Today’s tip: when it comes to EQ in mastering, less is more.
Mastering EQ is not about reshaping a track. It’s about fine-tuning what’s already there. The goal is to make small adjustments that polish the overall sound, not rewrite it. If you find yourself reaching for big boosts or cuts, that’s a clear signal that something isn’t right in the mix itself.
Think of mastering EQ like using a magnifying glass. You’re zooming in to gently smooth harshness, tame muddiness, or add a touch of air and clarity. A dB here, half a dB there. Those moves might feel tiny, but they make all the difference in bringing a track from good to great without losing balance.
If your instincts are telling you to carve out whole frequency ranges or make dramatic tone shifts, resist the urge to fix it in mastering. Instead, go back into the mix session and solve the issue where it really lives. That way, your master stays clean, subtle, and true to the original vision.
Remember: a great master feels effortless. And that usually comes from subtle moves, not sweeping changes.
If you want to learn how to use EQ like a pro, check out this free 9 hour course on our YouTube channel!
Until next time,
Rob
