Music Instrument Frequency Cheatsheet

Knowing the ranges that instruments and voices occupy in the frequency spectrum is essential for any mixer. As a handy reference, Sweetwater has put together a
Music Instrument Frequency Cheatsheet, listing common sources and their "magic frequencies" — boost/cut points that tend to produce pleasing results. Most importantly, trust your own ears!

Sub Low-frequency Mid-range High Mid-range High-frequency

BASS Weight Growl Snap Sheen

GUITAR
KICK Punch Boxiness Click
DRUM

SNARE Girth Box Bark Crispness Snap

DRUM

HI-HAT Body Sizzle Overtones

CYMBALS Meat Clang/Sizzle Overtones

ELECTRIC Girth Presence Buzz

GUITAR

ACOUSTIC Bloom Body Presence

GUITAR

ORGAN Meat Body Presence

PIANO Bloom Presence Overtones

SOPRANO Fundamental Body Presence Air

VOICE
TENOR Fundamental Body Presence Air
VOICE

TENOR Growl Bite Overtones Air

SAX

Hz 30 50 100 200 300 500 1K 2K 3K 5K 10K 20K