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The Path for a Proper Bass Sound Part 1: Applied Techniques With Igor Saavedra
Meet Igor Saavedra –
The chain is only as strong as its weakest link……..
It’s that simple my friends; this is exactly what happens with our sound path. So we have to take care of it at any of its stages.
The final sound will depend on a vast list of very different factors, and those factors are interrelated the same way as a chain is. We have to assimilate each factor of a chain link, but with a slight difference, which is that these links must be considered as being in a linear sequence, which means that we have to take care of every link starting by solving the first one and then going into the second one and so on. It would be nonsense to take care of this links trying to solve them in a random manner.
What factors I’m talking about? I’ve chosen to numerate them in a progressive list so it will be much easier for any of you to individualize any of them and also to identify the exact position that it has in the Sound Path.
1. Abstract Sound
First of all you must be absolutely clear at a “mental level” what bass sound you are looking for. It would be worthless to try to take care of the next links if you don’t know clearly what you want.
2. Surface that will make contact with the “Sound Element”
You must consider that using a pick, or your fingertips, or your nails, or any other material will strongly affect the remaining chain links. Also, you have to consider that there are many different types of picks depending on the material and the thickness. The same happens with the fingertips, because they will vary depending on the biotype of the bass player, which means that you have to analyze if your fingertips are soft, hard, big, small, wet, dry, smooth, rough, etc…
3. The “Touch”
A big percentage of the sound texture rests on this link. As with the previous link, a soft or a hard touch will affect every following link. It’s very important to add that we don’t really pluck the strings on a bass, and we don’t pinch them either. I mention that because the word “Pizzicato” comes from the Italian language and means “pinching”. What we really do on a bass string is to “press” it in on a 45 degree angle approximately and then release it. All this happens in a fraction of a second, but that is what we really do when we play the conventional bass pizzicato technique. Obviously there are variations on the attack angle of the finger, so is good to clarify that I’m referring to the standard technique.
4. The Strings
Many characteristics of the strings can affect the sound. Those are the diameter, the length, if it’s a round wound, half wound or flat wound string. The construction material also affects the sound, so you have to consider the material of the strings you are using (Steel, Nickel, Bronze, Aluminum-Nickel, Nylon-Metal, etc.) Finally, the installation of the strings is crucial. The winding around the tuners (more turns, less turns) and mostly the string height must also be considered.
5. The Instrument
This is one of the most complex elements to consider. We’ll analyze each factor in order not to miss any detail.
1. Construction Material: Wood, Graphite, Aluminum, Acrylic resin, etc. Regarding the wood, we have to take into account if the wood is hard, soft, dark, clear, heavy, light, etc.
2. Construction Type: Neck-Trough-Body, Set neck, Bolt on, Hollow body, Semi hollow body.
3. Instrument Scale: Standard Scale, Short Scale, Long Scale.
4. Body Size: As an example, please compare a Steinberger bass with a Ken Smith bass.
5. Hardware Material: I’m referring to the hardware that makes direct contact with the strings, like the tuners, the bridge, the nut, etc. This can be made of stainless steel, bronze, ebony, many different alloys.
6. The Frets: Frets can be made of stainless steel, nickel, nickel silver (Alpaca), and even ebony. Also frets come in different heights and widths. Regarding the fret width, you can find thin, standard, and jumbo frets. So the amount of fret material that makes contact with the string will affect the sound in different ways. Regarding the fret height, a taller fret will imply that the strings will be far from the fingerboard wood, and on a lower fret the string will be closer. That affects the bass sound a lot.
7. Tuner Tilt Angle: A higher angle will constitute a higher pressure of the strings over the nut. A lower angle will constitute a lower pressure of the strings over the nut. Each circumstance will affect the sound in a different manner.
8. Paint finish: Sound will be significantly modified by paint, varnish, lacquer, nitrocellulose, polyurethane-polyester, oil, etc.
6. Instrument Electronics
You always have to separate the instrument itself from its electronics due to the fact that they are very different fields. The variables of the electronic system start on the passive transducer, or the device who “receives the sound” which is normally called “The Pickup”. It’s important to consider the placing, distance from the bridge, the distance from the strings, height regulation, the winding, series, single, parallel, the model, soap bar, jazz bass, precision, the material, alnico, ceramic, samarium cobalt, iron, and the brand (two similar pickups from a different manufacturer almost never sound the same). The preamplifier is crucial, and it will color the sound we are offering to it. The most important feature of a standard bass preamp is the semi parametric equalization and you want to know how to use it.
Finally, the potentiometers are very important as well, and I would suggest not trying to save dollars when replacing them, and try to keep them dust free.
7. Cables and Connectors
Regarding the cables, we must consider the wiring quality, and the shielding and the isolating capabilities. The length of the cable is very important, so if we want to drive the maximum sound quality into the amplifier, you should consider using the shortest cable you can.
Regarding the connectors, whether they are male or female, never skimp on them. The connectors are the only link of the chain that transmits the sound by contact pressure and not by “structural conducting”. So try to use the same brand of male and female connectors because they were made for each other, and that means that there will not be any chance of a loose contact on the surfaces because of slight “untested” difference between brands. I’ve seen cases when two different brands get stuck and are very hard to unplug, and in some cases they are so loose that the male connector almost falls out.
That’s all for now my friends. Don’t miss the next issue where we’ll finish this story talking about links 8 to 14.
Igor Saavedra.
Positive Grid launches Spark 2, the next evolution of their cutting-edge smart guitar practice amplifiers and Bluetooth® speakers.
Engineered for acoustic, electric guitar, and bass, Spark 2 delivers an immersive practice and playing experience. Enjoy detailed sound and an all-new upgraded speaker design powered by Positive Grid’s exclusive Sonic IQ Computational Audio technology. With an onboard creative looper, optional battery power, and intuitive AI features for tone exploration and practice, Spark 2 is the gateway to a musical experience that goes beyond expectations.
Proprietary Audio and Advanced Technology
Spark 2 represents a leap forward in amplifier design. It integrates a new DSP amp modeling engine with double the processing power, and at 50 Watts, it packs 25% more volume than the original. Positive Grid’s proprietary Sonic IQ Computational Audio delivers incredibly detailed and dynamic sound. New HD amp models, enhanced by multi-band dynamic range compression and virtual bass augmentation, redefine the sonic landscape.
Equipped with two premium FRFR speakers and reflex ports, Spark 2 offers wide stereo imaging and broader frequency response, ensuring refined bass and clear, immersive sound.
Built-In Creative Looper
Spark 2’s built-in Groove Looper features hundreds of hyper-realistic drum tracks. From basic loops to multi-layered soundscapes or the ultimate jam session, this intuitive tool inspires endless creativity. Onboard amp controls provide quick, on-the-go looping functionality.
AI-Powered Tone and Smart Jam
Spark AI revolutionizes tone exploration. Describe any desired tone in the Spark app – from practical to outlandish – and Spark AI will suggest tones to audition or download. The more it’s used, the smarter it gets, delivering the perfect sound.
Additional smart features make it easy to practice, learn new songs and improve playing skills. Smart Jam listens to the user’s playing style and generates accompanying bass and drum parts, while Auto Chords analyzes any song streamed and displays the guitar chords in real time, to make learning and practicing new songs easier than ever.
Enhanced Hardware Design and Portability
Spark 2 allows for storing up to eight customizable presets directly on the amp for quick access to favorite sounds. Perfect the tone with large, visible onboard controls for looper, EQ, gain, reverb, and more.
Designed for convenience, an optional rechargeable battery provides up to 12 hours of playtime for on-the-go sessions. The new double-thick strap and durable build ensure easy and secure transport. Spark 2 is also Bluetooth® ready, allowing for music streaming and jamming along with favorite tracks anytime, anywhere.
Multiple Outputs and Advanced Features
Spark 2 offers versatile connectivity with a headphone out for private practice, stereo line outs for external audio sources, and a USB-C port which enables it to function as an audio interface. WiFi-enabled, Spark 2 allows convenient over-the-air firmware updates, keeping the amp up to date with the latest features and improvements.
“I’ve used a ton of practice amps while touring the world for over 38 years and it was always just a technical, bland exercise,” says guitar virtuoso, singer-songwriter and producer Nuno Bettencourt. “Spark 2 is like taking Madison Square Garden wherever you go – epic and versatile.”
Color Options
Available in Pearl or Black finish with a dark weave grille and premium finish.
Special Event, Upgrade Pricing & Availability
Join the special live premiere event featuring Nuno Bettencourt and surprise guests on August 1, 2024, at 8:00 am PT/11:00 am ET. Visit positivegrid.com/pages/livestream for more details and to sign up for a reminder.
Regularly USD $299, Spark 2 will be available at special early bird pricing during the pre-order period. Registered Spark 40 owners can also receive exclusive upgrade pricing.
For more information and to sign up for pre-order alerts, visit positivegrid.com/products/spark-2.
A review of the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
Introduction: The Joyo Gloam is a sub-octave fuzz pedal specifically designed for bass players, combining modern sub-octave effects with rich fuzz tones. With two independently controlled circuits, the Gloam aims to provide a versatile range of sounds, from deep, aggressive fuzz to Moog-like synth effects. This review will explore the Gloam’s specifications, controls, and overall performance, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 130 * 110 * 50 mm
- Weight: 403g
- Working Voltage: DC 9V
- Controls: The Joyo Gloam features a comprehensive control set designed to provide bassists with a wide range of tonal options:
- Dry Tone: Adjusts the tone of the clean signal.
- Dry Volume: Controls the volume of the clean signal.
- Sub Octave Volume: Adjusts the volume of the sub octave signal.
- Gain: Controls the amount of gain in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz: Adjusts the intensity of the fuzz effect.
- Bass: Controls the bass frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Treble: Adjusts the treble frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz Mode Switch: Switches between two different fuzz modes.
- Dry Tone Frequency Switch: Selects between two different frequency points for the dry tone.
Performance: The Joyo Gloam excels in its dual-circuit design, offering both a sub octave and a fuzz channel that can be controlled individually. However, it’s important to note that the octaver cannot be used without the fuzz circuit activated; the only way to solo the octaver is by turning down the fuzz while both channels are engaged.
Fuzz Circuit: The fuzz circuit includes standard controls such as gain, volume, bass, and treble, along with a fuzz mode switch that toggles between two distinct fuzz modes. While one of the fuzz modes is highly usable and delivers a rich, aggressive tone, the other mode falls short and is less practical for most applications.
Octaver Circuit: The octaver circuit features controls for sub octave volume, clean volume, and clean tone, along with a dry tone frequency switch that provides two different frequency options. This allows for significant tonal versatility, enabling bassists to fine-tune their sound to match their preferences. Despite its limitation of being tied to the fuzz circuit, the octaver produces a deep, balanced sound that stands out.
Combined Effect: When used together, the fuzz and octaver circuits create a wide range of sounds, from classic, aggressive fuzz to synth-like tones reminiscent of a Moog synthesizer. This combination makes the Gloam a powerful tool for bassists seeking to experiment with their sound and achieve unique, textured tones.
Pros:
- Versatile Controls: Extensive control options for both fuzz and octaver circuits.
- Rich Tones: Delivers deep, aggressive fuzz and balanced octaver sounds.
- Sturdy Construction: Durable build quality ensures reliability.
- Wide Range of Sounds: Capable of producing everything from classic fuzz to synth-like effects.
Cons:
- Unusable Fuzz Mode: One of the fuzz modes is less practical.
- Dependent Octaver: Octaver cannot be used independently of the fuzz circuit.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Joyo Gloam sub-octave fuzz pedal offers a versatile and powerful option for bassists looking to expand their tonal palette. Despite some flaws, the Gloam delivers impressive sounds and flexibility. Its combination of rich fuzz and deep octaver tones, coupled with a sturdy construction, makes it a valuable addition to any bassist’s pedalboard. For those seeking a modern bass distortion with the added depth of sub-octave effects, the Joyo Gloam is a compelling choice for a very compelling price.
Visit online at joyoaudio.com/product/281.html
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Behind the Strings – Jim’s Corner…
D’Addario & Co. proudly announces the launch of “Jim’s Corner,” a captivating new YouTube series telling the 400-year-old story of the D’Addario family creating the world’s largest music accessories company. This series features Jim D’Addario, Founder and Director of Innovation at D’Addario and Co., sharing his family’s remarkable journey from 17th century Italy to a 21st century global enterprise.
In the first four episodes now available, Jim D’Addario takes viewers back to the beginning, making strings from animal guts and knotting ukulele wire as a family around the television. Countless generations carried the passion forward until the 1970s when the company made it official and never looked back. Jim recounts the creation of strings that inspired legendary riffs, including one by The Who, the launch of Darco strings, the merger with Martin Guitars and the company’s humble beginnings with his wife, Janet and brother, John. Jim D’Addario’s firsthand accounts provide an intimate and personal perspective on the milestones and challenges that shaped D’Addario into the revered brand it is today.
Episode Highlights:
- Episode 1: The Early Days in Italy and the Move to America
- Episode 2: Inspiring Iconic Riffs and Legendary Partnerships
- Episode 3: Launching Darco Strings and Merging with Martin Guitars
- Episode 4: Building the D’Addario and Co. Legacy
Watch & Subscribe Now:
Join us in celebrating this incredible legacy by watching the first four episodes of “Jim’s Corner” on YouTube. New episodes will drop every month so please subscribe to our channel to ensure you don’t miss any future episodes and exclusive content from D’Addario & Co.: www.youtube.com/@daddarioandco
Gear News
Gear News: Aguilar Amplification Unveils Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp
Aguilar Amplification announces the release of the Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp pedal. Hand serialized 1-100, this exclusive edition celebrates Aguilar’s deep roots in New York City with a tribute to its iconic landmarks and vibrant spirit.
Born in the heart of NYC and raised on the road, the Tone Hammer Preamp DI has been an indispensable tool for bassists seeking inspiring tone and versatility. The new Limited Edition Gold NYC builds on this legacy with striking custom graphics encapsulating the essence of New York City. Featuring iconic landmarks from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, this pedal is not just a tool, but a piece of art embodying the soul of the city. Each unit features a sharp platinum silkscreen over a stunning matte gold sparkle finish, that is as visually captivating as it is sonically powerful.
The Tone Hammer is an essential preamp/direct box for every bassist’s toolbox. The Tone Hammer features fully sweepable midrange frequencies in addition to bass and treble controls. With the Tone Hammer’s pristine D.I. players are set for either studio or stage. To give this tone shaping unit the ultimate flexibility we introduce our proprietary Adaptive Gain Shaping circuitry (AGS). AGS allows the player to kick in an additional gain structure and EQ with the “stomp” of a button. You can go from modern slap sounds to vintage or overdriven. 18-volt operation gives the Tone Hammer plenty of headroom to reproduce the most dynamic playing styles. Separate gain and master controls allow players to dial in just the right gain structure for any instrument.
Aguilar Amplification’s Jordan Cortese adds, “With only 100 hand-numbered units available, this third iteration of our NYC edition Tone Hammer is a collector’s dream. “It’s a homage to our city’s monumental influence on music and culture and celebrates the craftsmanship and the story of Aguilar”.
Street price: $299.99 For more information, please visit www.aguilaramp.com
Gear News: Future Impact V4 Guitar & Bass Synth Now Available in the U.S.
Interview With Barker Bass’s Inventor and Writer Lee Barker
Working-Class Zeros: Episode #4 – Boutique and Vintage Basses, Dress Code for Summer Gigs
Gear News: Ibanez & Graph Tech Launch Multi-Scale Bass with Cutting-Edge Tuning
Album: John Entwistle, Rarities Oxhumed – Volume Two
July 22 Edition – This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Gear News: Positive Grid Launches Spark 2
Gear Review: Exploring the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass
Alberto Rigoni On Unexpected Lullabies
