• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Bass comfort and long gigs

redshot

redshot

Nov 8, 2010
105
66
Würzburg, DE / Porto, PT
#1
After 5 years of being a light tech for a band, I've been asked to fill the bass player's position. The ultimate upgrade :p

My issue: that band's concerts usually last 3.5 to 4 hours without intermission (yes), so I have a decision to make, which bass to choose? The 6 string Yamaha, heavy but amazing sound, or the 5 string Ibanez, light but not-so-good-but-still-okay sound?

In other words: Would you sacrifice your physical comfort for an amazing sound, specially during those long gigs?
 
#6
smogg said:
Long term physical discomfort inevitably leads to injury. Make sure you invest in a quality wide padded strap. A must have for long gigs.
Click to expand...

I do have a wide one, but not very comfortable after a couple hours playing, so a better one is in order :)

Phalex said:
Don't be a girl. Play the bass and have fun.

(Sorry, but I just don't get the whole "My bass is too heavy" thing.)
Click to expand...

:hiding:.........:bassist:
 
#8
Phalex said:
Don't be a girl. Play the bass and have fun.

(Sorry, but I just don't get the whole "My bass is too heavy" thing.)
Click to expand...

IME it's more about weight distribution and good balance. A neck diver on a too narrow strap becomes uncomfortable very quickly and makes for a long night regardless of actual weight. (with in reason of course)
 
#11
Who plays for 3.5-4 hrs non-stop? Dude I'd stay on being the tech, or find another group to play bass. This sounds like torture :-)
 
#13
Phalex said:
Don't be a girl. Play the bass and have fun.

(Sorry, but I just don't get the whole "My bass is too heavy" thing.)
Click to expand...

I totally get it...My back "kills" me some nights just doing one hour sets with breaks. I can't imagine doing a 3 1/2 to 4 hour show with no break or chance to sit for a few minutes...

Believe me...standing up there trying to put on a happy face when you are about to drop to your knees because of excruciating back pain "ain't fun"...
 
#14
+1 on weight distribution! Make sure whatever bass your using, that the weight is not pulling to the neck side too much.
Try adjusting how high or low your wearing the bass. This can make a big difference on your back, and on your wrists.
Don't be a tree! Move around. This will keep the weight from pulling down on the same area all night.
Have fun! Don't focus on your back all night. If your having a good time grooving with the band, you won't think about the discomfort as much. Kind of mind over matter if you will.
Sit on a stool if you need to and it's appropriate for the situation.
Get them to play shorter sets! Four hours on stage is ludicrous! Breaks are a good thing for you AND your audience. How you gonna hit on chicks if your on stage all night? ;)

My .02¢,
Johno!
.
 
#17
redshot said:
After 5 years of being a light tech for a band, I've been asked to fill the bass player's position. The ultimate upgrade :p

My issue: that band's concerts usually last 3.5 to 4 hours without intermission (yes), so I have a decision to make, which bass to choose? The 6 string Yamaha, heavy but amazing sound, or the 5 string Ibanez, light but not-so-good-but-still-okay sound?

In other words: Would you sacrifice your physical comfort for an amazing sound, specially during those long gigs?
Click to expand...

Not sure which Ibanez, but I had an SR505 that was so light, I almost weighed less while I was holding it. well, you get my point.
Personally, I find it sooo much nicer having a light bass on a long gig.
 
#18
lightest basses i've played were a vintage gibson grabber, 84 squier jazz, and a vintage vox clubman
not sure if i have ever played for more than 90 min at a show, but the 83 L2K seem pretty heavy during the last couple of songs and i'm about 6'4" and 190
 
#20
If you really prefer the Yamaha, try it once and see how it goes. Bring the lighter bass along in case you need to switch.

Don't let anyone else convince you to do something that causes you physical pain or even injury. For me, if the heavier bass only make you "uncomfortable," then by all means go for the tone. But if it is going to cause neck or shoulder problems that could stick with you, then no tonal difference is worth it.

Some folks can play basses as heavy as they want and not have issues, which is great for them... but that doesn't mean their advice is good for you. Take that from someone who has had to avoid playing for periods of time due to neck and shoulder problems.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back