Starting out in Pro Tools? Start HERE

Here are some tips for beginners on creating and using auxiliary tracks in Pro Tools: - Auxiliary (aux) tracks allow you to create a mix of tracks that can be used to feed effects processors or for headphone mixes. - To create an aux track, go to Track > New and select 'Auxiliary Input'. This will create a new stereo aux track. - To route your existing tracks to the aux track, open the I/O section of the track you want to send to the aux. Under the 'Output' select the aux track you created. This will now send that track's signal to the aux track. - You can control the level sent to the aux track with the send knob. The higher the send level, the more signal will be sent from that track to the aux. - Add effects plugins like reverb or delay to the aux track to have them applied to everything sent to it. Adjust the wet/dry balance to taste. - To create a headphone mix, solo the aux track and adjust the sends from each track to get the blend you want in the headphones. Mute the main output so you only hear the aux. - When recording live instruments, create a separate aux track for each musician's headphone mix so they can control their own levels. - Aux tracks are extremely useful for both applying effects efficiently and creating custom headphone mixes. Start simple and you'll soon find more advanced ways to incorporate them into your projects.

Here are some tips for beginners learning to use EQ in Pro Tools: - Start with the parametric EQ III plugin. This allows you to make precise boosts or cuts to specific frequencies. - When EQing, less is often more. Make subtle boosts or cuts of only a few dB rather than drastic changes. - Use a high-pass filter to cut out low frequencies that just add mud. Start around 80-100 Hz and adjust as needed. - Use a low-pass filter to cut out high frequencies that add harshness. Start around 10-15 kHz and adjust as needed. - To make something sound brighter, boost the high-mids around 2-5 kHz just a bit. - To reduce hardness or harshness, cut slightly around 1-3 kHz. - Use a narrow boost around 100-200 Hz to add body or fullness to a thin track. - Cut around 300-500 Hz to reduce boominess or muddiness. - Always listen on multiple speakers and headphones. EQ can sound different on different systems. - Compare your EQ'd track to professional references for your genre. Try to match the overall tonal balance. - Make subtle boosts and cuts over multiple bands rather than one dramatic change. - Automate your EQ moves so they only happen where needed in the track. The key for beginners is to take it slow, listen carefully, and make small but deliberate EQ moves. With practice, you'll develop an ear for what frequencies to target.