Octaver question

[Blaktop]

Hi, I'm relatively new to bass. I play a Marcus Miller P7 through a Fender Rumble 200 plus a 210 cab. My guitar player has a tendency to want to do songs (we're a cover band) in different keys to the original and in some songs that requires me to play up to 7 steps higher which leaves the bass sounding thin compared to the original bass line. Will an octave pedal running one octave down fill the sound out.....or should I just buy a 5 string and be done with it.

If an octave pedal will do it, which one? I don't need any fancy tech sounds.....just want to add a bit more bottom to what I'm already playing.

 

[bholder]

I like EHX octavers, the POG or POG 2 can do what you want, but are honestly overkill for just that. I think EHX makes a simple "just one octave down" box though. I know others do as well.

Edit: Yeah, the Octave Multiplexer is the smaller / cheaper one octave below only box: https://www.ehx.com/products/octave-multiplexer/

 

[Lesfunk]

An octave pedal will be much more affordable than a new 5 string bass for sure, but it will give you a synth like sound that may or may not work for your music all the time.
It won’t replace a five string bass, but on the other hand , a five string bass won’t sound like a four string with an octave pedal either.
MXR vintage bass octave is a decent one

 

[Smurf-o-Deth]

I want to mention that playing through an analog octave divider is closer to playing a different instrument than might seem apparent at first. Clean technique and single, individual notes are the keys to getting the best results from them. Digital octavers can offer many benefits in tracking (including polyphonic functionality in some offerings), but most do not have the fat, synthy sound of an analog circuit. There will be trade-offs, no matter what you choose. That being said, in the abstract, adding some sort of octave divider would (potentially) do what you are seeking.

Are you looking for a more natural sound? Synth-bass? Is polyphonic tracking something you need? You'll have to figure those sorts of elements out before your field of choices can truly be narrowed down. That being said, if you want a more natural sounding octave division and don't mind learning the quirks of playing through an analog circuit, I'd recommend the Aguilar Octamizer, since the tone can be sculpted into something quite natural sounding and cohesive.

 

[Aloe]

"7 steps higher" -- like in B instead of E? not a problem, if the guitar isn't downtuned that much, you don't really need that low B. unless you're specifically missing the low C#, D and Eb, no much reason to go lower. I do sometimes and that's when I take out my 5-string. some folks just get a D-tuner instead. if "7 steps higher" is like E instead of A, that's not a problem as well, you can use the low E on your bass.

this all said, octavers are fun (and they sound differently). but I ended up with a 5-string when I just need that low D or Eb.

 

[yodedude2]

sorry that i do not have an octaver to recommend. it's a bit off-topic, but anyway ... is it possible to tune your bass to b / e / a / d ?

 

[bignc]

sorry that i do not have an octaver to recommend. it's a bit off-topic, but anyway ... is it possible to tune your bass to b / e / a / d ?

I have both- a properly set-up BEAD tuned 4 string (in my opinion) and a standard tuned 4 string with an Aguilar Octamizer. Everyone is right- totally depends on the sound you are after or prefer. If you can borrow or go to a shop and try a good octave pedal, you can decide before spending $.

 

[bassbrad]

Welcome @Blaktop I like to suggest a multi effects as your first foray into the effects realm because they offer a great introduction and utility for gigging and practice. Something like the Zoom B1 Four has both an octaver as well as a pitch shifter and other effects you will find useful in a guitar trio, a tuner, a drum looper and will drive a pair of headphones for quiet practice and has an aux input for your phone for learning songs. Very handy.

 

[bignc]

Welcome @Blaktop I like to suggest a multi effects as your first foray into the effects realm because they offer a great introduction and utility for gigging and practice. Something like the Zoom B1 Four has both an octaver as well as a pitch shifter and other effects you will find useful in a guitar trio, a tuner, a drum looper and will drive a pair of headphones for quiet practice and has an aux input for your phone for learning songs. Very handy.

I forget that not long ago (just over a year lol,) this was what I did and it helped me decide what I liked. I did the MS-60b because it is metal and I'm tough on things. But now I have the B1 Four also and use them both.

 

[bassbrad]

I forget that not long ago (just over a year lol,) this was what I did and it helped me decide what I liked. I did the MS-60b because it is metal and I'm tough on things. But now I have the B1 Four also and use them both.

Both are good but may be hard to find depending on location, OP is in Australia so it shouldn't be too hard. The B1 four has more user features and is easier to access but the MS60B has more fun sounds.

 

[Matty Koff]

I wouldn't use an octaver as a substitute for simply wanting to go lower, personally.

I love my octave pedals but they have their limitations and will punish you if your technique is off more than a clean tone might. If there's someone local that might have a 5 string in stock go play it and see how you feel about it. The extra string will take some getting used to.. both muting it and using it. But if you push through and play it regularly, focus consciously on those aspects.. it's really a matter of months to get used to it. The question I'd ask myself while examining a 5 string for the first time is not "Does it feel awkward" because it will.. and how easily the low b will ring out if you don't mute it will catch you off guard. I would be asking myself if it filled a void where I felt like something was missing tonewise. In my own case.. the answer was yes.

I highly recommend owning an octave pedal, but for fun with the effect, not for trying to make up for the limitations of a 4 string tuned to EADG. But if you're regularly finding yourself wishing you could go lower.. that's one of the benefits of a 5 string.

a 4 tuned BEAD is an option.. I'd have missed my G string.

 

[JimmyM]

Let's just say that it can, but you shouldn't depend on it to change keys because the lower you go, the less natural it sounds. Fine for an occasional drop-down slam in the middle or end of a song, but not for making up not knowing what to do when you change keys. But I love them and use them all the time, just not for that. And for that purpose, definitely get digital.

 

[40Hz]

sorry that i do not have an octaver to recommend. it's a bit off-topic, but anyway ... is it possible to tune your bass to b / e / a / d ?

Yes. It's cleverly called BEAD tuning. You'll run into it a lot in Metal and similar genres.

 

[Blaktop]

Thanks for all the input guys. I've been madly researching YouTube and reviews. All I really want is to add a little depth when I have to transpose to a higher key to suit the guitarist. It's only for half a dozen songs.

I think I've managed to score a secondhand MXR Bass Octave Deluxe for $100 AUD, so if it works out I'll have a play with it. Also a mate has offered to lend me his Schecter 5 string so I'll try both options. If I can avoid buying another bass that would be good....but I will if I need to (G.A.S....)

 

[40Hz]

My guitar player has a tendency to want to do songs (we're a cover band) in different keys to the original and in some songs that requires me to play up to 7 steps higher which leaves the bass sounding thin compared to the original bass line.

Seven steps higher is the same thing as a note a fourth lower. Just change your fingering to accommodate the key change. Notes aren't generally position dependent on string instruments.

 

[Blaktop]

Seven steps higher is the same thing as a note a fourth lower. Just change your fingering to accommodate the key change. Notes aren't generally position dependent on string instruments.

Yup, I know what you're saying, there is just a few songs that it doesn't sound right. e.g.....Long Train Running is in G....the bass line starts on low G and does octave runs. Guitarist wants to do it in D....the octave runs lack depth and punch at the top 5th/7th fret D and G string. I'm just after adding a bit of depth is all.

I'll see how the octaver goes and play with my mate's 5 string. It's all fun....searching for the elusive "perfect sound". I played guitar in bands for 20 years ages ago and it was the same......the elusive perfect sound is always just round the corner. I'm 67 and playing in a band for the first time in 20 years....and loving it...