What is bass?

We all know that an absolutely integral part of listening to music, is good sound quality. And integral to good sound quality, is the right amount of bass. You’d have also often seen the term being thrown around while looking for a pair of headphones or speakers to purchase. 

Especially, soundbars and subwoofers. However, have you ever wondered just what the term actually means? Read on to find out all about what it is, and why it is important to enjoy your music. 

What bass is and how it is produced

Low frequency sounds which give the songs depth and richness, are referred to as ‘bass’. These deep tones are not only perceived but also physically felt, making music a visceral and immersive experience for the audience.

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Bass can be reproduced by many instruments using like the bass guitars, double basses, or even synthesisers. What’s more, the lower ranges of pitch tracks can also be generated using vocals.

Why is bass important?

Bass is far more than just a factor that guarantees good sound quality in our music. It provides for balance in the composition. Think of a building. Well, bass is the foundation that carries the weight of the structure, and ensures it doesn’t collapse. The same way, bass in a song gives it the rhythmic and harmonised base that secures the entire song.

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Bass’ influence spans across genres, from the mellow basslines in soul and RnB to heavy basslines in other music genres such as hip-hop and electronic dance music, the jazz and of course, rock music. It essentially helps make listening to music a more complex and comprehensive experience, giving it low, mid, and high frequencies, and makes them interact in a dynamic manner.