E and A resonating?

Shagula · #1 08-09-2007, 03:42 PM

I'm trying to play a simple intro for Come as you are (Nirvana)

And after playing the 0-0-1-2 on D, E and A have this really annoying resonation (as the best way that I can describe it). I don't quite even touch the strings, yet there's sound coming out from them and I think it's particularly when I play the 2nd fret on D.

It's an amazingly powerful sound after it builds up after a few seconds, is very distracting, and doesn't go with the song at all.

So my question is, technique on playing the line, bass electronics? Anything of the sort that can help me figure out this problem.

Playing on a Fender Squier starter kit.

J.D.B. · #2 08-09-2007, 04:23 PM

Do you still hear this if you try muting the other strings when your not playing them?
Josh

Chipsonfire · #3 08-09-2007, 04:32 PM

My guess is that it's sympathetic vibration. The second fret on D would give you an E which would cause your open E to vibrate as well. You need to learn some muting techniques if this is the case.

Matthew Bryson · #4 08-09-2007, 05:02 PM

I'm not sure what's going on with your bass, could be a (lack of) muting issue... but, I was just gonna say - if I recall correctly, Come as You Are is not played on the low E - start on a middle octave E and play between the 7th and 9th frets.

Shagula · #5 08-09-2007, 05:30 PM

Alright, I've tried a lot of different things as I play them, some work, some have others while waiting for replies.

I'll definitely work on my muting, as that seems to be the problem in this case. Thanks for the replies and furthering my technique more =)

Alvaro Martín Gómez A. · #6 08-10-2007, 12:16 PM

Of course, muting is a technique that should never be overlooked, but personally I'd never play that line that way. I'd use the A string on the 5th, 6th and 7th frets plus the D string on the 5th fret.

bburk · #7 08-10-2007, 12:28 PM

My bet is that you plant your thumb on the pickup and eq the bass up loud. Am I right?

If I am, you are going to need to concentrate on your muting technique.

DocBop · #8 08-10-2007, 12:48 PM

You have to learn to mute with both left and right hands. Different situation call for different types of muting that is why you need to learn multiple ways to mute. For the right hand there is floating thumb and finger muting, left hand is all finger muting.

Todd Johnson who has a forum here on TB in the Pro section has some videos on YouTube demoing floating thumb. There are Gary Willis YouTubes on his right hand finger muting. As I say about everything learn them all and then don't think about it, when you play you will subconsciously use the one right for the situation.