How to EQ Vocals Into a Song

Equalize a vocal performance to help it blend into a song.

In order to help vocals fit into the context of a mix, it is important to know how to shape them with EQ. Through EQ, or equalization, you can add clarity, presence and brilliance to a vocal to make it shine in a mix. You can also take away unpleasant frequencies from the vocal, helping it sit better in the mix of a song.

Instructions

1. Cut the equalizer anywhere from 60 to 200 Hz. Reducing the low-frequency content of the vocal will increase its clarity. Reducing the frequencies at 60 Hz and below will get rid of unwanted low-frequency content. Reducing the frequencies above 60 Hz can help thin out a vocal that is too thick and muddy-sounding.

2. Boost the equalizer at or around 3 KHz to add clarity to an undefined-sounding vocal. This frequency range is very sensitive to human ears, so a small boost will usually have a significant impact in vocal clarity.

3. Boost the equalizer at or around 5 KHz to add presence to a dull-sounding vocal.

4. Boost the equalizer anywhere from 10 to 15 KHz to add air and breath to the vocal sound. This will often give an enhanced and brilliant-sounding top end to the vocal.

References

• Recording EQ; Recommended Equalization Frequencies; Robert Dennis; 1998