Sample placement in mix.
🔊 Where the Sample Should Sit in the Mix
🎯 Goal:
Let the drums (especially the kick and snare) dominate, while the sample provides character and mood without overpowering.
🎚️ General Volume Guidelines (in dBFS or relative balance)
Element Typical Level Notes
Kick -6 dBFS (peak) Punchy and dominant
Snare -6 to -8 dBFS Should cut through clearly
Sample -10 to -12 dBFS (peak) Sits under drums to leave room
Bass -8 to -10 dBFS Solid but not muddy
Hi-hats / FX -12 to -18 dBFS Tucked in for groove and air
🛠️ How to Mix the Sample in Context
Start with the Drums First
Get your kick, snare, and hats right first — full, clear, and punchy.
Bring in the Sample After
Lower its fader and slowly raise it until it feels supportive, but doesn’t compete with the snare or vocals (if present).
Use EQ Wisely
High-pass the sample (cut below 100–150Hz) to make space for the kick and bass.
Carve a notch around 200–400Hz if it’s too muddy.
Dip around 1–3kHz if it's clashing with the snare.
Consider Stereo Position
If the drums are center-heavy (mono or narrow), you can widen the sample with stereo imaging (like the Overtone GEQ you use).
Sidechain if Needed
Light sidechain compression can help the kick punch through the sample.
🎧 Final Tip:
Play your mix at low volume — if the sample is too loud, it’ll overpower the beat when quiet. If it sounds good at low volume, you’re probably close.
