This article explains frequency-control features in FabFilter Pro-Q 2. Spectrum Grab lets you adjust frequencies visually using the analyzer during playback or while stopped. EQ Match uses a sidechain to apply the frequency characteristics of a reference track to another track, helping you match tones across tracks or approximate a reference sound. The article also links to sidechain setup instructions for major DAWs, including Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Studio One and Ableton Live.
Pro-Q 2: New Frequency Features
Following the previous article we continue our look at FabFilter Pro-Q 2.
This time we focus on frequency controls.
They are unique and useful, so give them a try.
FabFilter Pro-Q Tutorial Videos
Spectrum Grab
This feature lets you edit frequencies while viewing them in the analyzer.
Enable the highlighted section of the Analyzer.
This activates Spectrum Grab.
During playback, release the mouse over the frequency display and wait briefly.
The spectrum will become darker.
Drag a peak up or down
to boost or cut it by the desired amount.
You can also enable Freeze so that
you can continue to use Spectrum Grab after playback stops.
This is useful for making finer adjustments.
EQ Match
EQ Match analyzes the frequency spectrum of a particular track
and applies an EQ with a similar response to another track.
This feature uses sidechain routing.
Setup instructions for each DAW are linked below.
Here we will use Cubase as an example.
Insert FabFilter Pro-Q 2 on the track to which you want to apply the reference spectrum.
Enable the sidechain.
Send audio from the reference track to FabFilter Pro-Q 2.
Tip: To keep the reference track from being heard directly, set the send to pre-fader and turn the track volume down to zero.
Select EQ Match from the Analyzer.
The current track appears in pale white, the reference spectrum in red, and the difference in white.
Play at least 30 seconds so the plug-in can calculate the average spectrum.
If the difference is too small or too large,
adjust the send level.
Then click Match.
Choose the number of points used to represent the frequency curve.
Then click Finish.
An EQ curve based on the reference track is applied.
Sidechain Setup by DAW
Pro Tools
https://sleepfreaks-dtm.com/for-advance-protools/sidechain/
Logic
https://sleepfreaks-dtm.com/for-advance-logic/sidechain-2/
Cubase
https://sleepfreaks-dtm.com/for-advance-cubase/sidechain-3/
Studio One
https://sleepfreaks-dtm.com/for-advance-studioone/sidechain-studioone/
Ableton Live
https://sleepfreaks-dtm.com/arrange-view-live/sidechain-live/
FL Studio
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When is Spectrum Grab useful?
It is useful when you want to adjust EQ while visually tracking frequency changes in real time. Freeze keeps the feature available when playback stops, making detailed adjustments easier.
Q2. How long should I play the reference for EQ Match?
The article recommends playing the reference for at least 30 seconds to calculate an average frequency spectrum and produce a more reliable EQ curve.
Q3. What if the difference in EQ Match is too small or too large?
Adjust the DAW send level: increase it if the difference is too small, or decrease it if the difference is too large.
Q4. Does the article explain sidechain setup in FL Studio?
It links to a separate FL Studio sidechain tutorial that you can use as a reference.
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