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Trademark: How Do Most Bassists Get Their Signature Sound? by Tim Risser
I’ve thought about this recently and there’s no simple answer. We learn to play bass via the internet, a good local teacher or just picking it up and laboring through; and initially, purchase a bass we can afford. This is a good start. As we progress we play the “trading” game- taking our used and cheaper version of whatever we initially fell upon in the guitar shop and upgrade. This is usually a fair way of expanding our sound and trying what others have. We don’t all start out with a high end bass and that helps us adapt and become good players. The compulsion to become a great bass player won’t be impeded by a bass with high action, below average pick-ups and an awful looking metallic blue paint job. A lot of us don’t own our first bass anymore, and it’s almost a guarantee that what we’re playing now is a massive upgrade!
*You always remember your first love.*
As we progressed in the early days of learning and developing, many of us wanted to emulate the sound of our favorite bassist. I know that countless players saw or heard the aggressive tones of John Entwistle and Jack Bruce, or were inspired by the slippery melodies of McCartney or Squire- and from that point on there was many aspiring players doing their best imitation, while creating their own musical soundscapes. Some bassists didn’t need more than a few listens from Jamerson’s Precision Bass and ever increasing songbook. Or what about the warmth and depth, when you first heard Jaco’s Fender Jazz Bass, blistering through Charlie Parker’s “Donna Lee”? No one’s going to sound like the genuine article- “the original”, and those icons are still regarded as some of the best.
Creating your own sound is part of what drives the excitement!
And you want me to plug in where?
Imagine being dropped off in a remote corner of the world, where as a new bassist, you are handed a very archaic instrument: a bass with no Fender or Warwick etched in the headstock, very rudimentary electronics and settings, and little more than a small amp to drive the sound. You’re just learning and you have never listened to modern music as we know it. No salsa, no jazz, no rock & roll; and from where you not only adjust to being self-taught, but you also find a way to play that will eventually rely on the pick-ups and amplification a specific brand can accommodate. For now, you simply play with your hands and you just learn in a way that is not influenced by anyone.
A year later you’re dropped into Time Square and walk into a Sam Ash Music store. You know the one that has a 100+ basses from most of the major dealers? The sky is the limit and you have the resources to buy anything. What would you immediately look for? Assuming you know nothing other than there are four separate string tones from low to high and the bass can at least transduce a wide array of tones- how would you find something gratifying? Where would you start to comprehend all of your options? Remember, nothing has gotten into your mind to influence your decision.
It would be an amazing auditory and sensory exploration!
First, what feels good– the contours of the body, the weight and balance; and what about the neck, string tension and action, fretless or fretted- maybe a low B or high C string? How do certain instruments feel, cradled in your arms or pressed against you? The physical traits of a bass guitar are similar to the most desirable attributes that pull us towards a significant other. Think about your first love- or most recent: it was the visual perception, intellect and emotional make-up of a person that spurned the adulation. A bass and a partner are no easy choice, and most of us spend a lot of time deciding!
I sense an online musician/dating site on the horizon…
A year would be a long time to develop your understanding of playability and now that that availability is limitless, what would initially drive you? What about cost- even if it wasn’t an issue? We all have dealt with that over the years and most non-professional bass players have some limits set to it (and a lack of expendable income!). A player who knows that cost is a good mediator of quality might grab a Sadowsky and just walk out with that purchase knowing it was the “obvious” choice. But what is obvious isn’t always a slam dunk. I don’t think that cheap equals crap either- there is a lot of low end models that can do some major damage when placed in the right hands (ever see Killian Duarte play the Duff McKagan Fender P bass??). If we had nothing to gauge our listening experience on, we would require some mental experimentation and patience. The pleasure of sampling different models would single out what we like and what we can do without.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but tone is mostly in your own hands.
Playing close to the bridge, slap & pop in its varying executions and even coveting the neck a’ la “My Generation” might make your first experience in the music store an epiphany. Even the smallest upgrade would renew the playing and commitment you have for your artistry. You’ve had a year to learn, so where do you go from here? You would be overcome with the possibilities! Think back to the excitement of just holding your first bass—it’s a moment you will hold onto forever! For months leading up to my first bass, I held a hockey stick in my hand and mimicked what it might be like to play the real thing. Yes– I looked like a dork!!
We all had high expectations when we purchased our first bass. The music store or website couldn’t propel it into our hands fast enough so we could plug it in & plug away on it, convinced we’d sound like Flea or some other modern electric bassist!? Buying a Stingray or Modulus as your first bass is not gonna provide you with little more than Flea’s tone- minus the feel he exhibits, his style, and a whole lot of frustration as you begin your musical journey. You will get there– put your time in and enjoy the scenery.
Flea
It makes sense to start cheap, and put as much effort into execution as possible. Your level of appreciation will grow infinitely! My first bass was a $299 Squier Jazz bass with super low action and passive electronics. THAT WAS AN AMAZING 1ST BASS! There are plenty of luthiers out there making basses with individuality. There are even more options from large scale manufacturers. It would be terrific if specialized luthiers had a lease to own option for their instruments (check out payment plans some manufacturers & websites offer). I know it’s not realistic or financially viable, but it would allow a lot of players to branch out and try basses they might never have an opportunity to play, let alone find in the local Guitar shop. If you have musician resources and friends, then you will have the opportunity to scoop up their old gear as they upgrade.
And assuming you’re never dropped into a secluded part of the world for any extended period of time, spend your first few years learning from whatever resources are available on whatever bass makes you happy, so you can etch out your own style and sound: the trademark that makes you unique.
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
