Demystifying Mid-Side EQ

EQ is one of the most powerful tools in a mix engineer’s arsenal, but once you step into the world of Mid-Side EQ, things can feel a little murky. Is it voodoo? Is it magic? Or just another way to shape sound? In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody break down the history, mechanics, and real-world applications of Mid-Side EQ—making it approachable, useful, and maybe even fun.

First, they trace where the concept stems from—born in the analog world but finding new relevance in today’s digital production landscape. With modern DAWs, Mid-Side EQ has become easier to apply than ever before, but it also introduces unique opportunities—and pitfalls—for shaping your stereo image.

Chris and Jody explain the nuts and bolts of how Mid-Side EQ works in stereo:

• What the “mid” and “side” signals actually are.
• How separating them allows you to process the center of your mix differently from the edges.
• Why this technique can unlock new clarity, width, and control.

Then comes the fun part: why you might want to use Mid-Side EQ. From carving space for vocals in a busy mix to adding width to guitars or cleaning up muddy low end, the technique offers powerful results when used intentionally. But like all tools, it has its risks. Chris and Jody also caution against common mistakes, like over-processing the stereo field or creating phase issues that can collapse your mix.

And because gear talk is inevitable, the duo shares some of their favorite plugins for Mid-Side EQ, giving listeners practical recommendations they can put to work in their own sessions—whether they’re using high-end pro audio gear or experimenting with home studio gear setups.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Inside the Recording Studio without the usual banter, humor, and the occasional nonsense sprinkled in to keep things lively. Add in the weekly Friday Finds, and this episode offers both technical insight and entertainment value in equal measure.

By the end, you’ll not only understand what Mid-Side EQ is and how it works, but you’ll also know how to wield it confidently without wrecking your stereo image.

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Gear we used:
Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.

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If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com