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What do I need to solve my problem

Discussion in 'Effects [BG]' started by mr_flood, Jul 23, 2013.

  1. Jul 23, 2013 #1
    mr_flood

    mr_flood

    Mar 18, 2013
    I am currently using an Ibanez SR500 through a GK MB115 combo. I've put flat wounds on the bass and am able to dial in a nice 'warm' sound that I really like. That is, when I'm playing alone. When I get onstage with the band all I hear is the booming E string.

    I've been able to solve this by turning the Mid EQ on the bass all the way up, the Low EQ at 12 o'clock and the High EQ at at zero. Meanwhile on the amp, I have the Hi-Mid and Low-Mid at 3 o'clock, and the Treble and Bass at noon, Boost at 9 o'clock. When I do this I get a nice punch that cuts through the band but I lose that 'warmth' that I get when I don't have the mids turned up so far.

    I was thinking that I could solve this by getting a really good compressor, but while I was reading's Bongo's compression website I saw that he mentioned a tube amp will do some compression on its own. That puts a wrinkle in my plans because I am planning on upgraded my rig to a GK MB Fusion 500 amp with the Neon 2x12 cabinet.

    Would it be redundant and/or overkill to go out and buy a good compression pedal now with the future purchase of the tube amp in mind? Is there some other way I could solve my problem besides a compression pedal that would go well with the Fusion amp?
     
  2. Jul 23, 2013 #2
    eriky4003

    eriky4003

    Jun 28, 2011
    Ottawa, ON, Canada
    I believe there is some natural compression with tube amps but will not be a substitute for a good pedal. You can write Bongo direct, however.
    One thing I've learned is it's possible one of your pick-ups needs to be adjusted so the e doesn't boom as it's too close to that particular string. That may be a quick fix so worth trying first. If it doesn't, a compressor pedal may be in your future.
     
  3. Jul 23, 2013 #3
    Nev375

    Nev375

    Nov 2, 2010
    Missouri
    Sounds like someone in your band is hogging all those nice warm frequencies to himself (>_>guitarist) and you have to adjust your tone to suit them rather than they adjusting to suit you.

    Either that or the room you are in is cancelling out those frequencies.

    A compressor can give you a little boost in the mix, but don't expect miracles. It will still be pretty much the same tone.