Producer’s Guide

We demystify the process of mixing bass

Even with years of mixing experience and an ultra-precise monitoring set-up, the art of mixing low frequencies within a track is never easy. Every record is different: some productions partner a thunderous kick drum with a funky low-mid bass; others keep kicks light and allow the bassline to be the lowend shining star; while others pass primary sub duties between both the kick and bass somehow. No matter how a track’s bass end is built, there are countless pitfalls to avoid, in terms of sound selection, synthesis, arrangement and mixing – but get that bottom-end to translate across all playback mediums, and you’ve probably got a hit on your hands.

So in our guide, we’ll walk you through the most vital aspects of bottom-end mixing. From genre considerations, kick-and-bass compositional tricks and studio monitoring hacks through to sub enhancers, next-level sidechaining tactics and stylistic approaches, you’ll pick up all the info you need to hit those perfect low notes, every time.