Snare sounds thin? Add 3 dB at 200 Hz

Boost the snare about 3 dB around 200 Hz with a medium bell. That's where its body, the 'thump' of the drum, lives. Sweep between 150 and 250 Hz to find the spot that sounds fullest. If there's nothing there to boost, layer a snare or clap that has body.

How to do it

1. Put an EQ on the snare.
2. Add a bell at 200 Hz and boost about 3 dB.
3. Sweep between 150 and 250 Hz to find the fullest spot.
4. Listen with the kick: the snare should hit, not just tick.
5. If boosting does nothing, layer a second snare with more body under it.

Why it works

A snare has two parts: the body of the drum at around 150 to 250 Hz and the crack of the wires high up. Many samples are bright and lean, so a small boost on the body brings the weight back.