Double Bass Best rig?

[Bruce Calin]

I played a gig last night that gave a rare chance to really hear what my current rig sounds like: outdoors in a fairly small space, duo with guitar only, not loud or distracting background noise. I have to say I was very happy with it and believe that based on these circumstances it's the best setup I've ever used. The capper is that it's mostly old and/or inexpensive(cheap) parts- Vic's model B, RedEye, old Fishman platinum pro for the HPF, TC Electronics BQ500, and old Acme B-1 cab. It sounded like I want it to sound while being simple and functional. I've tried many(many!) different setups over the years and this sounds better than any of them. I've had quite a few favorable comments from bandmates and audience members about this rig but this is possibly the first time I've really been able to evaluate it myself in a performing situation. The RedEye is the only thing that is anywhere near new and isn't expensive, especially considering the improvement it makes. I hope to keep using this rig for a long time.

 

[james condino]

A Vic's model B + a redye + an ACME B1 is a fantastic foundation. I use the same setup almost every day. For lower volume gigs, I'll also use my 1966 Ampeg B12 head with the B1.

 

[Jeff Kissell]

I’ve had a few similar experiences lately, Yamahiko + tube buffer + Mesa Boogie Subway D-350 + Acme B1. Light, responsive, surprisingly loud but sounds sublime at all the volumes.

 

[Ric Vice]

I have been very fortunate to have found a GR AT Cube Acoustic a year ago. Easy to carry, EQ’s very suited to Double Bass. Still using the RedEye
and a Ehrlund EAP( The Ehrlund requires a preamp and the RedEye is a “match” for this pickup.

 

[Bruce Calin]

I played a gig last night that gave a rare chance to really hear what my current rig sounds like: outdoors in a fairly small space, duo with guitar only, not loud or distracting background noise. I have to say I was very happy with it and believe that based on these circumstances it's the best setup I've ever used. The capper is that it's mostly old and/or inexpensive(cheap) parts- Vic's model B, RedEye, old Fishman platinum pro for tivenhe HPF, TC Electronics BQ500, and old Acme B-1 cab. It sounded like I want it to sound while being simple and functional. I've tried many(many!) different setups over the years and this sounds better than any of them. I've had quite a few favorable comments from bandmates and audience members about this rig but this is possibly the first time I've really been able to evaluate it myself in a performing situation. The RedEye is the only thing that is anywhere near new and isn't expensive, especially considering the improvement it makes. I hope to keep using this rig for a long time.

I played another gig last night with the same rig but with some differences: drums, generally much louder, still outdoors but a much bigger, louder venue and crowd. I'm still very satisfied but felt I probably couldn't push the volume too much more without having to deal with some feedback and EQ adjustments. It was also after several days of heavy rain and the bass had that waterlogged feel from the humidity, which didn't help. It was another test that I feel good about given the circumstances.

 

[bcamp]

I've been using the same rig for many years and, luckily, it's still holding up. I have an AI Clarus 2R on top of a Bergantino AE112. I use this as a stage monitor only as I sing and prefer my vocals in the monitors instead of my bass. The DI on the amp goes to the FOH. Simple and I get to control my stage volume/tone instead of trying to translate what I want to a sound technician. I also have a Bergantino HDN 212 if I need more of you know what. For additional versatility, I have 2 pickups on my bass. I use an Ehrlund EAP for smaller, quieter venues and the Revolution Solo that came on my bass for those nights where gain before feedback can become an issue. Oh yeah, the amp is on a stand so I can hear my bass through my ears instead of my ankles. Cheers!