Quote Originally Posted by Evil G
that was it! :)

noise from the high hats was masking distortion on the lead synth and making it sound softer and warmer. when i cut the mids out of the hi hats it made the synth harsher.
Glad you worked it out!

That was a great idea you came up with, btw.

Going to try it myself 'cause I've been experiencing the same problems as you.

Cheers!