GarageBand as a pre-amp....

[chadhargis]

I've got an M-Audio interface that allows me to record my bass in GarageBand.

I started playing around with it and using some of the effects in GarageBand. Compression, echo, reverb, EQ, and applying various other effects to it. I run my Mac's sound into my home theater system which has two 12" subs hooked up to it.

I have to say, nothing sounds as good as my bass running though this setup. It's deep, clear, wonderful sound that I can sculpt in just about any way I want. Wanna sound like Bootsy Collins, then use the "Funk bass" effect and VIOLA! you got it. GarageBand even has a noise gate which is very cool.

Anyone else try this?

[Tenma4]

In my area I've seen several musicians doing this, including one entire band. I've thought about it, but generally what I see going against it for me is:1. I'm a PC guy. 2. I don't think I like the risk of having my laptop on stage. I'd prefer to stick to rugged-cased, dedicated music gear. 3. Someone stealing my laptop would potentially get a lot of things more important to me than a preamp or pedal.

That being said, the thought intrigues me quite a lot and I've thought of going that route for home practicing since I don't always have one set up at home. Much of my gear goes from gig to storage and back again.

[chadhargis]

Being a new player and having never played a gig, I never really thought about it in that way. Sounds great in my basement though.

[uaudio]

Check it: Anybody else going all software?