How should I use EQ on my lead vocal?

Answer 1

EQ is an essential tool for shaping a professional lead vocal track.

Here are some general tips:

1. EQ is usually a first or second plugin in a vocal chain. Often preceded or followed by a de-esser or compressor.
2. Use a high pass filter to roll off the low end. You can confidently cut out anywhere from 90-120Hz on almost any vocal. This will ensure that there is no unwanted rumble when your signal is compressed further down the chain.
3. Reduce the "mud" around 250Hz. Perhaps duck this area by -2 or -4db.
4. Don't try to reduce sibilance with EQ. Use a de-esser instead.

Starting a vocal chain with these subtractive EQ tips will set you down the right path! Happy sound shaping!

Answer 2

Honestly, trust your ear and make EQ sweeps to find what works and what doesn't. To sweep, set a very narrow Q on a frequency band and boost this by a lot. You want to then sweep across the frequency spectrum taking note of which frequencies really jump out as being terrible. Keep in mind, most frequencies will sound terrible when boosting this much, but through practice, you'll begin to identify the more offending ones. Once you find these, go back and make cuts. Always toggle the EQ on and off and compare between the two.