Low-Frequency Effects

pfista

pfista

Well-known member
Hello,
I've always wondered how you create the LFE in movies. I know its between 20hz-40hz and all of that, but I just don't know what I need to create it or how to record it somewhere. Is there some type of synthesizer out there or program to create this?

Thanks,
Michael
 
There's all sorts of ways to create LFE tracks for movies. Pitch shifting effects downward can provide all sorts of useful sub-bass effects. Another popular route is to use a bass-extender or subharmonic synthesizer such as the dbx 120A.

You can also use an EQ to boost the low frequency content of your tracks.

Yet another option is to specifically record low frequency sound effects. Kick drum mics such as the AKG D112 often have frequency responses that extend down to 20Hz or even lower. I rather like the D112 for this sort of thing because being a dynamic mic, it can take a lot of punishment. Gently blowing into the mic can give you some great bass sweeteners.
 
Thank you,

If I wanted to record LF sound effects, where would I do that? I probably won't be buying any synthesizers, unless there's a program that can create that type of thing.
 
You can record LF effects pretty much anywhere you can record conventional effects, all you need is a recorder and a mic (or other transducer) that will reach down low enough. Hydrophones, geophones, and contact transducers can also be used for LF effects. Just bear in mind that wind and handling vibration could be a real issue since you won't be rolling off any of the rumble.
 
Completly agree. Record or create your own. Without knowing the specifics of what you are trying to create, more often then not, your time will be better spent making it yourself. If you are talking about a huge explosion then using some stock f/x might be the way to go. Really a case by case basis.

Good luck
 
Plenty of hip-hop kick drum tracks are recorded with 6" monitor speakers, wired up as microphones. A google search could give you more ideas.

I noticed in my Sweetwater catalog, there's a virtual modeling synth plug-in that looks pretty interesting as well.
 
pfista said:
What about part of the sound track, or that kind of swishing noise that builds up before something gets hit. Is this recorded or done with a program as the soundtrack.

Such as the LFE's in http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=84838
Click to expand...

They are often reverse reverbs. Take the sound of your "hit", add a very wet, long reverb, then reverse the clip so it plays backwards. You could also PM the user who posted that clip and see if they could put you in touch with Gregor Phillips, the individual credited with audio post, and ask them directly.
 
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