I bought the Big Bang and I really like it, but I can't slap and pop w/o clipping. Then I noticed there was no compression feature. So, I'm having to buy one specifically for this amp. Kinda sucks because I don't have any rack space for it. Any work around for this?
Enjoy the benefits of a premium membership!
Upgrade Account
-
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.
Markbass, No Onboard Compressor??
- Thread starter Trepanist
- Start date
We'll I'm in no way being rude, but if your having clipping issues when you slap and need a compressor to do so I think your technique isn't right. You shouldn't need a compressor to slap nor have to do it hard enough to make the amp clip.
in addition to these suggestions there are plenty of decent pedal comps if you want to avoid a rack
Check out Bongo's comp review page - absurd amount of info and reviews..once I get back to my laptop I will add a link to it if nobody beats me to it
Check out Bongo's comp review page - absurd amount of info and reviews..once I get back to my laptop I will add a link to it if nobody beats me to it
No need for a compressor. Sounds like a combination of user error (input gain too high... just set the input gain to just below the level where the clip light comes on at your hardest hits), and possibly some technique issues (your slap style should not be 'louder' than your fingerstyle volume).
I slapped and popped for years with my LMII, with absolutely no clipping issues, even at high volume gigs with no front of house (to be fair, I had a relatively high sensitivity 410(4ohms).
I slapped and popped for years with my LMII, with absolutely no clipping issues, even at high volume gigs with no front of house (to be fair, I had a relatively high sensitivity 410(4ohms).
What amp were you using before? The Markbass amps are quite clean and clear, and less forgiving to dynamics and technique than some other amps. You many have gotten used to playing a certain way with the previous amp, so I think you may need to work on your technique a little to make it work with this amp.
Other than buying a compressor pedal or rack unit (with larger rack!), you might want to look at your bass' setup, in particular string height. It may be that you having to slap the string harder than necessary to make contact with the neck. Lowering the action can help rectify this.
Other than buying a compressor pedal or rack unit (with larger rack!), you might want to look at your bass' setup, in particular string height. It may be that you having to slap the string harder than necessary to make contact with the neck. Lowering the action can help rectify this.
I have the BB and I have never had a clipping problem. I am not a slapper but I am more of an aggressive player. I would have to double check but I don't think I have the gain past 12. I know the master fluctuates between 9 and 10. We always have PA support so there is never a need to be any louder. I would agree with the thought that the gain might need to be adjusted down.
BurningSkies
CRAZY BALDHEAD
- Feb 20, 2005
- 27,956
- 20,350
- Disclosures
- Endorsing artist: Dingwall Guitars
Generally speaking most amp heads' on board compressors mostly suck. They don't give enough control over the compression by way of the necessary controls. If you really need one to smooth out your technique, your sound will be way better off with an 'outboard' compressor that has more than one or two knobs.
