Boomy mix? High-pass everything that isn't bass

A mix often sounds boomy because keys, pads, guitars and vocals all carry low-frequency rumble you can't even hear on its own. Together it adds up and muddies the low end. Put a high-pass filter on everything except the kick and bass, around 100 to 150 Hz, and the low end belongs to them again.

How to do it

1. Put an EQ on a pad, keys, guitar or vocal track.
2. Add a high-pass (low-cut) filter.
3. Raise it until the sound starts to get thin, then back it off a little.
4. Do the same on every track that isn't kick or bass.
5. Listen to the whole mix: the kick and bass should sound tighter.

Why it works

Low frequencies carry a lot of energy. Even quiet rumble on many tracks adds up and eats your headroom and clarity.