Emulating Pick Attack - Boss GT Pro

PJaye · #1 01-07-2010, 09:27 PM

Is there a sure way to emulate the sound of pick attack through a good processor? Specifically, a pseudo-pick sound presence with a Boss GT Pro? I’m mostly a finger style player. Though I use a pick on certain tunes, I’m always more comfortable and faster without them. Adding more treble on my bass and playing near the neck helps, but it’s still not the same snap as picking.

I read a bit about expanding attack (like Steel Leather), but couldn’t find much info on the subject. Fanning my index finger across the strings only gets the sound closer to what I want when my nail moves downward on the string of course. I’ve heard mixed comments on this subject, so more insight is appreciated.

Poor Tom · #2 01-07-2010, 09:30 PM

I would suggest you take the time to practice more with a pick if that is the sound you like best. Given time, using a pick should be just as comfortable and maybe even faster than using your fingers.

Kromwarp · #3 01-07-2010, 09:34 PM

I was in the same boat at one point. I did the majority of my playing with my fingers, save a few songs on which I used a pick. But, I had always been drawn to that trebly attack and snap, so I completely switched over to using a pick. It takes a while, but you soon become comfortably playing with one. Thats probably your best bet to get a picking tone. Another alternative would be to grow your finger nails out, that way, you get the initial attack, with the follow up of your finger.

TortillaChip520 · #4 01-07-2010, 09:36 PM

If you would rather buy an effects processor than spend $2.99 on a pack of picks, then go for it...

I've never felt comfortable playing with a pick either, but use it on a few songs, and have been trying to become more proficient with it.

Poor Tom · #5 01-07-2010, 09:46 PM

I am also trying to get better at playing with a pick right now, I get a little discomfort in my forearm while picking. I wonder if it's something just to get used to or if I'm doing it wrong...

it's kinda funny to think about the fact that many people(musicians or not) might have a preconception that a bass player who uses their fingers is a more advanced or skilled player, yet here are many of us who use our fingers but aren't very good at using a pick! And to top it off, instead of us pretending that we are better than pick players, we openly admit that we want to get better with them!

How cool are we?

TortillaChip520 · #6 01-07-2010, 10:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Poor Tom

I am also trying to get better at playing with a pick right now, I get a little discomfort in my forearm while picking. I wonder if it's something just to get used to or if I'm doing it wrong...

it's kinda funny to think about the fact that many people(musicians or not) might have a preconception that a bass player who uses their fingers is a more advanced or skilled player, yet here are many of us who use our fingers but aren't very good at using a pick! And to top it off, instead of us pretending that we are better than pick players, we openly admit that we want to get better with them!

How cool are we?

using a pick makes us seem more like a guitarist, and no bass player wants that!

My thumb and wrist get tired quickly when using a pick, but i could hammer out 16ths all day with my fingers.
I think that makes us VERY cool

MIJ-VI · #7 01-07-2010, 10:36 PM

Being equally proficient with both fingers and picks adds timbral variety to one's bass hues.

Picks are good for chording and tic-tac bass.

Besides, one can always use a thumb pick...

sirpug · #8 01-07-2010, 10:45 PM

I bought a steel leather hoping to get the same thing. I didn't work. The expanding attack is GREAT for slap but it won't give you what you're looking for. I had to just buck up and accept the fact that if I want the pick attack sound, I have to practice picking more.