I've been slapping regularly for a few months now and have tried many techniques. However, my tone has this metallic "click" sound that chokes out the true tone when the string hits the frets. It doesn't sound good in my opinion, so I'm trying to get rid of it. Other slappers have told me that the intent is to have a percussive sound, but it is too percussive and the "clicking" sound drives me crazy. Any ideas on how to get rid of it?

I was thinking that maybe my action is too low. I was at a camp with Gary Willis and he lowered the action for me. I've gotten used to it and prefer it to be that low, but I don't know if that is what's causing the excessive clicking sound. Any ideas or suggestions? Or does it sound like a technique problem?

Can you post a sample?

I'll try to post a sample if I can. My recording equipment isn't working well right now, but I'll see what I can do. But try to imagine the clicking sound that results from the string striking the frets. It's similar to the sound you get with left hand slaps, but the true note does not ring out as much as it should.

Hm, so I guess you should raise the action a tiny bit. Also try using a lighter touch for slapping, you don't need much strength.

Originally posted by JMX
Also try using a lighter touch for slapping, you don't need much strength.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ That's the one (IMO) For me, low action even for slap bass. I suggets you try practicing a slap motion where your thumb just grazes the string that is being played and comes to rest against the next (higher string) I find that in actual playing my thumb doesn't usually come to rest against the next string, but practicing that way has improved my technique greatly. Softer slapping is better.

I hope that wasn't to confusing, it confused me a bit typing it....

Yes, it's amazing how slapping (or playing fingerstyle for that matter) with less force can give you more power, speed and control.

i agree... for what its worth....


did you try the tv?;)