3 ?'s- Stereo, Strings, Switching

thombo · #1 10-28-2008, 04:48 PM

do you ever rock a stereo setup (two amps that sound different simultaneously)?

i don't think i have ever see you don't have any basses w/ more than 4 strings, which i found kind of surprising considering you do some modern R&B stuff... do you ever use alternative tunings (ie; B-D) or just use a synth for low notes?

you have mentioned the benefit of being able to switch between multiple instruments (ie; electric & double bass, mandolin, guitar, & synth w/ NIN)... do you feel it is important to play for "mastery" or just proficiency?
i often feel that time spent playing other instruments is time i am neglecting my bass... this could be that i am simply frustrated at my lack of ability on other instruments though.

thank you for taking all of our questions on talkbass... i think we are all grateful!

jmjbassplayer · #2 10-28-2008, 07:03 PM

stereo: never, no.

more than 4 strings: not into it. I keep a 5-string around only as a last resort for the occasional producer who thinks that he needs those notes.

alternate tunings: constantly. 4-strings tuned down sound better than 5-strings to my ear.

playing for mastery: always a lofty, amitious goal. Mastery of parts? absolutely. High proficiency without effort or thought? Very important.

JMJ

JimmyM · #3 10-30-2008, 07:41 AM

Do you have any favorite alternate tunings that really shake things up, or is it mostly down-tuning the E string? I tried cello tuning for a while (C-G-D-A) but I gave up on it because of the stretches.

jmjbassplayer · #4 10-30-2008, 10:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JimmyM

Do you have any favorite alternate tunings that really shake things up, or is it mostly down-tuning the E string? I tried cello tuning for a while (C-G-D-A) but I gave up on it because of the stretches.

I like A# D# (low) D#(high) G#, I use that on my Guild acoustic bass live with NIN.

Also one tuning on my inca silver jag bass is C F B flat E flat.

JMJ

JimmyM · #5 10-30-2008, 10:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jmjbassplayer

I like A# D# (low) D#(high) G#, I use that on my Guild acoustic bass live with NIN.

Wow, that shakes things up, doesn't it?! Sort of like a downtuned 5er without an A string.

EDIT: Actually, more like a downtuned AND uptuned 5er without the A. Bet it would be really cool for doing octaves easily.