• 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 would you use?

ninerfan

ninerfan

May 28, 2006
733
218
North San Diego
#1
Getting ready to record some tracks and have some options. Here's what I have:
SM57
Audix D4 (have mic set for drums, heard D4 was best for bass)
Ampeg SVT-II DI
GT The Brick
ART MPA Gold with Ruby tubes
Presonus FP10

I'm thinking of recording 3 tracks:
1) Brick --> interface
2) SM57 --> MPA --> interface
3) D4 --> MPA --> interface

My questions are:
Is the brick an improvement over the SVT-II DI?
Is the Brick an improvement over the ART?
Should I even bother with the SM57?
Should I use the ART for the mics or the Presonus Pre's?

Oh, I'm using US Fender Jazzes (Standard with NJ4's and '06 Deluxe) --> SVT-II --> Berg NV610. We play Rock, think Black Crowes, Zepp, ect...

Thanks for your help!
 
#2
If you use effects or are considering reamping, i'd use the cleanest/most transparent DI you can get your hands on for initial tracking. This will also let you experiment with mic choice/placement on your cab at a later time, although that of course means more hours on your bill.

If you're happy with the sound of your bass DI'd to the board, I'd go with whatever DI/pre you like the most.
 
#3
I think balancing the D4, SM57 along with a DI (I would use the Brick over the amp DI in case it isn't post-preamp) would yield good results. My best recorded sound has come from using a Sanheiser 421 and a DI.Good luck!
 
#4
Disclaimer: I am not a fan of my bass tone when DI'd.

I've recorded using your exact same setup several times (including using your old compresor:D).

Typically we'll mic a couple speakers --57's are nice for midrange and presence, I remember some of the kick mic's having a bit of a scoop, and throw it into a compressor and then into the board.

I can't comment on the quality of the DI on the SVT-II compared to the alternatives as I have never been able to get my sound with any of the DI's I've used...
 
#5
I will probably use a Polish Love pedal for a little grit and a Bass-driver for a little dirt in some sections. I will be experimenting, but I 'm pretty sure I will end up with a blend of DI and mic.
The Brick is my friend's. He's letting me try it out before I decide to buy it or not. I don't want to spend $ i don't need to. If it isn't better than the SVT's DI, I don't need it.
The D4 is a floor tom mic and isn't as scooped as the D6. We'll see how it goes.

Thanks for the responses so far!

When's Breakhouse's next gig? I'm working on a new project, first gig to come soon;)
 
#6
ninerfan said:
I will probably use a Polish Love pedal for a little grit and a Bass-driver for a little dirt in some sections. I will be experimenting, but I 'm pretty sure I will end up with a blend of DI and mic.
The Brick is my friend's. He's letting me try it out before I decide to buy it or not. I don't want to spend $ i don't need to. If it isn't better than the SVT's DI, I don't need it.
The D4 is a floor tom mic and isn't as scooped as the D6. We'll see how it goes.

Thanks for the responses so far!

When's Breakhouse's next gig? I'm working on a new project, first gig to come soon;)
Click to expand...

Ultimately I think it comes down do whether you like the sound of your bass or you like the sound of your bass through your rig. I am definitely of the second camp. I bought my NV610 (after seeing yours ;)) and am really happy with what it adds, or takes away, or whatever.

It can't hurt to grab a DI recording assuming that you'll have enough inputs to work with. Do you have a second set of trusted ears to work with?
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back