Need help muting a played string

[sync00]

I'm using the Hal Leonard Bass Method. It says 'As you alternate fingers, place each finger down for the next stroke just slightly ahead of time, to mute the previous note. This will give you a more controlled bass sound'.

When I mute the notes I get a ringing harmonic (at least I think that's what it is) that doesn't sound good.

How can I mute in a way that doesn't create this harmonic?

[Low E Louie]

You only get harmonics at certain spots on the string. I play on the strings on or near the pickup that is closer to the neck. My bass has two pickups. Do you play over a pickup and you get these harmonics?

But... I think you have to land your finger firmer on the string to mute it better if you are going to follow this method.

[sync00]

I'm playing over the neck pickup.

I tried pressing the string firmer but I guess I need to work on that some more.

[sync00]

Originally Posted by Low E Louie

I think you have to land your finger firmer on the string to mute it better if you are going to follow this method .

Is there another method to consider?

[Low E Louie]

Yes, you can also lift the finger on your fretting hand slightly, or maybe it's best to combine the two. I really don't have the problem of creating harmonics you speak of. Try putting the fleshy part of your finger tip to the string

[Skeletomania]

I found the tip the book is talking about. It's mentioning about the plucking hand, not so much as the fretting hand.Try gently laying 1 or more fingers onto the string you want to mute.