Subtractive EQing is one of the most important – and most misunderstood – parts of mixing.
 
In this 20-minute on-demand mentoring video, I break it down properly, from the ground up.
 
This session is a Subtractive EQing 101, focused entirely on removing problem frequencies, not enhancing or “sweetening” sounds. The goal is simple: control your frequencies so your mix works better later down the line.
 
I work through five different sounds to show how subtractive EQ applies to everything:
 
Kick (audio sample)
Snare (audio sample)
Shaker (audio sample)
808 bass (synth)
Synth stab
 
By using both audio samples and synth-generated sounds, I reinforce one core principle: 👉 Every sound is just frequencies, and should be treated as such.
 
Throughout the video, I use FabFilter Pro-Q 4 as a parametric EQ so you can clearly see what’s happening in real time. The visual feedback is deliberate, surgical subtractive EQing is far easier when you fully understand what you’re hearing and seeing. That said, you can follow along with any parametric EQ.
 
This is a straight-to-the-point, intentionally repetitive session designed to really hammer home:
 
What subtractive EQing actually is
Why being more aggressive than you think is often necessary
How controlling frequencies early leads to cleaner, more professional mixes
 
A lot of artists tell me, “I don’t EQ this much.” My answer is always the same: you probably should.
 
If you’re not actively identifying and removing unnecessary or problematic frequencies, they’ll stack up, and you’ll feel it later in the mix.
 
This video is ideal if:
 
You’re unsure when or how much to EQ
You want cleaner mixes with less effort later
You want to stop guessing and start EQing with intent
 
No hype. No presets. Just proper subtractive EQing, explained clearly and applied in real-world scenarios.