Getting a EUB to sound more like a UB?

Downunderwonder · #1 03-16-2011, 08:03 AM

I'm a rocker but the jazz lures and we have an improv piano trio about to hit the scene.

How do I get my EUB to sound more like a "real one"? Through Trace Elliot GP12SMX and 15 it rawks playing rock. I've played about with the EQ and got nothing to really smile about. It seems to lack UB "depth".

I've tried the sansamp in front of it but it makes it very prone to feedback.

The bandmates are fine with the tone as it is but I feel like I could do so much better. 12 bands of EQ, compressors, preshapes, and EQ balance should get closer than what I've got. My little practice amp only plays down to 80Hz but it sounds better.

buffalobillh · #2 03-16-2011, 08:22 AM

Some amps just seem to work better for EUB. My SWR SM 400 is NOT a good match, despite its vast array of tonal options. My Peavey Tour 700/Dietz 15" and my Eden Nemesis 112 combo are much better. The Peavey has raw power and clean sound, and although the Eden is smaller in size and wattage, it produces a stellar sound. With the Peavey, I can round out the sound with the contour control exactly how I want it. I also use a line boost instead of a preamp, and I include a 7 band EQ to fine tune the sound for each venue we play.

I play an NS NXT5, and I found the need to change strings to get a better upright sound. Now you can't tell it's not an upright. I get a really nice fat, round, yet clear sound. The EQ helps keep it round but not muddy.

I've played my NS through a Trace Elliot/Ampeg 4x10 rig before. Like you, I thought it was good, but not my ideal sound.

Downunderwonder · #3 03-16-2011, 08:53 AM

Thanks for the feedback. Mine's got the stock strings from Stagg. I'd restring it if it would make a big difference.

What are you doing with EQ? I can't believe how good my little practice amp sounds at low volume. Makes me think I can EQ it to be similar on the rig but relative to "rawk mode" it comes out weedy or boomy. Can't find the jazz ground.

Arjank · #4 03-16-2011, 09:22 AM

I also have an EUB (semi-acoustic) and it sounds way more authentic through my 1st gen BBE bass-preamp then through my BBE Bmax-T(which sounds definitely superior on my electric bass).
The 1st gen BBE sounds a bit muffled on electric bass, thats why it probably sounds better on my EUB then my BBE Bmax-T(tube pre-amp) which has tons of clarity.

MNAirHead · #5 03-16-2011, 09:29 AM

Restringing makes a huge difference.. unfortunatley it's not cheap...

Then there's setup and technique.

Downunderwonder · #6 03-16-2011, 09:36 AM

It's got a plastic bridge which can be raise or lowered. I'm happy where it is from the factory but any suggestions on that are welcome.

Technique is something I've been concentrating on. I'm not blessed with much flesh on my fingers but I do my best to stroke some meat "across" rather than pull/pluck with the tips, up the fingerbord a little.

GrowlerBox · #7 03-16-2011, 01:53 PM

There are many threads on this topic over on the DB side; there's even an EUB forum!!!

Strings are helpful -- I use Spirocore weich gauge. Usually raising the action a little aids a DB technique, which really is paramount -- if you don't play it like a DB, it'll never sound like one. Amplification can only do so much; that said, I am getting a much darker, woodier tone from my TCE RH450 than I did from my Markbass F1, which I guess is not surprising.

chadds · #8 03-17-2011, 06:23 AM

Side of index finger.
Shocking revelation: get a '51 P-bass reissue. Hear upright in your head and play that sound. They can sound extremely realistic.