The ideal loudness for EDM sub-bass will vary depending on the genre of EDM, the overall sound you are trying to achieve, and your personal preferences. However, there are a few general tips that can help you set the correct loudness for your sub-bass.
First, it is important to understand that sub-bass is often felt more than heard. This means that you don’t need to set your sub-bass as loud as your other instruments in order for it to be effective.
A good general rule of thumb is to set your sub-bass so that it is peaking at around -12dB to -15dB on your master meter. This will ensure that your sub-bass is loud enough to be felt, but not so loud that it overpowers the rest of the mix.
You can also use a reference track to help you set the loudness of your sub-bass. Choose a reference track that is in the same genre of EDM as your track and that has a sub-bass sound that you like. Then, use an equalizer to match the loudness of your sub-bass to the loudness of the sub-bass in the reference track.
It is also important to keep in mind that the loudness of your sub-bass will vary depending on the playback system. For example, sub-bass will typically sound louder on a home stereo than on a pair of headphones.
If you are unsure how loud to set your sub-bass, it is always best to start on the low side and then increase the loudness until you are happy with the sound.
Here are some additional tips for working with sub-bass in EDM music:
- Use a high-pass filter to remove any low-end frequencies from your other instruments. This will give your sub-bass more room to breathe and make it sound more powerful.
- Use a compressor to control the dynamics of your sub-bass. This will help to keep it from overpowering the rest of the mix.
- Use an equalizer to adjust the frequency and level of your sub-bass. This will help you to achieve the desired sound.
- Be careful not to overuse sub-bass. Too much sub-bass can make your mix sound muddy and boomy.
By following these tips, you can use sub-bass to add depth, power, and excitement to your EDM music.