You have a choice when it comes to engaging a filter. Removing unnecessary low-frequency information from your recording is a time-tested way of preserving headroom, and it’s often the first line of defense in cleaning up your mix. But should you do it here?
Or here? Or how about here? If you’ve been with us for a while, I’m remiss to give you a one-size-fits-all rule.
Instead, I’d prefer to give you a general way to think about the question. At every point in the signal chain, you’re juggling dynamic range and headroom. If you think there’s junk in the low end and you don’t want it, get rid of it early, particularly if it’s a loud source.
And while in post, your EQ may offer a lot of precision and even better quality, your converters and any additional processing has to chew on all that junk that comes from upstream. And that goes for the internal circuitry of your mic as well. You may never notice a difference, so file this under best practice.
And remember that not all low-frequency stuff is bad. If you think there might be a hot tub at the ski resort, go ahead and pack your bathing suit. But if there isn’t, you might as as well leave it at home.
Your bag will just be lighter and you’ll have a better time.
