The gain levels for each instrument can vary depending on the specific track and the desired sound. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Kick Drum: The kick drum is the most important element of the techno beat and should be the loudest element in the mix. The gain level should be set to around -6dB to -3dB.
- Bass: The bassline is also a crucial element in techno and should be clear and punchy without overpowering the kick drum. The gain level should be set to around -9dB to -6dB.
- Synths/Lead: Synths and lead elements can vary widely in gain level depending on the track, but generally, they should be slightly lower than the kick drum and bassline, around -9dB to -12dB.
- Percussion/Hats: Percussion and hi-hats should be at a lower gain level than the kick drum and bassline but should still be audible in the mix. The gain level should be set to around -12dB to -15dB.
- Effects: Effects such as reverb, delay, and distortion should be used sparingly and should not overpower the other elements in the mix. The gain level should be set to around -18dB to -24dB.
It’s important to note that these are just general guidelines, and the gain levels may need to be adjusted based on the specific track and the desired sound. Additionally, the gain levels may vary depending on the arrangement of the track and the transitions between different sections.
The frequencies to boost and cut for each instrument can vary depending on the specific track and the desired sound. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Kick Drum: The kick drum is the foundation of the techno beat and should have a full and punchy sound. Boosting the low-end frequencies around 60Hz to 100Hz can help to give the kick drum more weight, while cutting the high-end frequencies around 2kHz to 4kHz can help to reduce any harshness or clickiness in the sound.
- Bass: The bassline is an essential element in techno and should have a clear and defined sound that sits well with the kick drum. Boosting the low-end frequencies around 40Hz to 80Hz can help to give the bass more depth, while cutting the low-mid frequencies around 200Hz to 400Hz can help to reduce any muddiness in the sound.
- Synths/Lead: Synths and lead elements can vary widely in frequency content depending on the track, but generally, they should have a clear and bright sound that cuts through the mix. Boosting the mid-high frequencies around 1kHz to 4kHz can help to give synths and lead elements more presence, while cutting the low frequencies around 100Hz to 300Hz can help to reduce any muddiness or rumble in the sound.
- Percussion/Hats: Percussion and hi-hats should have a clear and crisp sound that adds to the energy of the track. Boosting the high-end frequencies around 8kHz to 16kHz can help to give percussion and hi-hats more brightness and sparkle, while cutting the mid frequencies around 500Hz to 1kHz can help to reduce any harshness or boxiness in the sound.
- Effects: Effects such as reverb, delay, and distortion should be used sparingly and should not overpower the other elements in the mix. Boosting the mid-high frequencies around 2kHz to 4kHz can help to give effects more presence, while cutting the low frequencies around 100Hz to 300Hz can help to reduce any muddiness or rumble in the sound.
It’s important to note that these are just general guidelines, and the frequency content may need to be adjusted based on the specific track and the desired sound. Additionally, the frequency content may vary depending on the arrangement of the track and the transitions between different sections. It’s always best to use your ears and adjust the frequency content to achieve the desired sound.