Slap tone volume

kuma9 · #1 12-10-2009, 07:52 AM

When I'm playing finger style my volume is fine, but when I change to slapping my volume is lower. I could turn up before I start slapping but when I change back to finger style I'll be too loud. How do I fix this? Are you guys using pedals that boost, compressers or what?

**Bryan R. Tyler** · #2 12-10-2009, 08:04 AM

I'll move this to Technique- if you do a title search with the words "slap" and "volume," you'll find several other threads on the topic.

Absentia · #3 12-10-2009, 08:11 AM

I used to have the same problem when I first started slapping,
The problem was solved on it's own through practice (building up muscles) and through learning not to cut my mids on the amp.
Now I'm louder slapping than plucking though it seems like I hit my bass like a red headed step child.

A compressor would probably help but I know alot of people look down on them as a crutch.

You can also try experimenting with your angle of attack, try a thumbs up, parallel or thumbs down approach (there no wrong way). Another possible solution is adjusting your pickup height and where exactly you slap on the string (bridge, pickup, fingerboard).

kuma9 · #4 12-10-2009, 09:20 AM

Thanks guys for your response.

kuma9 · #5 12-10-2009, 09:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bryan R. Tyler

I'll move this to Technique- if you do a title search with the words "slap" and "volume," you'll find several other threads on the topic.

Sorry for posting in the wrong location.

Rickett Customs · #6 12-10-2009, 09:32 AM

I use the programmable sansamp, that has 3 channels. 1 for slap, that boosts the lows and presence (it also scoops the mids somewhat, when you raise the highs or lows, as there is no mid control), 2 for regular (barely driven, lows and highs flat) and 3 for slightly overdriven (lows flat, added highs). Don't need to touch the controls on the head, very handy during a gig.

kr0n · #7 12-10-2009, 09:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Absentia

A compressor would probably help but I know alot of people look down on them as a crutch.

Practicing with one is equivalent to lying to yourself. Performing with one is for the audience. They paid for listening good live music and you're there to provide it and increasing the chances of a perfect performance is only smart.

Only the snob ones will complain about it.

kuma9 · #8 12-10-2009, 11:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kr0n

Practicing with one is equivalent to lying to yourself. Performing with one is for the audience. They paid for listening good live music and you're there to provide it and increasing the chances of a perfect performance is only smart.

Only the snob ones will complain about it.

Good point. I do have one on my amp. I'll try it out tonight.