Using subtractive equalization in competing elements is a great way to give the vocal the breathing room it needs. It is generally advisable to either leave or carve some space for the vocal in the arrangement or individual musical elements. To get a little more specific many modern equalizers such as FabFilter Pro-Q 3 and iZotope’s Neutron 4 include built-in analysers to help understand the specific problem frequency ranges between tracks. For beginners out there, EQ Instrument charts can help you understand where your vocal fits on a basic level. How a vocal will fit in the mix in the context of what else is going on really depends on the individual mix. If you’re at the mercy of poor recordings fairly often or just don’t want to take all that time squashing rogue frequencies, then modern processors such as Oeksound Soothe2 can really make life a lot easier!

Although it can be very time-consuming, each of these problems can be treated individually using a parametric equalizer. In all but the worst-sounding environments, you’ll find that each frequency has its own way of interacting with room acoustics.

The exact frequency of the boxiness in your vocal will depend on the dimensions of the room and the location of the recording. To deal with problems like boxiness that are caused by bad acoustics, cut out specific frequencies from your signal using an equalizer plugin such as FabFilter Pro-Q 2. This can be done by hanging blankets or foam panels on the walls or by using a portable vocal booth. The first step is to try and improve the acoustics of your recording environment.

If you’re recording vocals in an untreated or acoustically unfriendly room, you’re going to have a hard time getting them to sound good in the mix.

Vocal mixing tips fl studio