When it comes to the question of whether your 808 should be louder than the kick drum in a mix, it ultimately depends on the specific sound you’re going for and the genre of music you’re working with. However, in the context of hip hop, it is generally accepted that the kick drum, especially the iconic 808 kick, should be one of the loudest elements in the mix.
To achieve this, one approach is to start with all your faders down and gradually bring up the volume of the kick drum until it stands out prominently in the mix. This allows you to establish a solid foundation and ensure that the kick is the driving force behind the rhythm and groove of the track.
It’s important to note that making the 808 kick louder doesn’t necessarily mean cranking up its volume to the point of distortion or overpowering other elements in the mix. Instead, it’s about finding the right balance and making sure the kick drum has enough presence and impact without overshadowing other important elements like vocals, melodies, and other percussive elements.
One technique that can help in achieving a loud and punchy kick sound is careful EQing. By carving out space for the kick drum in the low-end frequencies, you can enhance its impact and allow it to cut through the mix more effectively. This can be achieved by using a high-pass filter on other instruments to remove unnecessary low frequencies that might clash with the kick.
Additionally, compression can be used to further shape the sound of the kick drum and make it more present in the mix. By applying gentle compression, you can even out the dynamics of the kick, ensuring that each hit is consistent in volume and impact. This can help in creating a more cohesive and focused sound.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are no hard and fast rules in music production. It’s always a matter of experimentation and personal taste. Some tracks may call for a more balanced mix where the kick and 808 are at similar volumes, while others may benefit from a more pronounced and dominant kick drum.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a mix that sounds good and serves the overall vision of the song. Trust your ears and make adjustments accordingly. Remember that there are no fixed rules, only guidelines to help you achieve the desired sound.
In the context of hip hop, making the 808 kick drum louder than other instruments is often a common practice. Starting with all faders down and gradually bringing up the volume of the kick can help establish a solid foundation for the rhythm and groove. However, it’s important to maintain a balance in the mix and ensure that the kick doesn’t overpower other crucial elements. Experiment with EQing and compression techniques to shape the sound and find the right balance that suits your track. Trust your ears and make adjustments based on what sounds best for your specific song and style.