Scooped Mids in Guitar Tone

Introduction to Scooped Mids

• Scooped Mids: A guitar tone setting where the mid-range frequencies are reduced.
• Context: This tone was popularized historically but is now often criticized or used selectively.

Historical Context

• Pre-Roadster Days: Guitarists often adjusted tone based on personal preference without much technical understanding.
• Popular Amps:
  • Carvin Legacy and VHT Pittbull 45 were used, known for contrasting purposes.
  • Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifiers and Mark IV: Known for their distinct EQ settings and criticized for scooping mids.

Changing Trends

• Shift in Tone Preferences:
  • Historically, scooping mids was common due to the influence of popular guitarists.
  • Recording vs. Live Performance: Scooped sounds might work in solo settings but often fail in band setups.
  • Modern Preferences: More mid-range is favored for clarity, especially in lower tunings.

Technical Insights

• EQ Adjustments:
  • Typically, mids are adjusted to balance between clarity and presence in a mix.
  • Fletcher/Munson Curves: Refers to how humans hear different frequencies at different volume levels, influencing tone settings.

Challenges with Scooped Mids

• Potential Issues:
  • Scooped mids can sound weak or "muddy" in a band mix.
  • Requires careful EQ management to ensure clarity and presence in a mix.
  • Mid-heavy amps like the Mark series may naturally counteract extreme scooping.

Notable Opinions

• Recording Tips:

  • Sometimes obnoxious tones work better in dense mixes.
  • Live performances require effective sound engineering to balance scooped tones.

• Influential Musicians:

  • Pantera: Often associated with scooped mids, showcasing challenges in live environments.
  • John Petrucci: Example of managing mids for clarity without apparent scooping.

Modern Interpretations

• Current Practices:
  • Layering Tracks: Suggested for achieving a thicker sound with scooped tones.
  • Tone in Live Settings: Requires sophisticated sound systems and skilled sound engineers.

Conclusion

• Tone Evolution: Preferences have evolved, leading to changes in how guitarists approach EQ settings.
• Practical Advice: Guitarists are encouraged to experiment and listen critically, adapting tones to the context of use.

Key Takeaways

• "Use your ears" is a common recommendation; however, understanding the context and technical aspects of tone is crucial.
• Scooped mids can be effective if used correctly, but careful balancing is necessary to avoid being lost in the mix.