Introduction
Let's talk about a crucial aspect of mixing metal bass: understanding the EQ frequencies to bring out the best in your tracks. While each bass is going to be different from the other, there are some general guidelines you can follow that will, at the very least, get you headed in the right direction. In this blog post, we're going to go over the 4 frequencies we think are most important when learning how to mix metal bass.
For a more visual explanation, make sure to check out our detailed YouTube tutorial by clicking here!
Understanding EQ and Dynamic EQ
Equalization (EQ) is going to be your main source for mixing the bass. It allows you to boost or cut specific ranges to achieve clarity, punch, and balance.
Dynamic EQ takes this a step further by combining the frequency-specific adjustments of EQ with dynamics processing, which means the EQ's effect is triggered by the signal level of the frequency it's adjusting. This is particularly useful for handling complex instruments like the bass guitar in metal music.
In short, it applies the EQ only when it's necessary, rather than being something that is always in place.
So, with that being said, let's dive into the EQ moves you need to know!
1. Low End Management: 120 to 200 Hz
In metal, the bass often needs to coexist with other low-end heavy elements, especially the kick drum and sometimes the lower range of the snare drum. The frequency range of 120 to 200 Hz is critical because it’s where much of the body of the bass lies. If this range is too boosted, the bass can overshadow the kick drum, leading to a muddy mix.
Challenges: Bass clashing with the kick and snare drums.
Technique: Use Dynamic EQ to subtly cut this range when it overlaps with the kick.
Benefit: Maintains the fullness of the bass while ensuring it doesn't compete with the kick.
2. Mid-Range Clarity: 200 to 800 Hz
The mid-range is where the character of the bass lies, but it's also a region that many metal producers mistakenly scoop out, attempting to leave room for guitars. This can lead to a bass sound that lacks presence and definition.
Common Mistake: Scooping out too much mid-range.
Strategy: Use Dynamic EQ to reduce this range only when necessary.
Example: Allows the bass to fill out the mix without stepping on the guitars.
3. High Mids Focus: 1K to 3K Hz
The high mid-range, particularly between 1K and 3K Hz, is crucial for capturing the attack of the bass pick and ensuring that the bass cuts through the mix. It's also where a lot of the clank can be found in some basses. But also, this frequency range can get harsh, especially when the bassist uses a pick.
Importance: Captures the pick attack.
Approach: Soften the harshness using Dynamic EQ.
Goal: Enhance the attack without letting it become overpowering.
4. Managing High Frequencies: 4K Hz and Up
Finally, the upper range of the bass frequency spectrum can sometimes introduce unwanted noise or harshness, especially in recordings with a lot of finger noise or when using distortion. Frequencies around 2.5K to 5K Hz can be particularly problematic.
Challenge: Unwanted noise or harshness in the upper range.
Solution: Use Dynamic EQ to remove these harsh, clanky frequencies.
Result: A polished and well-integrated bass sound.
Bonus Tip: Using Saturation for Character Enhancement
Beyond EQ, saturation is a fantastic tool for adding richness and warmth to your bass tone. By using a multiband saturator like FabFilter's Saturn, you can focus on enhancing the mid-range, adding depth that EQ alone cannot achieve. Adjust the saturation to taste, ensuring not to overwhelm the mix.
🎥 See These Tips in Action!
If you'd like to see how all of these tips can be used in a modern metal track, watch our video where Mix Engineer & MMS Co-Founder Johnny Fitzgerald dials in a bass track using these exact guidelines!
Check out the video now!👇
Conclusion
Mastering these EQ frequencies and utilizing tools like Dynamic EQ and saturation can dramatically improve the impact and clarity of your bass in metal mixes.
Remember, the key is subtlety and balance—small adjustments can make a big difference.
