Gear Suggestions - Compressor?

[Lazy1]

Hey guys, I'm new to the effects scene, been just running through my amp, which has been okay for the most part, but I've noticed a few things that are starting to bug me more and more:

-when slapping, the A string sounds pretty much none existant.
-I'm getting different volumes/tones out of different strings, E/A strings boomy, D/G sound lower, weak.
-overall volume and tone sometimes is boomy.

I've been thinking a compressor would help solve these problems. I've got some extra space in my rack, so I was thinking of picking up a DBX160a, or something similar. Nice and basic, a good start. But, I'd also like to be able to switch on the fly between finger tone and slap. So I've also thought that maybe it would be good to go with a pedal, like say a boss ME-50B or a GT10 B, which already have compressors in it, and then I could switch from a compressed fingerstyle to a compressed slap style. On top of that it would be nice to have some chorus and flanger for the odd occasion.

So, would putting a compressor in my rack, and going with some type of pedal, or mutlipe pedals to switch tones/use effects be a reasonable way to go? Do some people do this?

Or, would it be easier to just get a decent effects pedal that has everything in one, and forego the extra connections.


Thanks,

 

[bongomania]

Sounds like your bass needs a pro setup, honestly. Maybe a different set of strings. Those two things are the cure for most cases of uneven string volume and uneven tone. In some cases the pickups may also be the culprit.

A compressor will work, but I always recommend solving the source of a problem rather than trying to fix the symptoms.

Rack compressors are really for people who want to have one setting all the time. Some rack units have two channels that can be run in series, and have individual on/off buttons per channel, allowing you to switch between them by walking up to the rack and pushing buttons with your finger, but most people find that inconvenient.

The multi-fx units are a good way to start out with effects, so you can experiment and figure out what works for you. Generally speaking the compressors in them range between sucky and "acceptable", not great.

 

[mcnach]

A compressor may help some, but the problem you describe should not be there in the first place, certainly not so badly.
I suggest fixing the source, your bass, before trying to use technology. Have a look also at your technique.

When I started out I suffered a bit of what you are saying. I used a Boss Limiter pedal with a degree of success. But my problem was mostly how I played and my own inconsistencies. I no longer use that pedal, and I use the compression in my amp, but not to cover my technique. Not saying this is also your case, but if you think it may be, you will gain a lot more by taking a couple of lessons and practicing to improve your playing.