Double Bass EQing old recordings

[Fletcher Lanning]

So I've come to a bit of a rough patch in my growth as a player and I've decided to spend a lot more time listening and a lot less time intellectualizing the music. To that end, I've been listening to the Miles Davis Prestige Sessions (Workin', Relaxin', etc.) with Paul Chambers. I figured many of you have been listening to recordings from the 50's longer than I and I was wondering if there were any good EQ tricks to make the basslines a little more audible when listening.

 

[stefaniw80401]

It's always better to cut, than boost. So I'd say, try cutting the high freqs down (i.e. low-pass). Something like -4db on everything above say 250Hz

Good luck.
- Mark

 

[SAlcott]

PC comes through loud and clear on my not expensive system-try headphones.

 

[moles]

It's always better to cut, than boost.

Not sure that I agree with this sentiment, in a situation like this. Without starting a major derail, allow me to suggest that if the bass occupies a nice little pocket of frequencies in a recording, there's nothing wrong with just boosting that area to bring it out. As I understand it, the OP simply wants to hear what is being played more easily, and is not really concerned with preserving audiophile quality.

Also try listening at lower volumes (this is counter-intuitive sometimes, but can really help) or even leaving the room. I don't mean to take a break, but leave the recording playing and go "next door" (the kitchen, hallway, or wherever that may be) and take a listen.

 

[stefaniw80401]

Not sure that I agree with this sentiment, in a situation like this. [...] try listening at lower volumes (this is counter-intuitive sometimes, but can really help) or even leaving the room [... like] the kitchen, hallway, or wherever that may be and take a listen.

Well, I think you indirectly agreed with me, because leaving the room is analagous to cutting the highs. Listening at lower volumes is similar.

Regardless of approach, the OP will get some improved hearing. If you boost, try boosting a tad between 80Hz - 200Hz.