How to tame boomy bass frequencies on live gigs

When attending a music concert, one of the most annoying things that can happen is the sound of boomy frequencies. Boomy frequencies are low-frequency sounds that cause a vibrating sensation and make the overall mix sound muddy. This can be especially problematic in a large venue and can make it difficult to listen to the music. Fortunately, there are a few ways to mitigate the problem of boomy frequencies and make the concert experience more enjoyable.

My tool of choice to solve such problems is using a parametric EQ pedal. I have an Empress ParaEQ, but you can pick any model you like.

Here is how it goes:

1. Set the frequency knob to an average position – like 500Hz.
2. Set the Q narrow.
3. Turn up the volume of that frequency (500Hz) very loudly.
4. Start sweeping your frequency down – 400, 300, 200, etc…
5. Somewhere probably below 250Hz or something, you will hear a very loud WWWOOOOOO sound. That’s your problematic frequency. Stop there.
6. Turn the volume of that frequency back to center, then cut until the WOOOO gets bearable.
7. On another channel, make a “wide” frequency boost “slightly” around that frequency to balance things out.

This approach helped me many times in difficult venues. I hope that it helps you too.