On your phone? Grab 2 free plugins now and download them on your computer later.
Get them freeArrangement
Beat sounds cluttered? Mute things until it hits
A cluttered beat usually has too many parts fighting for the same space. Three strong parts beat seven weak ones. Mute things one by one, and only bring back what you miss.
How to do it
- Play the busiest part of the beat on loop.
- Mute one track at a time.
- If you don't miss it, leave it muted.
- Keep the parts that carry the groove, the harmony and the hook.
- Bring muted parts back later in the song for variation.
Why it works
Every part takes up frequencies, rhythm and attention. With fewer parts, each one can be louder, fuller and more important.
Free starter pack
2 plugins, free. Forever.
Toaster adds warm saturation and Key Finder shows the key, BPM and chords live in your DAW. Make a free account and they're yours.
Get them freeMore tips
- How do I make my build-up build?Start with a low-pass filter almost closed, then open it slowly over 8 or 16 bars. The oldest build-up trick there is.Read and watch →
- Why doesn't my drop hit hard?Take everything out for one beat right before the drop. The silence makes the drop feel much bigger.Read and watch →
- Why does my mix sound muddy?A muddy mix almost always means too much energy in the low mids, around 200 to 500 Hz. Here's how to find it and cut it, with a before and after.Read and watch →