To be proficient at work, you should learn to use the basic audio processors first. These include a compressor, limiter, expander, and reverb. They appear to be very simple, but these basic audio processing tools are extremely powerful when used properly. Once you are thoroughly familiar and comfortable with the basics, expand your knowledge and skill base to the more advanced processors, including filters, and EQ. EQ is the most powerful of the audio processors. It can shape or change the sound of something, and it can move sounds between the foreground and background of a mix. However, don't forget the first rule of EQ: If you are not sure what to do, DON'T. Leave the audio alone. The second rule of EQ is always cut before you boost to make something come to life.

You will learn that in the vast majority of radio stations the engineering staff would prefer that you do not use a lot of equalization in your projects. The program director and the station engineer spend a lot of time and effort developing the station sound using the station's broadcast audio processor, and the audio processor may not react well with a heavily equalized commercial or promo that does not fit the audio profile of the station's other programming. As a result, equalization could degrade the commercial or promo sound instead of improving it.