5 Essential 808s for Your Tracks

808s for tracks

In the realm of electronic music production, the 808 has emerged as a cornerstone, shaping the sonic character of countless tracks. Its deep, pulsating basslines have permeated various genres, from hip-hop and trap to techno and house. However, selecting the perfect 808 for a track can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. This article will delve into the best types of 808s and provide essential insights to enhance your track production journey.

When choosing an 808, consider the overall tone and atmosphere of the track. For tracks that demand a heavy, aggressive presence, a classic Roland TR-808 sample or its modern emulations, such as the 808BD in Ableton Live, are excellent choices. These samples possess a punchy, resonant character that cuts through the mix and commands attention. Conversely, for tracks seeking a more refined, subtler bassline, a clean, sine-based 808 can be a suitable option. These 808s provide a warm, smooth foundation without overpowering the other elements in the track.

Customizing and layering 808s can further enhance the impact and uniqueness of your tracks. Techniques such as adding distortion, EQing, and layering different 808 samples can create complex, evolving basslines that captivate listeners. Experimenting with different combinations of samples and effects allows producers to tailor the 808 to fit perfectly within the sonic tapestry of their creations. Mastering the art of 808 selection and manipulation will elevate your productions and set your tracks apart from the ordinary.

The Essential 808: A Foundation for Modern Trap

The 808 bass drum, a staple of modern trap music, plays a pivotal role in setting the groove, adding weight and impact to the track. Understanding the intricacies of 808s is crucial for producers seeking to craft captivating and sonically impactful productions.

The Anatomy of an 808

An 808 sound consists of three main elements: the fundamental pitch, the decay envelope, and the sub-harmonics. The fundamental pitch, measured in hertz (Hz), determines the primary frequency of the bass drum sound. The decay envelope, represented as a curve, describes how the sound fades out over time, affecting its punchiness and sustain.

Sub-harmonics, frequencies below the fundamental, contribute to the overall warmth and depth of the 808. The balance between these elements creates a distinctive sound that serves as the backbone of trap music.

Frequency Range and Tuning

Most 808s are tuned within a specific frequency range, typically between C1 (32.70 Hz) and E2 (82.41 Hz). The exact tuning depends on the desired effect. Lower-tuned 808s produce a deeper, more resonant sound that adds weight to the track. Higher-tuned 808s, on the other hand, create a punchier, snappier sound that cuts through the mix with clarity.

Fundamental Frequency Range	Effect
C1 (32.70 Hz) – E1 (41.20 Hz)	Deep, resonant sound
E1 (41.20 Hz) – G1 (49.00 Hz)	Balanced, punchy sound
G1 (49.00 Hz) – E2 (82.41 Hz)	Punchy, snappy sound

Subharmonic 808s: Unlocking Deep and Powerful Basslines

Understanding Subharmonic Frequencies

Subharmonic frequencies are those that fall below the fundamental frequency of a sound. In the case of 808s, these subharmonics can extend below the audible range, providing a deep and resonant foundation for the bassline. By manipulating the subharmonic content of your 808s, you can create an immersive sonic experience that will shake dance floors to their core.

Achieving Subharmonic Depth and Power

To achieve subharmonic depth in your 808s, consider the following techniques:

Use a subwoofer or low-frequency driver: Dedicated subwoofers and low-frequency drivers are specifically designed to reproduce subharmonic frequencies with maximum power and precision.
Employ subharmonic synthesis: Various software tools and synthesizers allow you to generate subharmonic frequencies independently, adding depth and power to your basslines.
Layer multiple 808 samples: By layering 808s with different pitches and subharmonic content, you can create a complex and full-bodied bassline that resonates at various frequencies.

Examples of Subharmonic 808s in Popular Tracks

To further illustrate the impact of subharmonic 808s, here are some notable examples from popular tracks:

Track	Artist	Subharmonic Features
“Bass Cannon”	Flux Pavilion	Deep rumble and subharmonic foundation
“Harlem Shake”	Baauer	Subharmonic distortion and growl
“Levels”	Avicii	Subharmonic pulse and resonant depth

These examples showcase the transformative power of subharmonic 808s in creating captivating basslines that drive dance music to new heights.

Transient 808s: Shaping Attacks and Releases for Precision

1. Identifying Transient 808s

Transient 808s are characterized by their short, sharp impact. They are typically used to create a sense of urgency or excitement in a track.

2. Shaping the Attack

The attack of a transient 808 refers to how quickly the sound’s volume rises after it is triggered. By adjusting the attack time, you can control the intensity of the impact. A shorter attack time will create a more aggressive sound, while a longer attack time will produce a more mellow sound.

3. Shaping the Release

The release of a transient 808 refers to how quickly the sound’s volume decays after it is released. By adjusting the release time, you can control the tail of the sound. A shorter release time will create a punchier sound, while a longer release time will allow the sound to ring out for longer.

4. Finding the Right Balance

The key to using transient 808s effectively is to find the right balance between the attack and release times. This will depend on the specific track you are working on and the desired effect you want to achieve.

Desired Effect	Attack Time	Release Time
Aggressive, punchy	Short	Short
Mellow, warm	Long	Long
In-between	Medium	Medium

Resonant 808s: Creating Impactful and Atmospheric Textures

1. Enhancing Basslines with Resonant 808s

Resonant 808s add depth and intrigue to basslines. By manipulating the decay and resonance parameters, producers can create rumbling subs that permeate the mix, adding weight and substance to the overall sound.

2. Evocative Atmospheres with Resonant Pads

Beyond basslines, resonant 808s can serve as ethereal pads. By detuning the oscillators and applying subtle distortion, producers can generate atmospheric soundscapes that evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue. These pads complement vocals and melodies, creating an immersive and engaging listening experience.

3. Rhythmic Textures with Resonant Rolls

Resonant 808s excel in creating rhythmic textures. By programming short, resonant notes, producers can create rolls that add movement and pulse to the track. These rolls can accentuate beats, create fills, and provide a foundation for other elements in the mix.

4. Subharmonic Depth with Extended Resonances

Extending the resonance time of an 808 creates subharmonic frequencies that can add depth and richness to the low end. By carefully adjusting the decay and resonance parameters, producers can create rumbling subs that resonate in the lower octaves, providing a solid foundation for the rest of the frequency spectrum.

5. Advanced Techniques for Resonant 808s

To harness the full potential of resonant 808s, consider the following advanced techniques:

Technique	Effect
Envelope Control	Fine-tune the attack, decay, and release times to shape the resonant envelope.
Distortion and Saturation	Add grit and warmth to resonant 808s to create a more aggressive or vintage sound.
Modulation	Use LFOs or envelopes to modulate the resonance parameter, creating dynamic and evolving sounds.

Layered 808s: Blending Different Types for Maximum Impact

6. Layering 808s by Frequency Range:

To achieve a powerful and balanced 808 sound, consider layering 808s from different frequency ranges. This creates a more cohesive and impactful bassline.

Frequency Range	Characteristics
Sub-Bass (Below 60 Hz)	Provides a deep and rumbling foundation.
Mid-Bass (60-200 Hz)	Adds warmth and presence to the bassline.
Upper-Bass (200-500 Hz)	Defines the attack and transient of the note.

By blending 808s from these different frequency ranges, you can create a layered and impactful bassline that will enhance the overall sound of your track.

Distorted 808s: Adding Grit and Aggression to Your Mix

Distorted 808s are a powerful tool for adding a raw, aggressive edge to your tracks. By adding distortion to your 808s, you can create a sound that is both attention-grabbing and impactful.

There are many different ways to distort 808s, and the best method will vary depending on the desired sound. However, some common techniques include:

Using a distortion plugin.
Overdriving the input of your mixer.
Using a bit crusher.

Once you have chosen a distortion technique, it is important to experiment with different settings until you find a sound that you like. Here are some tips for getting the most out of distorted 808s:

Start with a small amount of distortion and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired sound.
Use a high-pass filter to remove any unwanted low-end frequencies.
Experiment with different types of distortion, such as overdrive, fuzz, and bit crushing.

Distortion Type	Characteristics
Overdrive	Warm, smooth distortion with a natural sound.
Fuzz	Thick, saturated distortion with a vintage sound.
Bit crushing	Digital distortion that creates a crunchy, pixelated sound.

Reverse 808s: Generating Unique and Interesting Rhythmic Patterns

Reverse 808s are a powerful technique for creating unique and interesting rhythmic patterns. By reversing the playback of an 808 sample, you can create a distinctive groove that sets your track apart.

Techniques for Creating Reverse 808s

Time Stretching: Slow down the sample by a significant amount, then reverse it. This creates a long, drawn-out release that can add a sense of space and atmosphere to your track.
Pitch Shifting: Reverse the sample and then pitch it down, creating a haunting and ethereal effect. Experiment with different pitch shifts to find the perfect balance for your track.
Layer Multiple Samples: Layer several reversed 808 samples with different pitches and durations to create a complex and evolving rhythmic tapestry.

Creative Applications

Percussive Patterns: Use short, reversed 808s to create intricate percussive patterns that add depth and interest to your beat.
Builds and Drops: Reverse 808s can build tension and anticipation leading up to a drop. Gradually increase the volume of the reversed sample as the energy builds, then release into a powerful drop.
Ambient Textures: Create atmospheric and ethereal textures by layering multiple reversed 808 samples with varying durations and pitches.

Effects and Processing

Reverb and Delay: Add reverb or delay to the reversed sample to create a sense of space and depth. Experiment with different reverb settings to find the perfect ambiance.
Distortion: Distort the reversed sample to add grit and aggression. Subtle distortion can enhance the percussive nature of the sample, while heavier distortion can create a more experimental or industrial sound.
Filtering: Use high-pass and low-pass filters to shape the frequency content of the reversed sample. High-pass filtering can remove unwanted low frequencies, while low-pass filtering can create a warmer, more rounded sound.

Atmospheric 808s: Enhancing Mood and Creating Cinematic Soundscapes

Enriching Tracks with Emotional Depth

Atmospheric 808s offer unparalleled expressiveness, conveying a wide range of emotions and setting the tone for immersive musical experiences.

Creating Cinematic Ambiance

These 808s are instrumental in crafting expansive and evocative cinematic soundscapes, adding depth and atmosphere to film scores and game soundtracks.

Influencing Mood and Atmosphere

Atmospheric 808s can dramatically influence the emotional impact of a track, evoking feelings of serenity, tension, or melancholia.

Selecting the Perfect Atmospheric 808s

To choose the most effective atmospheric 808s, consider the following:

Tempo: Match the 808’s tempo to the overall rhythm of the track.
Key: Select an 808 that complements or contrasts the melody in pitch.
Decay: Adjust the decay time to create the desired atmospheric effect.

Professional Production Techniques

For optimal mixing and mastering, apply these techniques:

EQ: Enhance clarity and remove unwanted frequencies.
Compression: Control dynamics and achieve a consistent level.
Reverb: Create a sense of space and ambiance.

Common Applications

Atmospheric 808s find widespread use in the following genres:

Electronic dance music (EDM)
Hip-hop
R&B
Cinematic compositions

Genre	Characteristics
EDM	Driving, resonant 808s that anchor the rhythm
Hip-hop	Subtle, yet punchy 808s that add weight to the beat
R&B	Smooth, mellow 808s that create a romantic atmosphere
Cinematic compositions	Deep, evocative 808s that enhance the emotional impact of scenes

Customizing 808s: Mastering the Art of Personalization

10. Experiment with Effects

Effects such as distortion, saturation, and reverb can add depth and character to your 808s. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for your track. For example, adding a touch of distortion can give your 808s a gritty, aggressive edge, while reverb can create a sense of space and atmosphere.

Effect	Description
Distortion	Adds a gritty, aggressive edge
Saturation	Enhances the harmonics and warmth
Reverb	Creates a sense of space and atmosphere

Best Types of 808s for Tracks

The 808 is a versatile drum machine that can be used to create a wide range of sounds. However, not all 808s are created equal. Some are better suited for certain genres of music than others. Here are a few things to consider when choosing an 808 for your track:

The genre of music you are producing.

The tempo and feel of your track.

The other instruments and sounds that you are using.

Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices. Here are a few of the best types of 808s for different genres of music:

Hip-hop: 808s with a deep, subby sound are ideal for hip-hop. These 808s will provide a solid foundation for your beats and help to create a sense of movement.
Trap: 808s with a sharp, aggressive sound are perfect for trap music. These 808s will help to create a sense of tension and excitement.
EDM: 808s with a more melodic sound are well-suited for EDM. These 808s can be used to create a variety of different sounds and effects.