What is the primary purpose of a high-pass filter in audio mixing?
ARemove frequencies below a set point
BAmplify all frequencies equally
CCreate a stereo effect
DReduce the overall volume
High-pass filters remove low frequencies, useful for removing rumble, hum, and proximity effects.
Question 2 Multiple Choice
What does Q factor refer to in parametric EQ?
AThe quality of the equipment
BThe bandwidth or narrowness of the frequency being affected
CThe amount of amplification applied
DThe speed of parameter change
Q factor determines how wide or narrow the band is. Higher Q = narrower (more surgical); lower Q = wider (smoother).
Question 3 True / False
True or false: An EQ cut is always preferable to an EQ boost.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: False
While cuts are often safer than boosts, EQ cuts can mask problems. The best approach uses both strategically — narrow cuts for problem resonances, broad boosts for tonal shaping.
Question 4 Short Answer
What is a frequency response curve in an EQ?
Think about your answer, then reveal below.
Model answer: A visual representation showing how the EQ affects the amplitude of different frequencies across the spectrum.
A well-designed EQ makes subtle, musical changes; an aggressive EQ with sharp peaks will sound unnatural. The frequency response curve lets engineers see and adjust these relationships.