Stomplab 2b vs Guitar Rig 5 Pro vs. Hartke Bass Attack for recording direct

[kokoshmusun]

I'm getting back to recording bass for a simple pop/rock project that I plan to self-produce and release in Spotify. I'm not too picky soundwise but I want to get a decent sound of course.

I currently have an Ibanez GSR200 that I'm happy with. I will record direct into DAW via audio interface. I own Guitar Rig 5 Pro (VST) which has some bass presets.

However, I have the option of getting a cheap 2nd hand Stomplab 2b (which I researched and seems to sound pretty good, better than Zoom B1 four) or a Hartke Bass Attack VXL. I might add a compression in front if I get the latter, like the BBE Opto Stomp, which I can also get for cheap. I think with these options, I would need any amp/cab sim because they have those?

The interface is a Roland Duo Capture EX and it can take both XLR and 1/4" (I plan to use the latter type of cable, especially if I record with Stomplab or GR5).

I know this is not an easy question but I wonder if anyone sees a clear advantage to any of these three options: 1) GR5, 2) Stomplab 2b, 3) Hartke VXL.

I'm ok with the first option, which is available to me currently. I've never owned the latter two.

Thanks!

 

[AGCurry]

I don't know what all of these devices and/or software programs are - I assume they produce different effects - but you give yourself more freedom if you record without effects. You can apply effects later, nondestructively.

 

[kokoshmusun]

Right, thanks, I want a device or VST for basic tone and good low end, not for effects.

That the stomplab has extra effects is of course nice for jamming outside of recording but the effects are not essential.

 

[AGCurry]

Right, thanks, I want a device or VST for basic tone and good low end, not for effects.

Anything that changes the sound of your instrument IS an effect and can be applied after you have recorded a track. In a recording/production project, changes of mind usually happen, and it is much easier to do that when you have not committed yourself and your tracks to a baked-in sound in the beginning.

 

[kokoshmusun]

Got you, when you said effects, I thought you were referring to flanger, delay, etc. Yes, you are right but I'm just a home musician. I think I can bake stuff in and live with that. It frees up my computer resources if I can use an outboard device vs. a VST. And if I find a good device that does the basic tone well, I might be happier with that instead of obsessing endlessly with the wider options in the VST land.