The Bass Frequency Spectrum
Bass frequencies are typically defined as the range from 20Hz to 250Hz. This range is further divided into distinct sub-ranges, each with its own characteristics.
Sub-Bass (20-60Hz)
Sub-bass is the lowest audible frequency range. These frequencies are often felt as much as heard.
Characteristics:
- Produces physical sensation in the chest and body
- Requires significant speaker/subwoofer capability
- Common in electronic music, movie soundtracks
- Difficult to reproduce accurately in small rooms
Examples:
- Pipe organ lowest notes
- EDM bass drops
- Earthquake and explosion effects in movies
Bass (60-250Hz)
This is where most "bass" instruments live.
Characteristics:
- Fundamental frequencies of bass guitar and kick drum
- Provides the "punch" in music
- Easier to reproduce than sub-bass
- Critical for rhythm and groove
Examples:
- Bass guitar fundamentals (41Hz - 400Hz)
- Kick drum (60Hz - 100Hz)
- Male vocal fundamentals
How Frequency Affects Sound
Lower frequencies (20-40Hz):
- More physical sensation than audible sound
- Requires large speakers to reproduce
- Adds weight and power to audio
Mid-bass (60-120Hz):
- Where most musical bass lives
- Provides punch and impact
- Critical for rhythm in music
Upper bass (120-250Hz):
- Adds warmth and body
- Can sound muddy if overdone
- Contains lower harmonics of many instruments
Testing Your System
Use our bass tester to:
- Identify your system's frequency response
- Find room modes (frequencies that are too loud or quiet)
- Check for distortion at different frequencies
- Calibrate your subwoofer crossover
Common Bass Problems
Boomy bass:
- Usually caused by room modes
- Peak in the 80-120Hz range
- Fix with positioning or EQ
Weak sub-bass:
- Often a speaker limitation
- Can be improved with a dedicated subwoofer
- Room size affects low frequency reproduction
Muddy bass:
- Too much energy in the 200-300Hz range
- Fix with EQ cuts in the upper bass
Conclusion
Understanding bass frequencies helps you make better decisions about your audio setup. Whether you're mixing music or setting up a home theater, knowing how different frequencies affect your sound is essential.