In this episode, Ben & Carl get into the gritty business of making bass actually work in a mix. Not just technically — but emotionally, musically, and physically. We challenge each other’s instincts, admit when we’re wrong, and debate who should own the sub: the bass or the kick?
Spoiler: it depends — but we each have our go-to moves and a few spicy disagreements.
Discover:
- Whether bass should be felt, heard… or both
- The kick vs. bass power struggle (and how we each resolve it)
- Why sub-bass and electric bass don’t always play nice
- Dynamic EQ, sidechaining, and the art of subtle carving
- What frequencies actually matter most for bass perception
- “I Used to Be Cool” — and other producer identity crises
Ben and Carl's Weekly Inspiration Playlist -
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1IpnxDVoTY44JBV1j19H4h?si=0f80e020d8ae497eLA Wildfire Relief:
Musicares -
https://donor.musicares.org/page/lafirereliefWAMTN -
https://give.wearemovingtheneedle.org/campaign/654724/donateLearn more about StudioLand -
https://www.welcometostudioland.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" -
https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:
Secret Sonics -
https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen -
https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl -
https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Learn more:
https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff -
https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/