Output level

[Jeff Cooke]

I know I’ve seen this topic on here before. I switch between two basses live and there is a large difference between the output level, so I have to adjust it on my preamp pedal every time I switch. The louder bass has individual volume knobs for each pickup, so I can’t just roll those back to make it closer to my p-bass, as I adjust them often for different tones, it would get confusing. Looking for a pedal solution. Anyone?

 

[Zbysek]

Radial BigShot

BigShot i/o - Radial Engineering

 

[drpepper]

If the bass with higher output is active, check if its preamp has a trim pot inside the control cavity to adjust the output level.

(Some don't have a trim pot, some do - here's an example)

 

[Jeff Cooke]

Never knew that! I’m gonna check that tonight after work. I’ll post after I do. Thanks!!

 

[Jason Stock]

I use the Tech 21 sansamp Steve Harris pedal. Has two channels and DI and does exactly what I need to do when (if) I change basses between a lower or higher output bass.

 

[Geri O]

TC Electronics Mini-Spark.

The trim pot of an active preamp is a fine idea, but I’d rather keep the output of my active fair to midland hot and boost the output of the passive bass with the Mini-Spark.

I have the Mini-Spark on a pedal board with my tube DI and tuner. Output of my bass wireless unit hits the tuner, then the Mini-Spark, and finally the DI and passing through the DI to my amp when I use one.

Just took a look at the Radial Bigshot mentioned above. That unit probably isn’t cheap, but it looks to be a VERY cool unit. Gonna look into that one

 

[Jeff Cooke]

Radial BigShot
It
BigShot i/o - Radial Engineering

TC Electronics Mini-Spark.

The trim pot of an active preamp is a fine idea, but I’d rather keep the output of my active fair to midland hot and boost the output of the passive bass with the Mini-Spark.

I have the Mini-Spark on a pedal board with my tube DI and tuner. Output of my bass wireless unit hits the tuner, then the Mini-Spark, and finally the DI and passing through the DI to my amp when I use one.

Just took a look at the Radial Bigshot mentioned above. That unit probably isn’t cheap, but it looks to be a VERY cool unit. Gonna look into that one

I may try something like that, but I’m not sure about having two separate instrument cords with both basses always plugged in

 

[Zbysek]

I may try something like that, but I’m not sure about having two separate instrument cords with both basses always plugged in

why?

 

[rickdog]

I use an A/B switch to select one of two basses. The one that needs a little boost has a pedal in front of the switch to adjust its level. Works great for me.

 

[Geri O]

I may try something like that, but I’m not sure about having two separate instrument cords with both basses always plugged in

One major reason I use the TC is because I use one wireless system for both basses. The pack stays on my belt. So I can’t use two cables and the TC has only one input connector anyway.

 

[Killing Floor]

I use my EQ2 for that. Amount other things.

 

[Ryan in PDX]

I vote for "any clean boost" as your easiest plug and play solution.

If you want a utility pedal with many uses: Boss LS2 Line Selector can be used as a simple clean boost, or solve your problem in more complicated ways.

 

[Gruff]

I switch between two basses live and there is a large difference between the output leve

I have a Boss LS2 pedal - one of its modes is to switch between two inputs, and there's a level knob for each one.

 

[Gearhead17]

MXR M81. You can set this pedal to whatever output you want and simply engage it after switching basses.

 

[TrevorR]

I used a Lehle 3@1 to switch between two basses of different output. Not cheap but the highest standard of electrical and mechanical engineering. Bomb-proof and 110% reliable for a regular gigger... Used mine for years.

 

[Jeff Cooke]

why?

I keep my basses on the side of my rig. I’d probably tangle the cords, and I have broken a cord off in the jack because I forgot to unplug it before putting the bass down. Had to use my shorter backup.

 

[Jeff Cooke]

TC Electronics Mini-Spark.

The trim pot of an active preamp is a fine idea, but I’d rather keep the output of my active fair to midland hot and boost the output of the passive bass with the Mini-Spark.

I have the Mini-Spark on a pedal board with my tube DI and tuner. Output of my bass wireless unit hits the tuner, then the Mini-Spark, and finally the DI and passing through the DI to my amp when I use one.

Just took a look at the Radial Bigshot mentioned above. That unit probably isn’t cheap, but it looks to be a VERY cool unit. Gonna look into that one

 

[Jeff Cooke]

I was just looking up the mini spark because of your post. I really think this is the way to go. Thanks!

 

[Geri O]

I was just looking up the mini spark because of your post. I really think this is the way to go. Thanks!

You can use the one-cable route as well. When I have a gig with no bass wireless, I have a cable going to the Mini-Spark. When I change basses, I mute the tuner, tuck the cable into my front pocket, change basses, plug back in, unmute, and off we go. Same as with the wireless cable.

I'm not a habitual bass-changer during shows, but I always have two basses and I'll get a wild hair and change on a whim. Hey, it works for me....