Subtractive EQ Cheatsheet

What’s the difference between additive EQ and subtractive EQ?

● Additive EQ — what can I enhance, bring out, or add more of?

● Subtractive EQ — what can I remove that’s getting in the way?

There’s nothing “wrong” with additive EQ, but there are some key advantages to using
subtractive EQ:

1. You retain headroom, as you aren’t boosting the level of tracks when you cut.
2. There’s no increase in volume when you cut, which makes it easier to determine
whether or not you’re making the right EQ decisions.
3. Subtractive EQ helps you consider tracks in context and the mix “as a whole.”

There are two main ways to use subtractive EQ:

1. In the prep process, by using a technique I call “sweep and destroy.”

a. To learn how to apply this technique, watch t​ his video​.
2. While mixing, to eliminate competition between tracks.

Tips for using subtractive EQ successfully:

● Always listen to the track you’re EQing in context with the rest of your mix. ​Avoid
the solo button.
● If your EQ plugin has a band solo feature, you can use this to help you dial in the
right Q (or width) of your cut. To learn how to use this feature, check out ​this
video​ (start at 5:55).
● Oftentimes, gentle cuts can work wonders. Don’t be afraid to cut aggressively if
needed, but sometimes cutting only a few dB can make a massive difference.
● Be sure to test your cuts by flipping your EQ plugin in and out of bypass. Ask
yourself — does the cut make your mix sound better? If it does, you can be sure
you’ve made the right decision.
 My Top EQ Plugins
#1 Choice: FabFilter Pro-Q 2

For me, nothing beats the sound and flexibility of the

FabFilter Pro-Q 2. Its slick GUI is easy on the eyes, and
the built-in spectral analyzer is invaluable. I rarely use
anything else.

#2 Choice: Waves REQ

This plugin is old school, but I like the way the shelves
sound. While I can emulate its behavior using the Pro-Q,
it's still a great choice.

#3 Choice: UAD Pultec Pro

A no frills, easy-to-use EQ. It’s hard to make this one

sound bad.

For more mixing tips and tricks, visit B

​ ehindTheSpeakers.com​.