technical EQs are built with (multiple) filters. EQs are much more flexible for soundshaping and sound design. filters are the better choice if you want to automate frequency cuts (close a low pass filter, ...). with EQs it's usually not so easy to do. (limited frequency band, not a smooth automation, ...)

all in all you're right EQs could do everything a filter does. but there are some technical limits in the plugin implementation usually..

If the compressor threshold is set above the kick's peak level and thus the compressor's not being triggered at all, then the only way it's getting louder is if the output level of the compressor is set higher than the input level.

quote:

Originally posted by derail If the compressor threshold is set above the kick's peak level and thus the compressor's not being triggered at all, then the only way it's getting louder is if the output level of the compressor is set higher than the input level.

Well my compressor does not show an input level so how can I tell? The Output is set at 0db which is normal I guess. I have to lower the threshold to -20db before I see the Gain reduction meter start to pump. I forgot to mention that when I lower the threshold its slowly getting louder but the gain reduction shows nothing untill around -18 db

Hmm. I guess it really depends on the compressor you're using. Some of them may behave differently. For software compression I generally use the Waves compressors (RenComp and the C1), which show the input signal coming in and don't change the signal until the threshold is set below the input signal.

But in any case, work out what you want to do to your kicks, learn how the compressor you're using handles audio, and then use the settings which will give you the sound you're after. If the readout isn't helpful, use your ears!

quote:

Originally posted by Dj Nacht Well my compressor does not show an input level so how can I tell? The Output is set at 0db which is normal I guess. I have to lower the threshold to -20db before I see the Gain reduction meter start to pump. I forgot to mention that when I lower the threshold its slowly getting louder but the gain reduction shows nothing untill around -18 db

What compressor are you using? You have probably have the 'auto gain' option turned on which some of them have...

quote:

Originally posted by Sanguis Mortuum What compressor are you using? You have probably have the 'auto gain' option turned on which some of them have...

Ableton Compressor 2