How to EQ Piano in your mix:
EQ is a fundamental part of mixing. Through the use of parametric EQ, pass filters and shelving filters, you can manipulate the frequency response of the instruments in your session. Doing so allows you to alter the character of an instrument, increase separation, create effects, and more.
In this lesson, we’ll focus on the key frequencies that you need to know when equalizing a piano. Piano recordings can exhibit a number of different characteristics at different frequencies. By learning the kinds of characteristics that occur at various frequencies, you can use piano EQ to achieve your desired sound. If you want to increase a particular characteristic, then you boost its related frequencies. If you want to lessen a particular characteristic, then you cut the relevant frequencies.
The following piano frequency guide comes from the free Mixinglessons.com EQ Settings Cheat Sheet. The EQ Settings Cheat Sheet gives you a breakdown of the key frequencies that you need to know to EQ drums, bass guitar, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano, and vocals.
Click here to download your free copy of the EQ Settings Cheat Sheet.
Piano EQ:
30-50Hz: Pedal noise
80-120Hz: Bottom
200-400Hz: Muddiness
2.5-5kHz: Presence
5-7.5kHz: Shrillness
10kHz and up: Attack
Using EQ:
Cutting or boosting these key areas can help you to tailor the frequency response of the piano tracks in your mix. Of course, no two recordings are the same. The mics, the room, the player, and the piano itself all play a role in making your piano recording unique. So use these frequencies as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to experiment to achieve the sound that you’re looking for.
What are the key frequencies that you like to focus on when you EQ a piano? What character are you looking to get out of the track, and what EQ moves do you feel have the biggest impact on your mixes? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Don’t forget to download your free copy of the EQ Settings Cheat Sheet to kick-start your EQ for drums, bass guitar, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano, and vocals.
One thought on “Piano EQ: How to apply EQ to piano tracks in your mixes”
I think the article was very helpful. I have been trying to improve my mixing skills for some time now and this is a great read. The tips are easy to follow, yet provide you with the knowledge needed in order that your mixes will sound better than ever before.