Parametric EQ Settings for Slap Bass?

[DiazRomero]

I can't seem to get the right tone I want for slap bass. I have a six band parametric EQ and I tried the smiley face configuration, but it's still not right. What are the specific frequencies I should be boosting and cutting and how much?

 

[seamonkey]

Try a multiband compressor, i.e. compress the bass more than the mids and highs. Or however you like.
If you have a DAW try a demo of one of several plugins available so you can see how they work for you before buying hardware.

 

[Big_Daws]

of course the smiley face EQ didn't work....its the worst idea for an EQ ever...not just for bass, but for anything...worst....lol

anyways that small rant is done...basically you will want to boost your mids, and thats about it...a comp really is (basic use of a comp) only going to help the sudden spikes in volume not seem so abrasive, or help the signal not to clip out.

as a gear solution, i have a tech21 Bass Driver Programmable. this i can preset 3 "tones" that can accomodate a clean sound, overdrive, and something for pop/slap. so far it has been amazing!!! 3 years going strong using it...

 

[Dave W]

While I'm a huge proponent of boosting mids, the typical slap tone that most people look for is scooped mids.

 

[Big_Daws]

to me that sounds kinda counter intuitive since most of the frequencies that you are looking to brighten are in the high mids....

 

[Downunderwonder]

Slapping is the one time thump and clank is what you want more of, relative to mids, ergo mid scoop.

Set the parametric for your usual tone. Take the middle parametric, set for relatively wide Q, cut it some. Done.

Now if it's already set like that, maybe your whole tone is jacked up.

 

[Doug Parent]

If I may chime in, and I'm not trying to be a wise guy, but "cutting mids" is a little general, whereas, say cutting 3-5 db @ 1khz with a narrow Q is perhaps a little more specific. I find getting rid of the upper midrange "clank" provides the perceived "boost" of the lows and highs without taking away too much over all signal. But this all very sloppy advice without having the bass and amp at hand so we can hear what he has to work with in the first place. Different basses/different pickups, etc etc.