I play in a country dance band; have done so for six years now. We also do a bit of cajun, classic rock, etc. and have a weekly outdoor gig.
I am constantly searching for my sound, but in two areas I have stopped searching: bass and preamp/direct box. The bass for me is the Barker. The preamp/d.i. is the Phil Jones Bass Buddy.
The PJB BB gives me clarity. I suppose transparency is the best descriptive word I can think of. Even running the compressor, I often catch myself looking back to see if it is kicking in. (geez)
I am intrigued by what Lee said about PJ's two tracks re: electronics and speakers. I also have a PJB Briefcase, and it sounds great but just doesn't have enough depth in the low frenquencies for me. It is a great clean acoustic/electric guitar amp.
For cabinets, I currently use any combination of two Eminence Delta Lite 15s and an Eminence Legend b102. I use a Stewart World 600 for amplification. I like it a lot but I need a bit more power/headroom so I may upgrade.
The problem I have with the PJB is that it is so clean I can now hear all the little bits I didn't get to hear before. Sure, things like frequencies resonating, fingers squeaking, poor intonation, but also the subtle differences in the tone knob and volume knob positioning (and all their combinations), where I play with my right hand, etc. This great bass tone is really complicating my life with all the different sounds I can get.
Life was much simpler playing the Washburn through the Peavey.
BTW, the PJB BB replaced a GK mbe150 that I used as a combo and also as a preamp, depending on venue. I like the sound of the PJB BB & Stewart better.
later, ron
