fabfilter Pro-Q 3 New Functions Tutorial 2. Dynamic EQ
Making musical edits with Dynamic EQ
After our previous article on「M/S mode enhancements」, we will take a look at more new functions in fabfilter Pro-Q 3.
Let’s take a look at the「dynamic EQ」which is a big pull for this new version.
Dynamic EQ will adjust the amount of applied EQ depending on the frequency; a monumental new function.
It can be used for individual tracks, as well as applied onto the master track for EQ edits.
fabfilter Pro-Q 3 Dynami EQ Video Access
Applying dynamic EQ
Here we have applied Pro-Q 3 to the master track.
We want to add more clarity to the mix, so we’ve tried boosting the 7kHz range by 5db.
There’s definitely more clarity, but is slightly sharp/painful in some areas.
Dynamic EQ comes in handy in this situation.
Right click on a point and select「Make Dynamic」.
By doing this, the point is in dynamic EQ mode.
Another parameter point is shown apart from the EQ point.
This point can be moved by dragging it up/down. Here we’re set it to “0”.
When you press play, a a yellow line moving between the points appears.
This is the actual amount of applied EQ.
In general, an equalizer will apply the amount of EQ specified by the gain amount.
However, dynamic EQ changes how much gain is applied to a frequency depending on it’s volume, allowing for a more natural and musical effect.
When looking at the line, you can see it duck down when the snare is hit.
This is because the snare attack contains many elements in the 7kHz range, and means that 7kHz temporarily is louder when the snare is hit.
When the snare plays, the EQ boost is automatically lessened, making the sound less harsh, while keeping highs present when the snare isn’t playing.
The volume fluctuates between the eq point and the amount set with the dynamic point.
By setting a lower point, you can create an effect where the dynamic eq lowers a frequency when it goes over a certain volume as well.
Changing from Auto to Manual
The volume at which the dynamic EQ kicks in is auto determined within the plugin, but this can be set up manually as well.
Select a point and click「Auto」.
Drag the threshold slider, to make small adjustments to the dynamic eq “attack” (the timing at which it kicks in).
First try using Auto, and set it up if you aren’t getting your desired results.
To remove dynamic EQ, right click the point, and select「Clear Dynamics」.
We hope you enjoyed this article.
This dynamic EQ is a monumental function in the world of EQ, and provides great sound.
Please try it out on your next track!
We will take a look at the remaining new functions of「Brickwall Slope／Flat Tilt／Masking Detection」.
