Equalizers (EQs) are one of the foundational audio editing tools that shape the frequency content of almost every audio project. Before you rush into buying third-party EQ plugins, don’t dismiss the capabilities of the EQ plugins native to Logic Pro.
Logic Pro equips you with all the EQ tools you need to produce a professional sound. To help you do so, we’ll show you how they work before going over their differences and uses.
Channel EQ and Linear Phase EQ
The Channel EQ (also known as a Parametric EQ) and Linear Phase EQ in Logic Pro have the exact same display and parameters. you may even swap one out for the other and maintain all your changes.
These EQs provide eight colored frequency bands and control points as well as a real-time frequency analyzer. You can activate five filter types with these points: a low- and high-cut filter, a low- and high-shelf filter, and four parametric (bell) filters. Drag the control points to set the frequency (horizontal axis), and cut or boost the gain of specific frequencies (vertical axis). To quickly reset a control point, pressAlt.
Parameters
You may prefer Channel EQs for their more subtle sonic touch and greater precision when boosting or cutting frequencies. Linear Phase EQs, on the other hand, impart the least amount of sonic coloration, which makes them great for transparent editing and mastering.
For an in-depth guide on filter types, the frequency spectrum, and use of filter sweeps, see our guide onhow to use EQs to improve your audio.
Single Band EQ
Instead of eight frequency bands, the Single Band EQ lets you alter just one. It works just like the above EQs if you were using just one control point and whichever filter type.
The benefits of this EQ type are that it is less CPU-intensive and can be better for quick fixes. If you’re looking to alleviate the load on your CPU, see our guide onhow to improve Logic Pro performance on your Mac.
Vintage EQs in Logic Pro
Vintage EQs add the most sonic color and harmonic distortion, so experimentation is a great way to find which one’s best when you want that extra character. Before we get into the specifics of each Vintage EQ in Logic, let’s cover the parameters they all share in common:
Vintage Console EQ
The Vintage Console EQ offers you simplicity with a sonically smooth vintage touch. You can manipulate four frequency bands and four filter types (as seen in the filter buttons along the top). If you find it too clean-sounding, try boosting theDriveor choose a different output model.
Vintage Graphic EQ
The Vintage Graphic EQ offers you 10 frequency bands and sliders you can drag vertically to cut and boost them. This EQ works great for quickly correcting and enhancing the sound of a room and is frequently used for live performances. Drag theTunenumber to proportionally scale the frequency of all sliders up or down.
Vintage Tube EQ
The Vintage Tube EQ combines two pieces of old-school hardware in one, leading to two EQ circuits. This EQ offers perhaps the warmest touch, and it can add great depth to your mix. See our guide on thedifferent kinds of audio distortionfor more ways to impart warmth and grit to your mix.
Upper Circuit Parameters
Lower Circuit Parameters
Match EQ differs from all the EQs we’ve looked at so far as it specializes in a different area: identifying differences between two sets of audio and applying EQ curves to match them.
This makes Match EQ a great tool for learning and referencing your tracks with other works similar in style to yours. Another example of usage includes using it to match up the sound of separate recordings made with the same instrument.
For a more in-depth look at the strengths and quirks of each type of EQ, see our non-Logic-specific guide on thedifferent types of EQs.
Refine Your Audio With the EQ Tools in Logic Pro
Logic Pro provides versatile EQ tools with which to sculpt and improve your audio. Use the Channel and Linear Phase EQ for precision and a light sonic touch. For a quick fix, use the Single Band EQ.
Then, use Vintage EQs for their distinct rich colors and learn from references with Match EQ. Master these fundamental tools, and your creativity will flourish from a great foundation.
