• 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 free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

What do you use...

Sean S

Sean S

Apr 15, 2003
2,304
12
39
Sarnia, Ontario, Canada
#1
And you all thought this was going to be a newb "what do you play" thread :smug:

I was wondering what you guys use for impromptu string mutes?

I have some studio time coming up and some of our songs could use that funky old-school mute sound...so...yeah...nothing permanent.
 
#4
Heh, you don't think that your clever thread title may limit the number of responses you'll get? ;):p

In any case, I use a strip of thick foam/spongy material (found in a studio, never knew where it came from) under my bridge cover on my Precision. That and the LaBella flats make a perfect "thump".
 
#10
Left Left Goose said:
### NOOB QUESTION ####
whats the purpose for mutes?
Click to expand...

There are 2 purposes. You can put mutes at the bridge to get a thumpy palm muted tone. If you're using a bass for fret tapping or it has too many strings to mute easily with your hands, you can put a hair tie near the nut to prevent unwanted strings from ringing out or counter frequencies when fret tapping.
 
#13
spade2you said:
There are 2 purposes. You can put mutes at the bridge to get a thumpy palm muted tone. If you're using a bass for fret tapping or it has too many strings to mute easily with your hands, you can put a hair tie near the nut to prevent unwanted strings from ringing out or counter frequencies when fret tapping.
Click to expand...

y not just use you palm?
thats what i do to get a upright sound
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-dAZrBlGOY
i think its this video (cant watch them here at work)
he just puts his palm at the bridge and plucks with his thumb:hyper:
as for the too many strings to mute idk about that :D

JayAmel said:
The external side of my right hand.
Click to expand...

argh beat me to it
 
#15
EclecticElectrk said:
i think the perfect mute would be a hairband (i think they are called scrunchies). i think you can find them at any CVS rite aid etc.
Click to expand...
+1:ninja:
Ripper-1.jpg
 
#20
Sean S said:
And you all thought this was going to be a newb "what do you play" thread :smug:

I was wondering what you guys use for impromptu string mutes?

I have some studio time coming up and some of our songs could use that funky old-school mute sound...so...yeah...nothing permanent.
Click to expand...

I use the thick and fleshy part of my hand below my pinky finger to mute strings and to give it, as you say, "that funky old-school mute sound." Sorta like muted pickstyle playing, but without the pick.

I also use good muting techniques with both hands, and of course, no permanent or even temporary modifications are needed to any bass.

Give it a shot.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back