40hz

Unlike other words used to describe tonal aspects, I actually think punch is a fairly easy one to identify, myself. 🤷‍♂️ It's the actual 'thump' and strong sensation of air/volume moved with each note. A noticeable attack to each plucked (or slapped) note. That hit in the back you get, standing in front of a cab.

I suspect multiple drivers might be the answer. Just trying to see if there is a way round having to go 6x10 and beyond! I love the idea of a giant cab, but the sheer weight of most of them rules them out, more or less.

I agree! Maybe I'm chasing something unrealistic. The heads I use are a 600w Mesa Boogie M-Pulse and a 550w TC BH550. Neither want for headroom or volume, and will both comfortably go louder than I've ever needed. Compression-wise, I use a Seymour Duncan Studio Bass. I don't crank it in normal playing - usually around 50% as a subtle addition. This is one thing that seems to add some 'thump'.

I've tried to do a search on this, but I can't seem to find anything specific to this question. What would, in your experience, you say were the punchiest cab type/brand/size? I'll be changing up cabs soon, and aside from weight, the thing that matters most to me, isn't deep bass, hi-fi sizzle, or necessarily loudness, it's the ability for the speakers to really 'thump' and project notes with really noticeable force. In the past 19 years, I've owned all sorts of different cabs, but the closest I got to the sound in my head was a pair of 2x10 TC K-Series cabs, stacked vertically (but I still wanted more). Cabs I've used include Vanderkley, Gallien-Krueger, Trace, Ashdown, Markbass and Warwick. I'm thinking the answer might just be more speakers? Any suggestions or info that could help direct me?

My fave Chili Peppers album. Dark, heavy, seething with menace and lots of heavy psychedelic guitar. It's absolutely nothing like anything they've ever done before or since (aside from Aeroplane, which I can't stand). I love it - it comes from a dark place and shows it.

My tech guy got them direct from Ernie Ball themselves. I'd definitely recommend doing the same with your SUB! There is something about the tonality of a Stingray/USA SUB that lends itself amazingly to fretless. The graphite neck just amplifies it 10x.

I know people will inevitably counter this with an opposite experience, but for me, the only time I ever experienced fret wear, was using Rotosounds.

Completely agree. This is my problem with a lot of boutique instruments. I'm considering one myself soon, so have been really looking into the signature tones they give. I like a bass with an identity, sound-wise, and many boutique instruments/brands are very neutral and fairly bland sounding.

That's fair enough (I watched more of the first video, you're quite right). However, the Darkglass produced video is all overdriven bass, aggressive music styles and even an obligatory Dingwall!

I've always liked the Darkglass aesthetic, but I'm kinda waiting on them releasing something that doesn't cater to a modern 'metally' (for want of a batter phrase) audience. Maybe I'm just being an idiot and they know their audience and are maximising it, but I'd love to try their take on a clean, more neutral amp that doesn't focus/cater towards heavier styles, as they clearly know their stuff and make high quality gear.

You're right - edited.

Just nabbed some example images from Google, I'm crap at attaching images via mobile, but I'll try! Granted, ones a 4 and one's a 5 banger, but you can see the difference. First one is a 1991 - curvier, sleekier and much more attractive. Second is a 2018 - Much flatter and squarer looking. Not a fan. I wonder if Warwick would consider shaping a Stage 2 the old way, as a custom option?

In fairness I think Fodera was used as an example for expensive basses by the OP, not targeting them specifically or solely.

Hello all! I've been looking at perhaps purchasing a Stage 2 in the not too distant future and out of interest, had a look at the Warwick website at the pricing for a new one and options for customisation (as they appear once in a blue moon 2nd hand - usually a good sign). Having had 2 x Streamer LX's (04 + 09) and 1991 Stage One, the body shape on the newer Streamers is nothing like the ones I've had before. If anything it looks more like my Rockbass Streamer. With really defined 'flat edges' on the top of the bass and a different shaped lower horn. It looks less curvaceous and IMO, much less attractive. Am I imagining this? And why did Warwick do this? Thanks in advance!

I second this. Usually the cheaper Fenders have a brighter sound.

The first one is brighter by a gnats b*llock. Otherwise they sound identical to me.

There is joy to be had in subverting assumptions with types of basses. "That guys playing a Fodera, I wonder what flavour of 16th note jazz fusion replete with double thumbing will be coming my way?!" Bass player - Plays 'With or Without You' by U2. If you can afford it, play what you like! They're only tools. You don't have to justify yourself to anyone.

Agreed. I never really understood the love it gets from some quarters. That album is 70% indulgent filler, IMO.

It's difficult to say off the basis of one song, but I hope the rest of the album isn't like it. I love it when they've performed a 180° and done some something completely different, like One Hot Minute (with Uplift Mofo, my fave album of them all) and By The Way. However, they seemed to have settled for this bland, MoR, style since Stadium Arcadium (which I can't stand). So, even as an old fan, I'm not against them changing at all, I welcome it, just make sure it's something wild and worth doing!

John Frusciante is an absolute guitar god. His playing is just on another level to anyone. IMO.

Late to the party here, but IME, Ampeg are the closest to the Ashdown sound. Tonal bedfellows for sure.

I love the band to pieces, but I find this pretty bland. It's very 'singy' and in the style they went to around Stadium Arcadium. I want rapping, slap bass and some funk, damn it! P.s - It seems Anthony has modelled his voice on Hagrid in parts of this song.

Dave is the guy I use! His backlog is the result of this thread! 🤣

Hi all, Can anyone recommend an amp tech in the area? My usual go to is snowed under with work. I need a couple of things looking at within 4 weeks or so (upcoming slew of gigs) . Many thanks in advance!

The distance to the bridge is the measurement that matters? Or have I got that wrong? Judging from the photo, it looks the same as the older Basic model.