How To EQ TOMS Quickly
- James Arter
- Jul 6, 2023
- 1 min read
For some people, this is a tricky part of the drum kit to get right.
It’s easy to spend lots of time on the kick and snare because, let’s face it, they’re the most important parts of the kit really but make sure you don’t forget about the toms.
In the past, I found that I didn’t have the toms quite as high in the mix because I wasn’t that happy with how they sounded. Also, in a roundabout way, I kind of saw them as less important. But, they ARE important!
In this video, I take you through the basics of how to get them to sound good - quickly. The main thing is knowing where the frequencies are that you need to get rid of; the ones to boost are equally important but, if you get rid of the nasty bits first, you’ll find that you’re already most of the way there!
Anyway, I hope it helps!
Stay creative.
James
James, I really resonated with your point about previously seeing toms as 'less important' and not having them high in the mix due to dissatisfaction with their sound. It's a common trap to fall into, especially when the kick and snare demand so much initial attention. But a well-EQ'd tom can truly elevate the energy and impact of a fill. Beyond the technical know-how, sometimes the biggest hurdle in mixing, or any creative endeavor, is recognizing and overcoming our own biases or initial frustrations with a particular element. For those interested in the broader psychological aspects of creative work and how to approach challenges with a more effective mindset, exploring resources on how emotional intelligence can impact creative problem-solving can…
Want to try drumming? You can Start now with virtual drums! Online platforms offer accessible and fun ways to engage with percussion. Typically, you use your keyboard to play different parts of the drum set – kick, snare, toms, cymbals. It’s a fantastic way for beginners to learn about rhythm and beat construction, or for anyone to just enjoy making some noise and experimenting with grooves. The immediate feedback and the ability to play along with music can make it a very enjoyable and educational experience, all without the cost or space requirements of a physical drum set.
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