Hello, You basically answered your question near the end of your inquiry, "...but I understand this can alter the equalization, similar to a compressor." Low frequencies carry much more energy than higher frequencies, and since compressors/limiters react to energy your dynamic range will be affected more by low frequency adjustments more than high frequency adjustments post-compressor...regardless of the equalizer being used. That said, if you notice a change in frequency response after the comression stage, instead of just applying a limiter, first return to the compression stage and make the adjustments needed to ensure you are at your preferred dynamic range after any post-compression equalization...or go back to the pre-compression equalizer and make adjustments so that your spectrum curve is where it should be after compression has been applied. Regardless, it's a fine-tuning of balance between compression and EQ. Of course, limiters can still be used post-EQ to enhance a sounds transient shape/slope for effect in order to get a specific sound...but find the best balance between pre-eq & compression first.
