ezbass

I’m not sure I’m losing overtones, but maybe I am. However, in a mix, it seems to sit better, maybe that means stand out, without interfering with other sounds in the mix, which may cause sonic mush. The long and short of it is, if you don’t like what compression does, don’t use it, there are no rules that say you must or must not use a particular sound, which also applies to eq or any effect. If it sounds good, it is good. As I said, YMMV.

I didn’t use compression for many, many years. Then, I started using a tube amp simulation live and folk in the band commented on how good it sounded, I didn’t think about it too much, just kept using it. Then, when Covid and lockdown hit, I became involved with recording projects, as did a lot of other people. When I was mixing my part, I shared the file with a friend who is a fabulous FOH engineer who owns his own sound reinforcement company that does many prestigious events. He liked the recording and the mix, but suggested I try a particular set of compression parameters on my bass track. I tried it and it was a revelation. Rather than burying my track, it made it sit better and sound really punchy and this was with quite subtle compression settings. I immediately went about finding a compressor pedal that I could obtain a close approximation of these settings with. I did (an MXR M87) and it worked just as I’d hoped, when I returned to playing live. It then became apparent that the tube amp sim I’d been using pre lockdown, was compressing my bass in a similar fashion, which, albeit with added dirt, was making the difference, when I used it. My compressor is now a permanently on feature of my pedal board, with the amp sim only there to add some grind when required. Rather than detracting from my overall tone, I find the compressor focuses it. YMMV.

Maid of Orleans - OMD

Free Man in Paris - Joni Mitchell

The Family and the Football Net - Peter Gabriel

When the Levee Breaks - LZ

I quite like that.

Bang Bang - B A Robertson

Chicken Grease - D'Angelo (ft Pino on bass).

Who Are You - The Who

Mamba #5 - Lou Bega

If you’re ok with the weight (which you say you are) this will be amazing. There is something about a plexi instrument. Looking forward to the completed photos.

(Thread) Bare Necessities - Phil Harris

Or… Kate Bus

Tone Broken

Ten Ears After Joe Wash Climax Blues Bad Lady Gag

Def Leppar

Taking Heads Lack Sabbath Go Wet The Lash

Bad to the Bonn - George Thorogood

In Haydn - Pearl Jam

Hard to Handel - Otis & others.

It does have a touch of Tony Levin’s, Barbie Flesh, ‘Ray5 about it, which, to my eyes, is a good thing.