Preamp? (Newbie question)

[Spacetube]

Hello!

According to the FAQ, this question doesn't automatically warrant a "Googlelol/RTFM" sort of response, so here goes:

I`m relatively new to bass playing, am learning, and i've started to get an idea what sort of tones i'd like to work with. Now, i feel that i've managed to wrap my head around the various kinds of effect pedals, that would fit what i'm looking for, but i couldn't be more confused when it comes to preamps. How do i go about picking one? Are there classifications, like for pedals (fuzz, OD, distortion, etc)?

I'm looking for tones similar to early OM, and bands like Talbot, and similar sludge/doom acts - a sort of bass/extremely overdriven guitar combination sound is how i`d describe it. Seeing as these bands aren't THAT popular, the information on what they use/have used is very scarce. I currently have an EH Bigmuff PI, but i`ve had to come to terms with the fact that, unless i get a decent valve amp, it`s not going to be enough for that sort of sound.

If it`s not clear enough what sort of sound i'm looking for, i can provide links to a few example-songs.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can offer advice on this!

 

[SirMjac28]

It really depends on your current setup and how much money you are willing to spend. I really think you just need the right overdrive as far as preamps go I think any of the Sansamp products can get you where you need to be preferably the BDDI also take a look at the Tone Hammer or the Rusty box to get the tone you are talking about I use a Meatsmoke Pre with a Darkglass B3K if you are on a budget the new Zoom MS-60B has some great effects I highly recommend it. I would need to know more about your current setup and you don't need a tube amp for that sound it just makes it easier to get it.

 

[RickenBoogie]

You don't "need" a preamp if you're using a bass head. Any flavor of overdrive, distortion, or fuzz you prefer, but you only "need" a preamp to drive a poweramp.

 

[Sav'nBass]

I can second mjac on the MS-60. I have a B3 but if you are new to all this and want to try to find out just what you want that MS-60 is hard to beat. It has amps modeled, preamps, OD, distortion, flangers, compression you name it. At $90 (10% off of $99 @ MF till the third) you just can't beat it.

 

[johnbegone]

Check out the shootout link in my signature - should help guide your decision, I hope.

Sounds like you're looking for heavier stuff though, which may lend itself to a full on distortion or fuzz pedal as your "always on" tone. You might have success by pushing one of the preamp pedals with an overdrive though to get you there.