Overview – Pro-Q3
FabFilter Pro-Q3 is a digital EQ plug-in that is favored by music producers and engineers. Unlike previous analog EQs that were emulated in hardware, this versatile EQ utilizes digital technology fully.
A. Six excellent points of Pro-Q3
1) Filter Modes
Because you can apply three different filter modes in various situations, from track processing to mastering, you can choose from Zero Latency, Natural Phase, and Linear Phase, depending on your needs. So, I mainly use “Natural Phase” for each track and select “Linear Phase” for master track use.
2) Spectrum Analyzer for Precise EQ Control
The spectrum analyzer helps create EQ points by identifying frequencies. Frequency adjustments can be made by hovering the mouse over a spectrum curve. I use it to suppress peaks by dragging the EQ point downward. This tool is essential for my EQ workflow.
3) Spectrum Display for Interference Avoidance
FabFilter Pro-Q3 shows the spectrum of other tracks. Because of it, you can see the masked bandwidth (shown in red) quickly. This feature helps avoid interference between tracks and make a clearer mix. I use this feature often to check frequency masking, even if I use other EQs.
4) Stereo and M/S Processing in Pro-Q3
You can select either stereo processing or M/S for each band. So it is easier to adjust the stereo image to your liking. Whether you want to enhance or reduce the mid or side of your tracks, Pro-Q3 gives you the flexibility to do so.
5) Advanced Dynamic EQ Capabilities
The dynamic EQ mode not only allows static EQ processing but also natural EQ to match the volume. Moreover, the dynamic EQ can trigger by audio from other tracks to determine the dynamic EQ movement.
By using functions 4) and 5) together, I can apply Pro-Q3 to a piano track, EQ only the M component of the vocal’s central bandwidth (e.g. 800 Hz), and set the vocal as a trigger of dynamic EQ. The M component around 800 Hz of the piano reduces only when the volume of the vocals is loud, making the vocals more easily heard. This is just one example of the endless possibilities that FabFilter Pro-Q3 offers.
6) the Match EQ Function
The match EQ function lets you imitate a similar frequency response by taking another song as a reference. This feature is helpful when you need to replicate a specific sound when performing ear copying.
B. Four points for improvements of Pro-Q3
1) Difficulty in fully using for beginners
The EQ is versatile and powerful, but it can be difficult for beginners to master. It may take some time and practice to get the most out of this tool.
2) Limitations of Single Audio Sidechain Source in Dynamic EQs in Pro-Q3
FabFilter Pro-Q3 cannnot choose multipule audio source as sidechain. This limitation can be frustrating if you need to create more elaborate dynamic EQs with multiple sidechain sources.
3) MIDI synchronization to band frequencies is not accurate
I wish I could synchronize the MIDI note with the frequency of the band completely. Although there is a similar feature available, it is incomplete and does not fully meet my needs.
4) The rise of more high-function EQ
Other digital EQs with more advanced features are available, such as Three-Body Tech Kirchhoff EQ.
(However, Kirchhoff EQ clearly follows the GUI and operation of Pro-Q3 in some areas. This is because Pro-Q3 still has a superior interface.)
Conclusion
FabFilter Pro-Q3 is a great EQ plug-in. It has an easy-to-use interface, which makes it very helpful for music producers and engineers. Pro-Q3 has many features that can help you get the sound you want and improve your music production. We are excited to see what new features Pro-Q4 will have when it is released. You can purchase here.