EQ Frequency Reference

Knowledge Base

How to Use the EQ Reference Guide

The EQ Reference Guide shows frequency ranges for all common instruments and vocals, with recommendations for boosting or cutting in mixing. Compare where your vocals sit relative to guitar, drums, and bass to prevent frequency masking.

Frequency Range Guide

• Kick Drum: 40-100 Hz (punch), 1-4 kHz (click/attack).
• Bass Guitar: 40-100 Hz (fundamental), 500-1k Hz (tone).
• Snare Drum: 150-250 Hz (body), 3-8 kHz (crack), 10k+ Hz (sizzle).
• Male Vocals: 80-200 Hz (fullness), 700-1k Hz (nasality), 3-5 kHz (presence).
• Female Vocals: 200-400 Hz (fullness), 1.5-3 kHz (nasality), 5-8 kHz (presence).
• Guitars: 80-200 Hz (body), 1-3 kHz (mid-range character), 5-12 kHz (brightness).
• Acoustic Piano: 40-150 Hz (lows), 200-800 Hz (mids), 2-8 kHz (highs/sparkle).

Mixing Strategy

Identify frequency conflicts (kick and bass both fighting at 80 Hz) and use surgical EQ to fix them. Avoid boosting the same frequency across multiple tracks. Instead, cut problem frequencies on one track and boost on another to carve out space.

The Mid-Range is Critical

The 500 Hz to 3 kHz range is where most detail and character lives. Too much makes your mix sound cheap. Too little sounds hollow. Use this range carefully and sparingly.

FAQ

Q: Should I use the same EQ settings for all male vocals?
A: No. Every voice is different. Use this guide as a starting point, then trust your ears and the specific voice you're mixing.

Q: How do I know if I need EQ?
A: Trust your ears. If something sounds off, identify why (too bassy? too bright? too nasal?) and address that specific frequency.