Beats are Like Cake: Understanding Sound Design Through Layers of Frequency Bands

Today, we’ll explain music frequency bands by comparing them to layers of a cake. Welcome to the delicious world of music!

Foundation Layer: Low Frequency Range (20Hz – 250Hz)

The bottom layer of the cake is the low frequency range, which forms the foundation of music.

• Key players: Bass, kick drum
• Characteristics: Forms the basis of rhythm and harmony in music
• Caution: Maintain appropriate levels to avoid muddiness

This layer plays a crucial role in supporting the entire cake.

Middle Layer: Mid-Frequency Range (250Hz – 2kHz)

The middle layer of the cake is the mid-frequency range where the main elements of music gather.

• Key players: Vocals, guitar, piano, and other main instruments
• Characteristics: Core part of the music, center of melody and harmony
• Caution: Be careful not to overlap frequencies of different instruments

This layer determines the main flavor of the cake.

Top Layer: High Frequency Range (2kHz – 20kHz)

The top layer of the cake is the high frequency range that adds brilliance to the music.

• Key players: Cymbals, hi-hats, noise elements
• Characteristics: Adds clarity and air to the music
• Caution: Adjust moderately to avoid harshness

This layer adds vibrancy to the entire cake.

Using Filters: Adjusting the Layers

Like adjusting cake layers, use filters to adjust each frequency band.

• Low-pass filter: Cuts high frequencies (trims the top layer)
• High-pass filter: Cuts low frequencies (trims the bottom layer)
• Band-pass filter: Allows only specific frequency bands (keeps only specific layers)

Example with Rap and Chorus

Rap part:

• Apply low-pass filter to the sample: Cut the top layer, emphasize middle and bottom layers
• Effect: Highlights the rap vocals (mid-range)

Chorus part:

• Remove low-pass filter: Restore all layers
• Effect: Opens up the sound, becomes brighter

Conclusion

Music production is like making a cake by skillfully combining layers of frequency bands. By balancing each layer and adjusting with filters, you can create wonderful music that resonates with listeners. Be conscious of the balance between low, mid, and high frequencies, and aim for a mix that brings out the characteristics of each part. This will result in a delicious music cake that stays in the hearts of listeners! Why not become a patissier of frequency-conscious music production and create your own wonderful works?