Pairing a broad boost with a narrow cut

Sometimes there are two things that are true at the same time about a kick drum sound: it needs more low end, and also the low end is a bit congested.

What I like to do in that situation is to pair a narrow cut with a broad boost — in the same general area.

If I want to shift the perceived energy of the kick a bit lower, I might put the bell below the cut, something like this:

• Cut: 100 Hz, Q=2.5, -5 dB

• Boost: 80 Hz, Q=1.0, +2 dB

If I want to shift the perceived energy of the kick a bit higher, I might put the bell above the cut, something like this:

• Cut: 90 Hz, Q=3.0, -6 dB

• Boost: 110 Hz, Q=1.5, +3 dB

And if the place I want the solidity and the place that’s boomy are the same place, I might do something like this:

• Cut: 87 Hz, Q=4.0, -8 dB <= neutralize the hot spot for a balanced low end

• Boost: 87 Hz, Q=1.2, +3 dB <= bring up the solidity in the area, now that it’s balanced

You’ll note that I put different Qs and gains in my examples — this is just to illustrate the idea that you need to use your ears and see what sounds best. There’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all solution for EQing!

Clean and hard-hitting — jamie