Parametric EQ as mastering tool

  • Thread starter Thread starter BedeDazzle
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BedeDazzle

BedeDazzle

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I record on a Tascam 488 and mix down onto an MKii DAT. I know parametric EQ can be useful for recording instruments into the 8 track initially, but how useful are they as a final mixing tool for reducing tape hiss/bringing out and receding certain tones in the mix?
 
I'd venture to guess that good quality parametric EQ has probably in the mastering chain the vast majority of commercial releases over the past 30+ years.

One of the classics is the Sontec, you can read about it here: http://totalsonicmastering.com/sontec.htm

The engineer George Massenburg is considered one of the pioneers of parmetric EQ design. Here's a Q&A with him on the subject:
http://www.mercenary.com/pareqbygeorm.html

And yep they can help with tape hiss in some cases and also can help the tracks sit together better. With a cassette 4-track like the 488 it's probably not a good idea to boost high frequencies to already-recorded tracks though.

What type of parametric EQ were you planning on using?
 
hey thanks for the information--those were informative links. unfortunately my price range is probably 200-400, so it's hard to say if such a device would add enough improvement to be worth the value.

what makes it tough is that you'd really have to sit down and experiment with your recording process--you can't just like try one out at a guitar center. i think i may just buy one with good reviews and then i could always return it.

thanks for your input
 
Hey, no prob.
I should also mention that a lot of folks here seem to love the Tascam PE-40 4-channel parametric EQ (I've never had the chance to try one). I think you'd be able to find one used for a price that's well within your budget.
 
Cool, ok thanks--I'll definitely do some research on those. It'll be a good place to start for now. Thanks!
 
dont forget

Dont forget about Orban parametric EQs.
 
I was just going to mention the Orbans. They sound great and you can find them for reasonable prices. You also might consider taking the budget and upgrading to a 1/2 inch 8 track machine. Using a better machine at the beginning definitely improves the sound at the end.
 
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