When trying to decide if you should use outboard equalization in your recording, there are four things you need to keep in mind according to the always excellent Joe Gilder and he discuesses them in the following article. First, remember that the changes to your recording are permanent and can’t be undone. Next, you should initially make only small, subtle changes, rather than large ones. Third, you should adjust the sound source, such as repositioning a microphone, before changing the equalizer settings. Lastly, be able to explain why you’re using outboard equalization, and remember that “because it’s cool” is not a good enough reason.
Some great tips:
Using Outboard EQ With Confidence