Re:TB Fix by Toneboosters - thoughts?
2013/04/19 19:06:46
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Think of a dynamic EQ as an automated equalizer, just as a compressor is an automated fader. Turning down a band on an EQ is similar to turning down a band on a multiband compressor.
The difference is that the EQ effects the center frequency the most, with gradually less effect on surrounding frequencies as they get further from that center. Multiband compressors work similarly, except that all frequencies within the band are reduced equally. Imagine an EQ with a flattened plateau-shaped band instead of a bell curve - that's the multiband compressor.
The dynamic EQ is therefore more transparent when you're targeting a specific frequency.
One application would be mitigating resonances, which are going to be centered on a specific frequency. Recording a vocal too close to a wall or window can result in annoying resonances that may be impossible to remove with a standard equalizer without hurting the overall tone. The dynamic EQ zeroes in on just that frequency and turns it down when it gets out of hand, while leaving it alone as long as it behaves.
Resonances can crop up anywhere, even within a microphone's headbasket. This can result in a particularly annoying type of essiness that conventional de-essers can't deal with because it's a narrow band of frequencies within the "S"s that are the problem.
I've never had the pleasure of recording a stand-up bass, but from what I've heard they're difficult due to resonances that cause one note to sound much louder than others. The same principle applies to acoustic guitars, and I'd guess potentially just about any acoustical instrument. Static EQ is a compromise, since the annoying resonance won't always be consistent. With a dynamic EQ, you could focus on just one note, and only lower it when it's obtrusive.
Drums are natural resonators, but sometimes their resonant frequency becomes too overbearing, which is why we almost always EQ snares and toms to determine how much of the resonant frequency we'll hear. You may have noticed, though, that sometimes a snare's resonance (or "ring") comes across much louder on certain hits, depending on where the drum is struck. (I've also noticed this with hand percussion such as tambourines and whatever you call those boxes you sit on and slap with your hands.) You can fix that with automation, but dynamic EQ would make it easier.
I currently have Meldaproductions' MDynamicEQ, which is similar in concept to TB Fix, but with more features. I don't use it very often, but when I do it's because there isn't any other tool in my kit that will do the job. Given TB Fix's low price, it seems like a good thing to have on hand, just in case.
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