Understanding Frequencies.

Each instrument fits into a certain frequency register. It is important to understand the basics on frequencies as it really helps when mixing each instrument and producing a whole mix. When you are mixing each instrument you have to make sure that you are mixing to make the whole track sound better rather than, just trying to make each track sound great on its own. This is because of frequency masking, this is when too many instruments sit in the same frequency register and it starts to get very over crowded and each instrument struggles to cut through the mix.

Frequency Masking:

Frequency masking is something often overlooked when mixing a track. It occurs when we are listening to a mix of instruments playing together at the same time and affects our perception. Let's

say our frequency spectrum above 5kHz gets filled up with loud playing cymbals. If we have a vocal part playing along, we will perceive it a lot less well around that frequency range since above 5kHz. The cymbal is “masking” other elements. It happens even if the vocals themselves sound good and bright in solo, this does not mean that they will sit perfectly in the mix.

(What is Frequency Masking?, 2020)