Standard EQ is "static." If you cut 3dB at 2kHz, it stays cut for the entire song. But what if a vocal is only harsh when the singer hits a high note? Static EQ makes the quiet parts sound dull, while Dynamic EQ only activates when the harshness appears.

EQ vs. Dynamic EQ vs. Multiband Compression

Dynamic EQ is often confused with multiband compression. While both respond to volume, Dynamic EQ uses precision EQ filters (Bells, Shelves) rather than crossovers. This results in less phase distortion and a much cleaner sound on delicate instruments like acoustic guitars or overheads.

Key Use Cases

• Ducker: Use a sidechain to duck the 50Hz area of a bass guitar only when the kick drum hits.
• De-Esser: Set a narrow band at 7kHz to tame sibilance without losing the energy of the vocal.
• Resonance Tamer: Control "boxy" frequencies in a snare drum that only ring out on heavy hits.