Hi! I know how to use a RTA like Voxengo SPAN but I get confused when I load a spectrum analyzer. I see a lot of stuff and notes going on but I don't know how to interpretate them in a mixing or mastering context.

Thanks

 

Basically, you are looking at a graph of the amplitude of all the audio frequencies. It just shows you in a precise way where there may be certain low spots or peaks across the sound spectrum. How you interpret and use what you see is up to you. If you are trying to dial in a 30 band graphic or put a parametric peak or valley somewhere, it helps you be specific about the frequencies you are trying to adjust and the Q width you may want to apply. Got some nasty sibilance or splosives, but only in a couple spots? It will show you where that is, and how your repairs are working, if you know what you are looking for. It's just a way of seeing what your ears are already trying to tell you. lol

 

I don't know how much you do or don't know, but since Algae's answer was a bit more advanced, I'll cover the super basic stuff just to make sure you know it

X axis = time

y axis = frequency spectrum

Darker = lower amplitude at that given time and frequency

Lighter = higher amplitude


It's a lot like looking at the analyzer on an eq.