Check Out Matthew Weiss’s Mixing Rhythmic Music Bundle Here
The Importance of 808s in Modern Music
In today’s music landscape, 808s have become an essential element across various genres. While they originated in hip-hop and EDM, their influence has permeated country, rock, and pop music. Their unique sound can add depth, drive and a consistent low end to a track, making them a staple for producers and musicians alike.
However, not all 808s are created equal. Some may lack the desired quality or character, leading producers to seek ways to enhance their sound. This blog explores techniques to make even the most unremarkable 808s sound phenomenal.
What Exactly Is An 808 Kick?
An 808 kick is a type of bass drum sound that originates from the Roland TR-808 drum machine, a groundbreaking piece of music equipment released in 1980. The TR-808 was a drum machine that used analog synthesis instead of the now more modern technqiue of using samples to generate its sounds, and its bass drum sound—known simply as the 808 kick—became iconic in various music genres, particularly hip-hop, trap, and electronic music.
Characteristics of an 808 Kick:
Characteristics of an 808 Kick:- Deep Bass: The 808 kick is famous for its deep, resonant bass, often extending into the sub-bass frequencies.
- Long Decay: It can have a long decay, meaning the sound can sustain and resonate for a significant period after being struck, adding weight and power to a track.
- Punchy Attack: Despite its long decay, it typically has a sharp, punchy attack, giving it a clear and distinct presence in a mix.
- Versatility: The sound can be tuned, distorted, and manipulated to fit various musical contexts, from smooth and subtle to aggressive and in-your-face.
Cultural Impact:
The 808 kick has become a staple in modern music production. Its influence is so pervasive that “808” has become shorthand for a deep, booming bass drum sound, even when the sound is created using digital plugins rather than the original TR-808 machine. It’s particularly associated with the trap genre, where the 808 kick often serves as the foundation of the beat.
Understanding the Flaws of 808 Samples
Not all 808 Kick samples are craeted equal! One p[erson’s ideal 808 sound for their production amy not work for yours. So, before diving into the solutions, it’s crucial to recognize what makes some 808 samples less than ideal. Often, an 808 can have a digital square tone, heavy clipping, and metallic overtones that detract from its overall quality. These issues can create an unflattering sound that lacks the warmth and richness typically associated with 808s.
For instance, consider an 808 that sounds thin and lacks low-mid presence. When isolated, it may reveal a harsh sound with unwanted artifacts, making it difficult to integrate into a mix. Identifying these flaws is the first step toward improvement.
Techniques for Enhancing Your 808s
Fortunately, there are several effective techniques for transforming a mediocre 808 into a powerful and impactful sound. Below, we outline a step-by-step approach to achieve this goal.
1. Applying a Low Pass Filter
The first step in enhancing your 808 is to apply a low pass filter. This technique helps eliminate unwanted high-frequency content, allowing you to focus on the fundamental frequencies of the 808. Setting the cutoff frequency to around 80-90 Hz will help isolate the sub-bass elements, giving your 808 a more robust foundation.
By doing this, you can reduce the harshness and metallic overtones, creating a smoother sound that sits well in the mix. As a result, the 808 will feel more cohesive with other instruments, especially in genres that rely heavily on low-end frequencies.
2. Introducing Distortion
Next, adding distortion can help bring back the character and presence of your 808. A guitar pedal-style distortion can be particularly effective for this purpose. The goal is to enhance the mid-range frequencies and add harmonic content without compromising the integrity of the sound.
Using a plugin like Waves Overdrive, you can dial in the right amount of distortion to achieve a rich and full-bodied tone. Adjusting the mid-range boost will allow you to find the sweet spot where the 808 complements other elements in your mix.
3. Layering with a Kick Drum
To further refine the sound of your 808, consider layering it with a kick drum. This technique can help define the transient attack and provide a punchy quality that enhances the overall impact. By carefully selecting a kick that complements the 808, you can create a powerful low-end foundation that drives the track forward.
When layering, ensure that the kick and 808 are in phase to avoid phase cancellation, which can weaken the sound. Adjusting the levels and EQ of both elements will help them blend seamlessly, resulting in a cohesive low-end presence.
Using Guitar Pedals for Enhanced Sound
For those who prefer analog gear and love thinking outside the box (every pun intended!) using physical guitar pedals can yield remarkable results. If you have access to a reamp setup, you can send your 808 through various pedals to experiment with different distortion and tonal characteristics.
One innovative approach is to use guitar pedals like the D.O.D. Juice Box or other distortion. These types of pedal can provide unique tonal qualities that digital plugins may not replicate. By tweaking the distortion settings and mid-range frequencies, you can create a unique 808 sound that stands out in any mix.
Summarizing the Process
To summarize, the process of transforming your 808s involves a few key steps:
- Apply a low pass filter to isolate the fundamental frequencies.
- Add distortion to enhance the mid-range and harmonic content.
- Layer with a kick drum to define the transient and boost impact.
- Consider using physical guitar pedals for unique tonal qualities.
By following these techniques, you can take any 808 sound, regardless of its initial quality, and turn it into a powerful and intentional element within your music and create something unique! In a world where everyone has access to the same virtual instruments creating your own indiviual sounds will set you apart!
Conclusion
Enhancing your 808s is not just about fixing flaws; it’s about understanding the sound and shaping it to fit your musical vision. With the right techniques and tools, you can transform even the most basic 808 into a huge, impactful sound that drives your tracks forward.
Whether you’re working on hip-hop, pop, or any other genre, these methods will help you achieve the desired low-end presence and character. Experiment with different settings, trust your ears, and let your creativity guide you to the perfect 808 sound.
For those looking to deepen their mixing skills, consider exploring more comprehensive courses and resources available online such as Matt Weiss’ Pro Mix Academy Courses. With practice and experimentation, you’ll soon be able to produce tracks with 808s that not only sound great but also elevate your music to new heights.
Remember, sound is an instrument, and with the right approach, you can make your 808s truly shine.
