• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Recommend a compressor

zeffbeff

Guest
Dec 14, 2014
45
57
46
As I'm getting deeper into bass, I need a better tone-shaping solution for my recordings. I'd been running my bass through an active DI, into interface, then using Logic's multiband compressor and amp sim. It's OK, but not as rich as I want.

Therefore, I'd like to get a nice analog outboard bass compressor, even if it's in pedal form. I need my A string to be as loud as my E string when recording, if you know what I mean.

I also like the idea of a better analog DI box. Is there something which will cover all the bases?
 
Get the Empress ECM-519 Compressor...

ECM-519---3-4_large.jpg


It also comes in a convenient pedal form...

Compressor_3-4_068a714d-5de7-4dbf-b5ff-f8421bd054b8_large.jpg
 
If it does not have to be in pedal form and is in your budget, I would really look at the Warm Audio WA76. Basically an 1176 at a fraction of the price. If not, then, Empress, Cali76, FEA, all good choices.
 
As I'm getting deeper into bass, I need a better tone-shaping solution for my recordings. I'd been running my bass through an active DI, into interface, then using Logic's multiband compressor and amp sim. It's OK, but not as rich as I want.
There are a lot of very good software compressors. I would look at 1176LN Classic Limiting Amplifier Plug-In.

Therefore, I'd like to get a nice analog outboard bass compressor, even if it's in pedal form. I need my A string to be as loud as my E string when recording, if you know what I mean.
What is your budget? Do you want it to color the sound? Using a compressor to do minor string to string balancing is ok, but I would not use it to fix a level problem. Start by adjusting your strings and also check your technique.

I also like the idea of a better analog DI box. Is there something which will cover all the bases?
There are a lot of good recording DI's for bass starting with the Millenia TD-1 and Universal Audio 6176. I think the most important piece of recording hardware one can buy is a high quality AD/DA convertor. A good studio DI can easily run over $1000. What is your budget?
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: nshuman

Latest posts