How to Make a Bass That Stands Out in the Mix

In addition to drum sounds and overall rhythm, the bass is undoubtedly one of the most essential elements that need a lot of attention in the mix. Making it stand out in the mix, especially in today's electronic dance music, can be a tedious process. This is something that requires time.

Try to Experiment

Bass frequencies can represent a challenge for many producers. In my opinion, a good thing would be to take a somewhat experimental approach when treating them. For this reason, I believe that, in most cases, a good start would be to make a low cut up to 40 Hz of the bass spectrum range. I'm doing this to cut unwanted muddiness. This will leave room for the kick drum, which usually has some frequency content in that range. Bearing this in mind, let me guide you through the steps needed for the bass to stand out in the mix.  

Sub Bass + Melody

I will make a solid sub-bass sound from a sinus waveform, accompanied by a touch of distortion, and last but not least, I will also play a melody from it.  

 

Once done, I will insert a REQ 2 Equalizer by Waves on the instrument channel rack, then cut the low frequencies below 40 Hz and make a high cut until 200 Hz.  

 

After ensuring it is in mono, let's add some sidechain compression. By doing this, the kick will stand out compared to the sub-bassline.  

~ Kick drum and Sub Bass with a side chain effect  

Furthermore, I will make a new instrument and copy the same melody from the bass channel. For example, a good choice for this sound would be to make two or more voice saw wave oscillators. Additionally, I will apply an equalizer with a low cut on this synth, say on 200 Hz, and further process it with distortion.  

~ Sub Bass and second bass layer  

Carefully blending those two sounds will produce a layered bass sound that stands out in the mix.  

~ Full Mix