Picking while standing

[kanti]

I just have a quick question: what is the proper way to pic bass while standing? I have just started experimenting with a pic and while standing I can't get a good sound because the pic hits the string at an angle, making too much of a scratching sound. Do you have to play with your bass up high like a guitar, or is there a different technique from sitting that allows good tone while standing?

[Gogmagog]

I don't think you have to play low or high to get good results with picking; it just depends on what is comfortable for you. Don't discount the scratching sound you're currently getting; it's things like that that can add color and uniqueness to your sound. If it's totally undesirable for you, you could always cut back the tone.

[The Golden Boy]

How do you hold your pick? I have the Eddie VanHalen 2 fingers and a thumb grip. I sling the thing relatively low, not Dee Dee low, but not chin dwellin' either. The other thing is make sure your pick isn't worn down. Use a fresh pick, and if noise is the concern, try a nylon pick.

Good Luck!

[natrab]

I prefer to pick at an angle. It gives a nice sound rather than really straight picking. Sounds great for doublepicking.

Find what's comfortable and run with it.

[John Deppel]

I wear my bass where my hands naturally hang...that way, when I pick, I just use a straight up and down motion...makes it a little easier to double-pick, at least for me...

[Stingraymund]

Most bassists who pick sling their basses low - as in the body of the bass is located below your waist.

Actually in most cases how you sling your bass indicates what type of music you play:

up high : bass body covers chest, stomach area = R&B/funk

down low : bass body covers crotch, hips area = rock/punk/metal

somewhere in between: jazz

[BassGod]

I keep my bass super-low, and I play with my fingers, pick, and some slap/pop. Like Gogmagog said, that scratchy noise can be good. Eliminating some of the tone does help, and I do that when scratching makes the song sound bad.