Snare Drum - Key Frequencies By: DAWsopenat7 No comments

Here are some key frequencies of a snare drum to pay close attention to when mixing. Keep in mind that fundamentals can change depending on the material, dimension and depth of the drum as well as other variants such as the type of head, snares, sticks and range of tuning.

160-250Hz - low end, weight, punch ( the weight of a snare is found in quite a wide spectrum because it depends on the size and material of the drum, as well as the tuning) 

300-400Hz - woodiness (an interesting area that I sometimes boost and other times cut depending on whether it's needed)

500-800Hz - snare ring (dependant on type and tuning of the snare, gently cut here if needed but be careful as this can remove a lot of character from the drum, try using moon gel at the recording stage to reduce unwanted ring) 

1.5-2.5KHz - attack, crack (mid frequency smack and stick definition, another area I gently boost or cut depending on what i'm listening for) 

4-6KHz - snare wires (can be very brittle sounding, but with careful boosting can help the snare cut through) 

7-12KHz - air, brightness (add for extra sweetness but be careful of increasing cymbal bleed if you haven't used a gate)

Use these frequencies as a guide and use your own ears to decide what works best with the source you have recorded. 

If you're in need of editing, mixing or mastering services, head over to www.jwaudioproductions.co.uk and get in touch via the contact page.