theory ramblings of a recording engineer

ljzimmer · #1 10-16-2009, 02:50 PM

So I've been thinking about my rig (nonexistent as of now but would like to build one soon). I just purchased an x3 live and absolutely love the flexibility of the thing. My dilemma is will I loose the versatility and flexibility of the x3's modeling and effects if I were to run a standard amp, cab, or rack setup?

I'm starting to lean towards a more PAish kind of "flat" system that could easily reproduce all of the details of the modeling and tones that the x3 creates. Am I completely out of my mind, or should I take my x3 and bass up to chucks and start listening to as many amps as possible? I think I have seen a DVD of Dave Matthews bass player in front of a "small" Meyer PA. If I remember correctly the guy was playing through an MSL 2 (15 and a 2 inch compression driver) and a 650 (double 18).

I'm curious what other Bass playing x3 users do, as well as the thoughts of the folks at Line 6.

Thanks everyone!

Loren

scotch · #2 10-30-2009, 08:57 PM

Well, I don't really use my X3 at shows (bean version)- but, I will say that a properly tuned/matched pa or monitor system can sound pretty incredible on stage! Clair Bros. 12" monitors have one of the best bass reproductions that I've heard (in a floor wedge format). Meyer Sound is a close second!

There's definitely some merit in going down a Line6+quality monitor system setup. Although, you'll almost certainly end up spending more to sound great than going with a traditional high-quality amp/cab setup.

cybersnyder · #3 10-30-2009, 09:58 PM

I like the Acme B2 for this purpose. I keep the cabinet modeling on and the Acme has a very flat response, so I'm pleased with the results.

IntrepidCellist · #4 11-07-2009, 02:38 AM

FOH sound on PODs and modelers is usually fantastic. It may not 'feel' like the real thing, but you'll get plenty of great audience feedback.

FRFR (Full-Range Flat Response) gear for modelers is the way to go if you don't feel like mucking about with colored power amps and fiddling too much with cab sims.

ljzimmer · #5 11-08-2009, 05:23 PM

Thanks guys...I appreciate the info. I actually got to mix today with a bass player playing through the X3 live and now have a little better idea how I want to proceed. A little background: I'm currently building a bass that is going to be very close to what I wanted (in terms of sound). My goal eventually is to build an entire rig (minus the x3), bass to cab. So now I have a better idea of what to aim for.

Hyper-sloth · #6 12-23-2009, 12:02 PM

I may be a tad late to comment here, but I hear a world of difference after I by-passed my Markbass LMII's pre-amp. I was killing my tone by using the PODxt live, a sansamp VT and the Markbass's pre plus other a sorted stomps. After trying the power amp only and no other effects other than the POD I have decided to buy a decent power am buy Mackie or Crown. I do have some full range speakers so I am partly there. Good luck on your build.