Source

EQ Curves

Bands

Difficulty

Identify the correct EQ

Two EQ curves are shown — A and B. One of them is applied to the TARGET signal. A/B between TARGET and DRY using Space or D, then pick the EQ that matches what you hear.

Round History

Where to start

Hit New Round to begin. You'll see two EQ curves — a Target curve (what you're trying to match) and your own. Listen closely to the audio, then drag the band handles on your curve to match the Target's shape as closely as possible. Press Submit when you're done.

Start with easy difficulty and one band. As you improve, enable increase the number of bands and increase the difficulty. The difficulty determines the level of similarity between EQ A and EQ B.

Use Space or D to toggle between the Target and a dry, unfiltered signal in real time. Trust your ears, not just your eyes.

What to listen for

When comparing A to B, ask: where does the sound feel heavier, thinner, brighter, or duller? That difference points you to the frequency region you need to adjust. Move your band handle toward that region, then fine-tune the gain until the two curves feel identical.

For shelf filters, listen for a broad tilt in the overall tone — the whole top or bottom of the spectrum shifting up or down. For peaking filters, listen for a more focused, narrow emphasis on a specific part of the sound.

Frequency reference

Sub-Bass 20 – 60 Hz The deepest rumble — felt in the body more than heard. Controls the "oomph" of kick drums and sub-bass. Too much causes a mix to sound muddy or undefined.

Bass 60 – 250 Hz Provides the fundamental rhythm and power of a song. Houses the primary body of bass guitars and drum shells. Build-up here often makes a track sound bloated.

Low-Midrange 250 – 500 Hz Adds warmth and foundation to instruments and vocals. Boosts add "thickness" to a sound; cuts are often used to reduce boxiness.

Midrange 500 Hz – 2 kHz The most sensitive range for human hearing. Contains the fundamental notes of most melodic instruments and vocals. Too much here sounds "honky" or causes masking.

Upper-Midrange 2 – 4 kHz Defines the attack and punch of instruments. Adjusting here helps vocals, guitars, and snares cut through a busy mix.

Presence 4 – 6 kHz Dictates the clarity and definition of a sound. Boosting here makes elements feel closer and more upfront to the listener.

Brilliance / Air 6 – 20 kHz Provides "sparkle," "sheen," and "air." Controls the crispness of cymbals, acoustic guitar strings, and vocal breath. Over-boosting quickly leads to harshness or listener fatigue.