A method and apparatus for transmitting data in code division multiple access communications. The method includes processing spread first data with a channel response matrix using an equalization circuit to pre-equalize the spread data to compensate for a channel response prior to transmission. The pre-equalized data is received and recovered by a receiver. Second data, transmitted from the receiver, is received and recovered using the equalization circuit to equalize the second data to compensate for a channel response that the first data encountered.