Rather than reaching for an EQ when trying to problem solve in a mix, try a multi-band compressor instead. It gives you all the frequency-carving tools you're used in an EQ plus the ability to add punch and definition to the envelope of your track.

In this free tutorial, you'll learn multi-band basics and hear how it vastly improves a dead sounding kick while making it work better with your bass. 

What Is A Multi-Band Compressor?

Think of a multi-band compressor as you would an EQ – you can freely choose to boost or cut a chosen frequency range up to the limits of the unit. For example, a three-band MB Compressor gives you three distinct frequency areas to manipulate, while a six-band gives you six. Each band of compression has its own compressor with controls for Threshold, Attack, Release, and Gain. By manipulating the Threshold control you can choose to add compression to a band, or not. This gives you the ability to add punch and consistency to certain frequency ranges. When using it with a kick drum, you can add punch to the bottom and top, and leave the mid-band alone – or however you think it sounds best. 

Experimentation Is Key

Multi-band compression can be hard concept to grasp at first, but by taking your time in setting it up then hearing it soloed and in context with the rest of the track, you'll quickly gain speed in its operation and best usage. 

Watch this free tutorial to see all these tips in action.