Dynamic Question

[thehuntsbass]

I have a question regarding dynamics when recording the bass guitar. I am using a Gibson Thunderbird, Ampeg SVT CL Ampeg 8x10 miked with a Beta 52, and also running a DI sans amp Tech 21 to a separate channel. I am running everything into pro tools via a Digi 003. My issue is with the Tech 21 I am not quite getting the true tube sound I want, but with the mike on the cab I am getting peaks in volumes at certain frequencies. Would you suggest using a compressor, and if so what is a good choice? Also is there another alternative and will it or the compressor color my tube sound? I have researched for a while and haven't been able to come up with a solution. I am new to recording, and have searched some recording/engineer forums and haven't been able to come up with anything so far. Thank you for your time and help in advance.

VR,
Bryan

 

[dmilt23451]

If by peaks you mean you are clipping your input, then I would say you should lower your preamp levels, and eq with in PT to taste.

Or try a mic with a flatter frequency response ( [Invalid or Expired Link Removed] )

Also you may want to try the lower preamp, combined with a dry DI signal ie. not the sansamp.

 

[bongomania]

I would not apply "just any" compressor to your track, as it is nearly impossible to "un-compress" it again if you wanted to change the type/amount/flavor of compression later in the mixdown. The best solution, as dmilt says, is just to lower the input levels on the recorder's input stage. Sometimes this can result in a bit more noise relative to the signal once you've got the tracks all brought up to level in the the mix, but not always, and not if you've got a quiet recording environment. If turning down the input doesn't get good results, then consider a limiter, which is a compressor with a very high ratio, usually set so that it only caps off the peaks without compressing the majority of your signal. There are a few different options; my favorite for transparency is the Aphex 651 or 661, and there are also plugin limiters you can try, some of them apparently do a good job.

 

[thehuntsbass]

Thanks so much for all the help! I will take a futher look into things and let you guys now how it all works out. Thanks again

 

[dmilt23451]

I would add to what bongo said by saying that if you cant lessen your levels, you wont be able to use a limiter plug in because you will still be clipping the A/D conversion. So if you have an outboard compressor to use try that, it doesn't have to have a "limiter" on it as long as you can make the ratio 30:1 or greater.