EQ Targets
- Filter only what the arrangement does not need.
- Cut boxiness, harshness, or mud when you actually hear it.
- Boost for a musical reason, not to make the track louder.
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Overheads Mixing Guide
IN LOGIC PRO
Recommended Modular Chain
Clip Gain / Input Gain
Set a workable level before plugins, avoid clipping, and do not use gain staging just to make the track loud.
Cleanup / Corrective EQ
Remove rumble, harsh resonances, boxiness, or mud only if needed; use narrow cuts for real problems.
Dynamics
Compress only when the source needs leveling, punch, control, or tone; leave it alone when it already sits correctly.
Tone EQ
Add weight, presence, or air after the source is controlled and the part works in context.
Saturation / Character
Optional color for density, harmonic interest, or perceived loudness when the arrangement benefits from it.
Space / Sends
Prefer sends for shared reverbs and delays; use insert reverbs only when the effect is part of the sound.
Peak Control
Use clip gain, light clipping, or limiting only when peaks are causing problems; do not limit every track by default.
EQ, Compression, and Metering
Compression Starting Points
- Compression is optional; use gentle control only if cymbals or kit image need cohesion.
- Avoid pumping cymbals.
- EQ, phase alignment, and level often matter more than compression.
Metering Targets
- Leave headroom before buses
- Watch low-end buildup
- Prioritize Kit balance clarity in context
EQ Moves
| Range | Move | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 80-120 Hz | Low cut | Remove unnecessary low-end build |
| 200-500 Hz | Low-mid control | Reduce boxiness and cloud |
| 2-5 kHz | Presence | Add cymbal and stick definition |
| 8-12 kHz | Air | Open the top end subtly |
| 12-16 kHz | Shelf | Optional brilliance |
Plugin Recommendations
EQ
Logic Channel EQ
FabFilter Pro-Q 4
Compression
Gentle glue compression
Phase Tools
Correlation/phase check utilities
Effects
- Logic Space Designer
- ChromaVerb
- or subtle saturation only
Quick Reminders
- Think of overheads as the full-kit picture.
- Use small EQ moves and trust balance first.
- Fix phase before heavy processing.
- Keep cymbals natural, not hyped.