Setting up and eq'ing a microphone

1. Start with a flat EQ. Before making any adjustments, set all the EQ controls to their neutral or "flat" positions. This will give you a baseline sound to work from. Turn on the "high pass" filter. This will cut the low end and reduce a lot of mic handling noise.
   
   
2. Listen to the microphone's natural sound. Speak or sing into the microphone and listen to the sound coming through the speakers. Pay attention to any areas that sound particularly boomy, muddy, harsh, or thin.
   
   
3. Identify problem frequencies. Use a parametric EQ to identify the specific frequencies that are causing problems. Sweep the EQ control across the frequency spectrum until you hear the problem frequency, then adjust the EQ to cut or boost that frequency.
   
   
4. Use a gentle touch. When making EQ adjustments, use a gentle touch and make small adjustments at a time. Avoid making drastic changes, as this can cause the sound to become unnatural or distorted.
   
   
5. Cut before boosting. When adjusting the EQ, it's generally better to cut frequencies that are causing problems rather than boosting frequencies that are lacking. Boosting frequencies can add unwanted noise or distortion, while cutting frequencies can help clean up the sound.
   
   
6. Keep it simple. Don't over-EQ the microphone. Aim for a natural, balanced sound that doesn't have too many frequency peaks or dips.
   
   
7. Make sure the people using the microphone are using it correctly. Have them keep the microphone close to their mouth and not cupping the mic with their hand. Microphones work best when the speaker is speaking loudly. This will give you the ability to increase the person's voice without increasing background noise. Having them hold the microphone like an ice cream cone near their chin is a good placement.

Remember that EQing a microphone is a subjective process and will depend on the specific sound you're trying to achieve. It's important to listen carefully and make adjustments that sound good to your ears. Here are some additional tips to operating a microphone:

• Use your ears. The best way to EQ a mic is to use your ears. Listen to the sound and identify any frequencies that sound harsh or unpleasant.
  
  
• Be patient. It takes time to learn how to EQ a mic properly. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it perfect right away.
  
  
• Experiment. The best way to learn how to EQ a mic is to experiment. Try different settings and see what sounds best to you.
  
  
• Ask for help. If you are struggling to EQ a mic, ask for help from a more experienced engineer or give us a call. Often times we can help over the phone.