Critical Frequency Range + Sweeping Technique (EQ Questions)

[bigdaveo11]

Hey guys I had two questions regarding EQ that I have come across lately.

1. The mention of "critical frequencies." What is this referring to exactly? The frequencies around the fundamental of the sound? I hear people mention that they like to boost around the critical frequencies or prevent overlapping in these ranges. I was wondering if anyone else uses this technique/term and how so?

2. The sweeping with a high gain across the frequency of a sound. What are producers searching for/trying to identify and accomplish with this technique? How do you (if at all) use this method in your productions?

Thanks for your time and responses.

[Sendy]

I often turn up the gain and sweep around to look for problem areas in a track. I like to use it to find the most unpleasant part of a sound, so that I can cut it back a bit. It's also handy for finding ringing on beats. In general, if it sounds horrible boosted 10db or so, it doesn't deserve to stay

I think "critical frequencies" just means those that are most defining of the sound. That could be qutie subjective and dependant on the context, i.e. what function the sound is playing.

[bigdaveo11]

makes sense, thank you Sendy

[blindasfcuk]

Ya I started using this technique as well even though i wasnt sure what i was looking for I just started cutting sounds at frequencies where I would hear a horrible ringing when it was boosted really high. You'll know the sound when you hear it. Its good to know that i was actually doin it right anyway

[MrMagneto]

I think it's ok for bass and lower mid frequencies but i'd rather not do that in the upper ranges. Removing all ringing and contour from the sounds can make the mix sound very boring, lifeless although it might sound very clear and clean. It might lose the magic ...especially when you deal with acoustic or acoustic-related instruments.

[bigdaveo11]

OK. thanks for the responses. Must trust my ears!