Bass/iPod practice/learning tool?

velvetphil · #1 02-28-2009, 08:42 AM

Hey guys,

So here's my dilemma: I want a device that allows me to plug my bass directly into my iPod. Reasons? Well, I want to warm up/practice riffs before shows, as well as learn parts off MP3's on my iPod, since I'm always playing with new artists.

Basically it's gotta be battery-powered, doesn't have to sound amazing, and it's gotta be portable and iPod-based-in other words, I don't want to have to carry around a mini-mixer, 1/8" stereo cable, etc...

I saw this thing: http://theappleblog.com/2005/04/21/j...on-iyour-ipod/, but it looks like the company went out of business. Too bad; that's exactly what I was looking for. Alesis has a new product coming out called the JamDock; unfortunately it's not battery-powered. Maybe not a deal-breaker but not ideal...

Any ideas?

Thanks guys!

Phil

mimaz · #2 02-28-2009, 08:51 AM

I use a Tascam Bass Trainer to play along with my iPod. I just plug the headphone out of the iPod to the line in on the bass trainer. It gets the job done, but leaves a lot to be desired in terms of portability, simplicity, etc.

I'm anxious to see a better solution also!

WRBass · #3 02-28-2009, 08:57 AM

I think you want something like this:

http://www.musicgoround-cary.com/servlet/Detail?no=570

velvetphil · #4 02-28-2009, 08:59 AM

This Tascam unit http://www.tascam.com/products/mp-bt1.html looks promising, but I've heard mixed reviews - also, I'd prefer to keep it iPod-based, and not have to buy a whole new MP3 player...

velvetphil · #5 02-28-2009, 09:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WRBass

I think you want something like this:

http://www.musicgoround-cary.com/servlet/Detail?no=570

Yeah, I had one of those for a while - the problem was the same: it was an iPod plus a separate unit that had to be connected with a cable, etc. Not ideal...

I can feel myself getting really fussy about this!

mimaz · #6 02-28-2009, 09:03 AM

So far, the Alesis unit looks like one of the better solutions, as it is iPod based and doesn't involve connecting with a cable......I can live with using AC power, I would always kill the batteries anyway.

BUT....will it work with the 3G iPhone? That's what I'm using most often now, as I always have it with me. My 80G iPod video rides around in my laptop bag alot now, rarely being used.

JDeewond · #7 02-28-2009, 09:05 AM

Here's what a lot of people I know have been using, http://bass-guitars.musiciansfriend....Amp?sku=180252 . The company that makes these was bought off some time ago though and they just can't rivalize with what the company was offering before so I'd recommend finding an 80's model at a pawn shop or something. Hope it helps!

Ampeg SVT · #8 02-28-2009, 09:07 AM

Vox Amplug.

velvetphil · #9 02-28-2009, 09:09 AM

The Rockman is a great unit, and I used that one for a while as well...but still not exactly what I'm looking for. The Tascam unit is actually looking pretty good, the more I read the manual. And 139.00 on eBay? Maybe it's worth it...

Keep those suggestions coming!

Jedi Of Syrinx · #10 02-28-2009, 09:48 AM

Well I'm not quite sure what you mean, but I know I use my iPod for practice as well... What I do is put my earphones in, then put headphones over the top, so i can hear my bass as well as the MP3. If I get the volume levels right, it'll sound like I'm playing the bassline!

velvetphil · #11 02-28-2009, 10:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jedi Of Syrinx

Well I'm not quite sure what you mean, but I know I use my iPod for practice as well... What I do is put my earphones in, then put headphones over the top, so i can hear my bass as well as the MP3. If I get the volume levels right, it'll sound like I'm playing the bassline!

Hmmm...actually a great idea!

Jedi Of Syrinx · #12 02-28-2009, 10:12 AM

Thank you! Alternatively if you fancy annoying the neighbours/wife/kids/girlfriend/anyone in the area (delete as appropriate) then do away with the headphones and crank your amp up!

walknbluez · #13 03-01-2009, 12:16 PM

I use the Korg Pandora

bassalo · #14 03-02-2009, 07:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by walknbluez

I use the Korg Pandora

+1
http://playbassnow.com/recording-videos/

b_jamin41311 · #15 03-09-2009, 03:57 AM

I have that tascam one but it distorts the bass sound too much,i just plug into my multifx(battery powered)run Big cans from that and sit them over the top of my ipod plugs,works fine.

ProffesB · #16 03-09-2009, 04:08 AM

I forget the exact name but i have a vox headphone amp that takes a small headphone jack. I made a ipod holder out of duct tape and use it when I am out to sea.

Cameronj · #17 03-09-2009, 10:10 AM

I have the tascam. No bass distortion from my end. Are you sure your output device can handle the bass? I am using mine with both and active pre and passive p-bass pickups with no distortion.

Just wondering