Massive Master]

I'm in that boat (I think )

"Rule of thumb:" Corrective EQ before compression (taking out noises, hiss, overtones, boomies, softening sibilance, etc.).

"Shaping" EQ after compression (adding "air" or a little extra thump, etc.).

 

[The Engineer]

Alright, Thanks Fella's. I always EQ first, then compress. When I EQ It's never a drastic boost or drop, usually just a low-end cut, then tweak the mids and hi's.

Thanks for the help, It's appreciated.

 

[crispycutz]

"Rule of thumb:" Corrective EQ before compression (taking out noises, hiss, overtones, boomies, softening sibilance, etc.).

"Shaping" EQ after compression (adding "air" or a little extra thump, etc.).

Profound....





wow...





Zenlike....

 

[Monzerelli]

Eq Before Compression!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[The Green Hornet]

YO Monz"

Chiasmatic word structures are cool.

Green Hornet