High-Pass
A High-Pass (also known as a low-cut filter) is a basic but important sound shaping tool used in music production, live sound, and audio engineering. It's like a gate that lets higher-pitched sounds through while blocking lower ones. Sound professionals use this to clean up recordings by removing unwanted low rumbles, make instruments sound clearer in a mix, or prevent feedback in live performances. When you see this term in a resume, it indicates that the candidate understands fundamental sound cleaning and mixing techniques.
Examples in Resumes
Applied High-Pass filters to clean up vocal recordings in multiple album projects
Used High-Pass and Low-Cut techniques to eliminate stage rumble in live concert settings
Trained junior engineers in proper High-Pass filter implementation for podcast production
Typical job title: "Audio Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Audio Engineers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you decide where to set high-pass filter frequencies in a complex mix?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should explain how they consider the instrument's fundamental frequencies, the overall mix context, and demonstrate knowledge of common frequency ranges for different instruments.
Q: Can you describe a challenging situation where high-pass filtering solved a major sound issue?
Expected Answer: They should provide specific examples from their experience, explaining the problem (like stage rumble or wind noise), their solution, and the results achieved.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between a gentle and steep high-pass filter, and when would you use each?
Expected Answer: Should explain that gentle slopes are more natural sounding and good for musical content, while steep slopes are better for eliminating specific problems without affecting nearby frequencies.
Q: How do you use high-pass filters in a live sound situation?
Expected Answer: Should discuss feedback prevention, reducing stage noise, and maintaining clarity in a live mix while considering different venue acoustics.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a high-pass filter and what is its basic purpose?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it removes low frequencies while letting higher frequencies pass through, and mention basic uses like cleaning up recordings or reducing rumble.
Q: At what frequency would you typically start high-pass filtering vocals?
Expected Answer: Should mention common starting points (around 80-100 Hz) and understand that it depends on the vocalist and the style of music.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of frequency ranges
- Simple high-pass filter application
- Recording cleanup techniques
- Basic mixing concepts
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced filter techniques
- Live sound optimization
- Multiple genre experience
- Problem-solving in various acoustic environments
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex mixing scenarios
- Training and mentoring ability
- Troubleshooting expertise
- Advanced sound design techniques
Red Flags to Watch For
- Inability to explain basic frequency concepts
- No practical experience with different types of audio equipment
- Lack of understanding about how high-pass affects overall sound quality
- No experience with professional audio software
Related Terms
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