To mix 808s that bang, start by tuning them, adding distortion or saturation, and utilizing sidechain compression. Mixing 808s can be a challenge, but it’s an essential part of producing hip hop, trap, and electronic music.
The 808 is a fundamental bass sound that provides the backbone for many genres of music. A well-mixed 808 can make or break a track, so it’s important to get it right. We’ll discuss some tips and techniques for mixing 808s that bang.
We’ll cover everything from tuning your 808s to using distortion and saturation to make them stand out in the mix. Finally, we’ll explore the use of sidechain compression to ensure that your 808s don’t clash with other elements of your track.
Finding The Right Sample
Finding the right sample is crucial when mixing 808s for impactful beats. Start with a high quality recording and experiment with different processing techniques to achieve the desired sound.
Understanding The Different Types Of 808 Sounds
Before you can find the right 808 sample, you need to understand the different types of bass sounds that fall under the 808 category. The most common types of 808 sounds are:
- Sine wave: This is the purest and most basic type of 808 sound, with a rich and smooth tone.
- Square wave: This type of 808 sound has a harsher and more aggressive tone, making it ideal for harder styles of music.
- Triangle wave: This type of 808 sound has a softer and more muted tone, making it ideal for R&B and hip-hop ballads.
Choosing The Right 808 Sample
Now that you understand the different types of 808 sounds, it’s time to choose the right sample for your mix. Here are some tips:
- Match the key: Ensure your 808 sample is in the same key as your melody to prevent any clashing and dissonance.
- Consider the genre: Different genres require different types of 808 sounds, so make sure your sample matches the genre you’re producing for.
- EQ and Compression: Always consider the EQ balance and compression of your 808 sample to fit well in the mix.
- Have a focus: The focus should be the kick and 808, thus, it is crucial to decide which one of them should sit on top of the other.
Conclusion
Finding the right 808 sample is essential to ensuring that your track’s bass hits hard and drives the mix. By understanding the different types of 808 sounds, choosing the right sample, and mapping out your mix, you can achieve a powerful and dynamic bassline that will get your listeners grooving.
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Eqing The 808
The 808 is a staple in trap and hip-hop music. Its low-end frequency is what makes the track stand out. However, if not correctly EQ’d, it can lead to a muddy mix, resulting in an unpleasant listening experience. The first step is to identify problem frequencies.
Some problem frequencies in the 808 include:
- Boxiness around 150-300Hz: This leads to a sound that can be overpowering and causes a muddy mix.
- Mud around 200-400Hz: This leads to the 808 clashing with the other instruments in the mix.
- Metallic sound around 4-6kHz: This leads to harshness in the top end, causing ear fatigue.
- Weakness around 30-60Hz: This leads to an inadequate low-end, causing the 808 to sound weak and thin.
Once you have identified the problem frequencies in the 808, the next step is to EQ it correctly. Here are some EQ adjustments that you can make:
Cutting The Boxiness
To cut the boxiness, reduce the frequency around 200Hz. You can do this by using a bell filter with a Q factor of 1.5 to 2.
Reducing Mud
To reduce mud, cut around 400Hz. You can do this by using a bell filter with a Q factor of 1.5 to 2.
Removing Metallic Sound
To remove metallic sound, cut around 4-6kHz. Use a bell filter with a Q factor of 1.5 to 2.
Adding More Sub-bass
To add more sub-bass, boost around 30-60Hz. Use a bell filter or a low-shelf filter with a Q factor of 0.5 to 1.
Boosting Presence
To boost presence, increase the frequency around 1kHz. Use a bell filter with a Q factor of 2 to 3.
Remember, the key is not to overdo it. Use subtle EQ adjustments and trust your ears to achieve an 808 that hits hard and enhances the mix.
Saturation And Distortion
Achieving the perfect mix for 808s involves balancing saturation and distortion. Carefully EQing and compressing the low-end frequencies while adding just the right amount of saturation and distortion can help create 808s that really bang.
Saturation and distortion are two essential techniques for achieving fantastic 808 mixes that will make any listener move to the beat. The key to working with these effects, however, is to use them discreetly to avoid overloading or drowning out the mix.
Using Saturation To Add Warmth
Saturation is an excellent tool for enhancing the warmth and character of your 808s. Saturation plugins like FabFilter Saturn, Soundtoys Decapitator, and Waves NLS can be used to thicken up a mix by adding harmonic distortion to audio signals. Here’s how to apply saturation to your 808s:
- Insert a saturation plugin on your 808 channel.
- Tweak the plugin’s settings to add warmth to the mix without distorting it excessively. Keep the drive level low to avoid overloading the sound and use the wet/dry function to control the amount of saturation applied to the mix.
- High-pass-filtering the low-end on the saturation plugin can help control any new problems with low-end distortion that might appear.
- Positive Grid’s BIAS FX 2 has added a ton of options like different types of Vibrato, compressor/sustain, fuzz, and others.
Applying Distortion For Extra Grit
Distortion is an excellent technique for giving your 808s more grit without overpowering the mix. Soft clipping and saturation are some tools you can use to achieve a more natural distortion effect. Here are some steps to apply distortion onto your 808s:
- Insert a distortion plugin onto your 808 channel.
- Adjust the settings to add warmth without muddying up the mix in the process. To achieve more aggressive distortion, crank up the mix’s drive level.
- If the distortion is too strong, adjust the wet/dry function until you find the right balance. You want enough grit to make the 808s stand out, but not so much that they overpower the mix completely.
- Using a multi-band distortion plugin like FabFilter Saturn can allow you to add distortion to specific frequency ranges of your 808 without affecting other unrelated frequencies.
To Sum Up, adding saturation and distortion to your 808s can give them plenty of character and warmth and help them stand out in the mix. Always use these techniques with caution to avoid overloading the sound. Both soft clipping and saturation are often reliable go-to additives, but good plugins for Multi-band distortion like Saturn can allow you to achieve more attention-grabbing effects while keeping the mix intact.
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Layering 808s
Layering 808s can create a rich and full-bodied sound that can help to take your tracks to the next level. In order to achieve the perfect layered 808 sound, you need to blend different types of 808s together and adjust their pitch and volume to create a cohesive mix. In this post, we’re going to explore the best ways to layer 808s to achieve a fuller sound.
How To Layer 808s For A Fuller Sound
The first step in layering 808s is to choose two or more complementary samples that have different characteristics. For example, you might choose a short, punchy 808 sample to provide the attack and a longer, sustained 808 sample to provide the body of the sound.
Once you have chosen your samples, it’s important to adjust the pitch and volume levels so that they blend together seamlessly. You can achieve this by using EQ and compression to shape the sound and create space for each sample to shine. Make sure to experiment with different pitch and volume levels until you find the right balance for your mix.
Blending Different Types Of 808s
When layering 808s, it’s important to choose samples that complement each other in terms of pitch, tone, and character. For example, you might layer a distorted 808 with a clean 808 to create a gritty, textured sound. Or, you might layer a sine wave 808 with a square wave 808 to create a complex, harmonically rich sound.
When blending different types of 808s, it’s important to keep your mix balanced and avoid cluttering your track with too many layers. A good rule of thumb is to stick to two or three layers and adjust their levels and frequencies until they blend together seamlessly.
Summary
- Layering 808s can create a rich and full-bodied sound
- Choose complementary samples with different characteristics
- Adjust pitch and volume levels to create a cohesive mix
- Use EQ and compression to shape the sound
- Experiment with different types of 808s to create unique sounds
- Avoid cluttering your mix with too many layers
| Dos and Don’ts | |
| Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| – Choose complementary 808 samples with different characteristics – Adjust pitch and volume levels to create a cohesive mix – Use EQ and compression to shape the sound – Experiment with different types of 808s to create unique sounds – Keep your mix balanced | – Clutter your mix with too many layers – Use 808 samples that clash with each other – Neglect to adjust pitch and volume levels for each layer – Skip using EQ or compression to shape the sound |
Adding Harmonic Content
Now that you have gotten an idea of how to process and EQ your 808s, it’s time to move on to adding another important element: Harmonics. Harmonics are a powerful tool that add brightness and depth to your 808s, making them sound fuller and more interesting.
Using Harmonics To Add Brightness
One way to add harmonics is by using saturation plugins. Saturation plugins like Decapitator from Soundtoys or the Waves J37 tape emulator can help add grit and warmth to your 808s. By driving the input on these plugins, you can add harmonics that will make your 808s stand out in the mix.
You can also use harmonic exciter plugins like the Waves Aphex Vintage Exciter or Ozone’s Exciter module to add more top-end to your 808s. These exciter plugins work by adding extra harmonics to your sound, which can help bring out more clarity and brightness in your mix.
Creating Harmonics With Distortion Plugins
Another way to add harmonics to your 808s is through the use of distortion plugins like the Soundtoys Radiator or the Waves OneKnob Driver. By adding a bit of distortion to your 808s, you can add extra harmonics that will help your 808s cut through the mix.
Different distortion plugins can add new color and character to your 808s. Some can add midrange harmonic content, while others can create top-end harmonics.
| Distortion Plugin | Harmonic Type | Unique Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Soundtoys Decapitator | Multiband | Ability to add different harmonic content to different frequency bands |
| Waves OneKnob Driver | Even Harmonics | Simple to use, adds a subtle warmth to your 808s |
| Izotope Trash 2 | Complex Harmonics | Can create a wide range of distortion sounds, from subtle to extreme |
Adding harmonics can help make your 808s sound bigger and more interesting. Try experimenting with different plugins and techniques to find the right harmonic content for your mix. Remember, adding too much harmonic content can quickly muddy up your mix, so use your ears and make sure your 808s still have clarity and punch!
Enhancing The Low End
To mix 808s that bang, one effective way is to enhance the low end. This can be achieved by EQing, sidechaining, and choosing the right sounds to complement the 808. With the right techniques, the low end can give your mix the impact it needs.
Using Subharmonic Generators To Deepen The 808
When it comes to creating a mix that thumps, your 808 must be mixed perfectly. One way to beef up your 808 is by adding subharmonic generators. These generators not only deepen the low end but also enhance the overall impact of your mix. With subharmonic generators, you can add an extra layer of power to your 808, creating a more significant impact that resonates through the speakers.
Boosting Low End With A Maximizer Or Limiter
Another way to enhance the low end of your mix is by using a Maximizer or Limiter. These plugins work by increasing the overall level of your track, creating a more powerful impact for the low end. With a Maximizer or Limiter, you can ensure that your 808 stays consistent and powerful throughout the entire mix. By boosting the low end, you are creating more depth and power, adding an extra layer of complexity to your mix. To wrap it up, using subharmonic generators and maximizers or limiters are excellent ways to enhance the low end of your mix. These tools help to create a fuller, more rounded sound that will resonate through the speakers with fantastic power. So try experimenting with these techniques, and you’ll be amazed at the incredible results you can achieve.
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Frequently Asked Questions Of How To Mix 808s That Bang
How To Make 808s Bang?
To make 808s bang, you need to focus on the mix. EQ the kick, use a compressor and saturation to achieve a fuller, thicker sound. Experiment with pitch and processing effects like distortion and delay. Keep in mind the overall vibe and tonality of the track.
How Do You Get Punchy 808?
To get a punchy 808, start by selecting good samples and layering them for a fuller sound. Use distortion and saturation to add warmth and harmonics. Tune your 808 to your key and add envelopes to shape its attack and decay.
Finally, use sidechain compression to create space in the mix.
How Do You Mix 808s With Kick?
To mix 808s with kick, start by cutting the 808 frequencies that clash with the kick. Next, layer the two sounds and EQ them, emphasizing the low end of the kick and the thump of the 808. Use sidechain compression to create space for the kick while keeping the 808’s presence.
Finally, adjust the levels to make sure both sounds are balanced.
How Loud Should An 808 Be In A Mix?
An 808 should be loud enough to be heard but not overpowering other instruments in the mix. It should sit well with the bass, kick, and other low-frequency elements. The ideal volume may vary based on the genre and the intended effect.
Use your ears and adjust accordingly.
Conclusion
After learning how to mix 808s that bang, your production skills will surely level up. Remember to always trust your ears, experiment with different techniques, and don’t be afraid to take risks when creating music. With practice and patience, you’ll eventually develop your own unique style and sound that will make your music stand out.
By following the tips we’ve shared, you’ll surely be on your way to creating 808s that will make your listeners feel the bass in their bones. Happy mixing!