Academy

Frequency recognition

Build a map of the spectrum, from low to high, and learn to place a frequency by ear.

Beginner4 lessons≈ 31 min

Objectives

Link the main regions of the spectrum to sensations.
Place a frequency band within an octave.
Recognise how rich in harmonics a sound is.

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01The spectrum map
Octaves from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and their colours.
1. Thinking in octavesThe ear hears the spectrum in octaves: the right unit to find your way.
2. Memorising a pitchFinding a pure tone from memory trains frequency precision.
02Low end and harmonics
Where mixes are often won or lost.
1. Low-end regionsSub-bass, bass, low mids: three zones with very different effects.
2. The harmonic seriesHarmonics, multiples of the fundamental, make a sound rich.