Trying to always get a clear sound?

[SyndeyBlah]

So, I'm still trying to get used to playing bass. I still fail to know many musical terms, so I much first say that when I say get a "clear" sound, I don't mean that there's anything wrong with the amp. If that's what anyone thinks. I mean, and this applies to all strings, when I try to use my index and middle fingers in the right hand, they make different noises. It's hard to explain, but I guess I think the middle finger sounds quieter, and different at the same time. It's more of like a, I don't know, kind of thumping noise? I'm not quite sure how to explain this. I'm guessing this partially has to do with having less strength in the middle finger like I've read in a few places is often the case, but I'd like to get more opinions on this particular issue. If anyone has any questions on what I mean, please feel free to ask. Sorry if this is kinda hard to understand.

I've asked questions on here before, and I just wanted to say thank you so much for answering them in such a nice way (as in, not saying anything about how dumb I sound, or whatever).

Thanks again!

[dmrogers]

I understand what you are saying (I think). Are you trying to say that one finger doesn't have the same dynamic as the other?

I use alternating fingers on the right hand to pick (index and middle). Although I try to make an effort to use the same pressure, it seems the middle finger does not have the same control as the index.

I notice it mostly on up tempo songs that are real busy. I even catch myself using only the index finger. I think it is just something you have to work on.

Like I said, I don't have this trouble all the time, just on certain songs.

Just keep working on it.

[tangentmusic]

Less callous build up on middle finger?

[Marty Forrer]

Practice, practice , practice. Then when you think you are getting the hang of it.... practice some more.

[powellmacaque]

If you're getting more thump with one finger, are you using a more meaty part of the finger? For instance, are you using the bony part of your index and the meaty part of your middle finger? Thats how I change from "thumpy" to a more defined sound... Try using more of the end of your finger.

[SyndeyBlah]

To dmrogers:

Yes, that's basically what I mean, I think anyways. Haha. Thank you.

It just seems like, no matter how hard I hit the string with my middle finger, it never gets the same, more (in my opinion) bass-like sound that my index does. It gets rather a very, very light thumping noise. It just doesn't sound right.

[coffin blurt]

and then it's kinda a mix of muscle memory and subconcious effort

[masterFlash]

Also if your nails aren't really closely trimmed they can catch the string, you might not even feel it. The result is more of a brighter, picked sound.

[MNAirHead]

Have you had a pro $$$$ setup done on your bass?

[cassanova]

I took the advice of John Patitucci from one of his instructional vids that I bought many years ago. He advised buying a drum rudiment book and then practicing the rudiments with your index and middle fingers. This made a world of difference in my control and overall right hand technique.

[gscroggin]

Originally Posted by cassanova

I took the advice of John Patitucci from one of his instructional vids that I bought many years ago. He advised buying a drum rudiment book and then practicing the rudiments with your index and middle fingers. This made a world of difference in my control and overall right hand technique.

+1. Different resource, but same advise and results.

[dmrogers]

Originally Posted by masterFlash

Also if your nails aren't really closely trimmed they can catch the string, you might not even feel it. The result is more of a brighter, picked sound.

+1

Yeah, I was going to add: I have to keep my nails trimmed and if they get any length to them they will affect my tone.
Something you have to be very aware of.


But still, overall, it is a technique you have to practice a lot and be aware of what your fingers are doing.

Good luck.

[Tenma4]

For what it's worth, my middle finger tip is much more fleshy than is the index finger. I found by angling my hand a bit away from the bridge I get to a tougher edge point in my middle finger, near the corner of the nail, which makes it behave very similarly to the index. It also puts my wrist at a more relaxed angle. The middle finger is curled slightly. For faster passages it's easier for me to use a 3 finger technique, similar to Billy Sheehan.

Everyone is built a little differently, but you can always play around with your hand angle, provided you're using technique that isn't going to cause you harm.

[over_the_moon]

Originally Posted by cassanova

I took the advice of John Patitucci from one of his instructional vids that I bought many years ago. He advised buying a drum rudiment book and then practicing the rudiments with your index and middle fingers. This made a world of difference in my control and overall right hand technique.

Can you elaborate? Do you emulate the left and right-hand stick with the index and middle fingers of your right hand? I'm intrigued...

[M0ses]

Try just practicing by using only your middle finger. Eventually you will re-learn so that it acts how you like it, then you can begin alternating fingers again.

[cassanova]

Originally Posted by over_the_moon

Can you elaborate? Do you emulate the left and right-hand stick with the index and middle fingers of your right hand? I'm intrigued...

Yes, just like that. The middle finger of your right hand represents one stick, your index finger another.

For example, if you do a 5 stroke roll, you'd do it index/index, middle/middle, index. If you start on your middle finger then adjust the pattern(s) accordingly. I usually associate my middle finger with the right hand sticking pattern.


Another benefit I found that came along with this was, it helped me to better communicate both verbally and musically with drummers.

[over_the_moon]

Ah, OK. Interesting. I'll give that a try. Thanks!