Double Bass Mixing magnetic pickup with a condenser

[Kristian]

Yo Krisitan
What about that new Magnetic pickup you were talking about....is it out?

Hi Flatback!
No, it’s not out yet. We’re still trying different models. I have a single coil version right now but we’ll make a hum bucker version as well. I’ve used mine on a few rehearsals and it’s so easy; just set a nice, fat sound with the magnetic pickup and then turn up the mic a bit to get some air.

 

[bherman]

Following this thread with interest. The challenge for me has been finding a decent sound with my Eminence EUB. I am happy with the strings - Pirastro Perpetual solos - but not so much with the pickup. I tried the Krivo by itself and wasn't warm enough for me. Lately using a Realist Lifeline and its ok but not great. So am intrigued by the Krivo with a mike combo. My question for those on this thread is what is a decent but not overly expensive mic to mix with the Krivo? Assuming that I'm using a 2 channel preamp with phantom power, what would you use?

 

[Ric Vice]

Following this thread with interest. The challenge for me has been finding a decent sound with my Eminence EUB. I am happy with the strings - Pirastro Perpetual solos - but not so much with the pickup. I tried the Krivo by itself and wasn't warm enough for me. Lately using a Realist Lifeline and its ok but not great. So am intrigued by the Krivo with a mike combo. My question for those on this thread is what is a decent but not overly expensive mic to mix with the Krivo? Assuming that I'm using a 2 channel preamp with phantom power, what would you use?

Since the Eminence actually has a real bass bar, sound post, and bridge, I’d try using a pickup that senses the top. I seem to remember that one TB member used the Ischell contact mic with decent results. I used a Ehrlund EAP with my Kolstine Busetto Travel Bass with great results. Unfortunately, the EAP is expensive. The Ischell is far less expensive. You’d have to borrow one first to see if it worked for you. I used a magnetic PU circa 1979-80. At the time it was great, once the Underwood came out I ditched it.

 

[bherman]

Since the Eminence actually has a real bass bar, sound post, and bridge, I’d try using a pickup that senses the top. I seem to remember that one TB member used the Ischell contact mic with decent results. I used a Ehrlund EAP with my Kolstine Busetto Travel Bass with great results. Unfortunately, the EAP is expensive. The Ischell is far less expensive. You’d have to borrow one first to see if it worked for you. I used a magnetic PU circa 1979-80. At the time it was great, once the Underwood came out I ditched it.

Thanks Ric, I dont think borrowing one to try is an option given where I live (Western Colorado).I'll keep digging for more info....

 

[Kristian]

Following this thread with interest. The challenge for me has been finding a decent sound with my Eminence EUB. I am happy with the strings - Pirastro Perpetual solos - but not so much with the pickup. I tried the Krivo by itself and wasn't warm enough for me. Lately using a Realist Lifeline and its ok but not great. So am intrigued by the Krivo with a mike combo. My question for those on this thread is what is a decent but not overly expensive mic to mix with the Krivo? Assuming that I'm using a 2 channel preamp with phantom power, what would you use?

I’m using a Rode nt5 with quite good result.
It’s quite affordable.

 

[bherman]

I’m using a Rode nt5 with quite good result.
It’s quite affordable.

thanks for the suggestion. They're about $200 USD here, how are you mounting yours on the bass?

 

[Kristian]

thanks for the suggestion. They're about $200 USD here, how are you mounting yours on the bass?

Some times with a “bass on stage” but mostly just with some rubber bands close to the treble foot of the bridge.

 

[Jeff Kissell]

Update...
I decided not to keep the Krivo, I like the sound but not the form factor. For whatever reason I was really not digging that much bulk at the end of the fingerboard. I'm happy with the Perpetuals and am going to fine tune the bridge wing pickup option with EQ and amplification. The mic is on the back burner for now.

 

[bassically_eli]

I remember reading several years ago that Bridget Kearney uses a magnetic pickup to run through some her FX pedals. I can't quite remember what other pickup(s) or mic(s) she was using, but I believe she was blending the magnetic at least part of the time. Man, I wish I could find that interview rn! I'll post it if I do.