patch cable seeks pedal (first/only effect ideas, please)

[fermata]

I have an extra patch cable with nothing to plug into, so I'm thinking about maybe getting a pedal for it.

Currently, my only pedal is a tuner--in other words, I'm very much a (passive) bass --> cable --> amp type of player, and I lean toward roots music and free improvisation. But especially now, when opportunities to play with others is limited, a pedal/new sound option might could be fun.

So, what would you recommend as a single effect (no multi-effects units!) that could offer a creative spark for solo play (and eventually be used in a group setting, too)?

 

[Alien8]

A filter pedal like an EHX QBalls. You can use it subtly as a tone shaper or get a bit more wild with it. The range takes it away from being a one trick pony and gives you something to learn from a sound as well as technique perspective.

 

[fermata]

A little bump to see if anyone has other thoughts.

I've liked some of the Phase 90 demos I've seen; seems to color the sound without losing the fundamental. I'll have a chance to try one this weekend.

Another sound that intrigues me is something like the Bazz Fuss, particularly for the the synthy tone it imparts.

 

[Mo'Phat]

Fractal Audio AX8.


/kidding.

If you do Free Improv stuff, chances are there's room for bass solos or breaks. A clean boost is right up your alley. Check out the TC Electronic Spark, MXR Micro Amp, etc. If you want color AND boost, the MXR Phase 90 is a classic...although the 'boost' is more a sense that you're forward in the mix, as there's no separate volume control or gain. Look, especially, at the MXR M290 Mini Phase 95 pedal, which has selectable phases and a script mod. MXR M290 Mini Phase 95 Pedal

 

[sunbeast]

Overdrive, fuzz, chorus, phaser, filter, octaver. Too hard to choose just one! I think a synthy gated bass fuzz can definitely be very versatile (but I’m currently in the market for a 3Leaf Doom fuzz, so biased).

 

[Killing Floor]

Just suck it up and get a C4. If you really consider a synth with a massive library of options a "multi" effect then maybe something else? Walrus Julia chorus/vibrato.