FFT filter

[marcel]

Hello,
Do you use an FFT filter regularly? Does it accomplish similar results as other eq'ing filters? I mean, I see it might work the same way the a paragraphic eq but I read there is some delay attached to the process?
I'm looking at different ways to do fine adjustments to some frequencies to achieve a "whole" album sound during the "mastering" stage.
Any opinions?

Thank you!

[Bigduggieface]

Modern FFT filters basically split the audio signal into predetermined numbers (potentially unlimited numbers) of frequency bands. You can then manipulate each band separately, depending on the software and the intended end result.

Marcel's forum question alludes to FFT filter as a quasi-eq effect, and this is indeed a common usage. Especially for sharply filtering out unwanted low end rumble for instance.

The delay you speak of has to do with latency, as FFT filters are digital processors. Your computer will need to work harder to compensate for the delay, so it is likely that you will need to increase your buffer size accordingly.

There is no reason why you can't utilize an FFT filter as a mastering tool. However, to me it seems like a microscopic tool of precision that borders on overkill, and the precision offered is normally not needed.

Call me old-school, but if you can't get the sound you want from a 5-band parametric with high/low filters, you might want to consider a remix.