Fretless Frenzy!

[bearclaw]

Hi Steve,

In your opinion, can a non graphite neck sound as plush as a graphite? I do realize it's a matter of personal opinion, but my Ibanez SR400 series bass feels so nice and has a fast neck! The only problem is that it isn't quite as sweet sounding as a Modulus or Zon bass. I suppose when it comes down to it, its all in the hands to a certain extent. What can I do to add some life to my fretless tone? Any particular pedals you would recommend using? Cheers,

Joe B.

[embellisher]

The composite neck has something to do with the sound but so does the pickups and preamps.

Most Zons have Bartolinis, a few have EMGs, and most Modulus basses have EMGs or Barts as well, except for the few with Lane Poors.

A good preamp and new pickups won't make you Ibanez sound like a Zon or Modulus, but it will make a big improvement in the overall tone.

[Steve Lawson]

The two biggest factors in fretless tone by far are set up and technique. I can make a fretless P-bass sound like me given 20 minutes with an allen key and truss rod adjuster. :o)

That said, EQ can play a part, and it's worth experimenting with boosting low mids to make it growl it bit, and high end to bring out sparkle...

experiment and have fun

steve
www.steve-lawson.co.uk

[CJY]

i recommend the sansamp acoustic DI.I have a Yamaha BBN4F w/coated fingerboard and nickel roundwounds strings.The sansamp thickens the sound.u have to experiment with the mid frequency though.with the right setting, u can turn a purr into a growl.but i dont know how it sounds like with a fretless with active electronics