EQ, or equalization, is a process of boosting or cutting specific frequencies in a signal. It can be used to improve the sound of a guitar signal by removing unwanted frequencies and boosting the frequencies that are desired.
EQ can be used before or after an amp sim. There are pros and cons to both approaches.
EQing Before an Amp Sim
EQing before an amp sim can be a good way to remove unwanted frequencies from your guitar signal. This can help to improve the sound of the amp sim and make it easier to get the desired sound.
For example, if your guitar signal has a lot of low-end frequencies, you may want to use an EQ to cut those frequencies before the amp sim. This will help to prevent the amp sim from being overwhelmed by the low-end frequencies.
You can also use EQ to boost specific frequencies before the amp sim. This can help to create a more balanced sound or to emphasize certain aspects of the guitar sound.
For example, if you want to add more brightness to your guitar sound, you may want to boost the high-frequency range before the amp sim.
EQing After an Amp Sim
EQing after an amp sim can be a good way to fine-tune the sound of the amp sim. This can be helpful if you are not happy with the sound of the amp sim out of the box.
For example, if the amp sim sounds too muddy, you may want to use an EQ to cut the low-frequency range after the amp sim. This will help to brighten up the sound.
You can also use EQ to boost specific frequencies after the amp sim. This can help to create a more balanced sound or to emphasize certain aspects of the amp sim’s sound.
For example, if you want to add more sustain to your guitar sound, you may want to boost the mid-frequency range after the amp sim.
Which Approach is Best?
The best approach to EQing before or after an amp sim depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are not sure which approach to use, it is a good idea to experiment with both and see which one you prefer.
Here are some additional tips for EQing before or after an amp sim:
- Use a high-quality EQ plugin. A good EQ plugin will give you more control over the frequencies that you are boosting or cutting.
- Start with a small boost or cut. It is easy to overdo it with EQ, so it is a good idea to start with a small boost or cut and then adjust it as needed.
- Listen carefully to the results. As you are EQing, listen carefully to the results and make sure that you are getting the desired sound.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. The best way to find the right EQ settings is to experiment with different settings and see what sounds good to you.
