EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

dg27

New member
My current setup for pedals is

bass -> Digitech Bass Squeeze compressor -> Tech21 SansAmp BassDriver

I'm considering getting an MXR EQ:

http://goo.gl/DoS4WH

If I did this, where should it go in the string? I have heard some say first (after the bass) and others say last (before the amp).

Is there a consensus? Or is it a matter of taste?

dg
 
Re: EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

Totally a matter of taste.

If you run it first, it will color the bass sound and then go into your effects.

If you run it last, the EQ will affect the entire signal, whether it's clean or with the effects on.

Both have pros and cons. Easiest way to find out is to take a little time and figure out which one you prefer.
 
Re: EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

Thanks. This is what I want to use it for:

If you run it first, it will color the bass sound and then go into your effects.

I love the sound of one of my basses in some situations but not others. I like this unit because it has an on/off switch: The MXR EQ I used years ago did not.
 
Re: EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

I love the sound of one of my basses in some situations but not others. I like this unit because it has an on/off switch: The MXR EQ I used years ago did not.

The situations you mention, are those on a per song basis (as in, you need a deep, thumpy tone for this tune and then a bright one the next), or are you talking about projects in general? If it's the former, an EQ pedal is ideal, and I use one myself in this capacity. If it's for an entire project, I'd EQ the amp differently and not worry about an EQ pedal.
 
Re: EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

Absolutely per song basis. You described the situation exactly: need a deep, thumpy tone for this tune and then a bright one the next.

Out of curiosity, which EQ do you use?

Thanks!
 
Re: EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

Absolutely per song basis. You described the situation exactly: need a deep, thumpy tone for this tune and then a bright one the next.

Out of curiosity, which EQ do you use?

Thanks!

I use the Funkulator from Creation Audio Labs, which is a one knob mid-scoop EQ pedal designed for switching from fingerstyle to slap in an instant and not losing any low end (which usually happens). Works amazingly well for my needs.
 
Re: EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

Never underestimate Danelectro for cheap but effective EQ and Joyo for cheap but effective Compressor pedals
 
Re: EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

Absolutely per song basis. You described the situation exactly: need a deep, thumpy tone for this tune and then a bright one the next.

I do this with a J-bass by turning up the neck pickup for the first song, and the bridge pickup for the second song. :P
 
Re: EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

I find my simple Boss Bass EQ very useful for when I switch from electric to doghouse from song to song. There's always a couple songs that need a third sound (usually using the high strings of the doghouse) that need to be heard. (bass solo?) It's also a problem solver for bad acoustic venues.
 
Re: EQ pedal for bass: Where should it go?

I find my simple Boss Bass EQ very useful

Glad to hear you say that. Was all set to get the MXR but only when I saw it in person @ Sam Ash did I realize that the input/output are on the back of the unit instead of the sides (like the Boss), which I find really weird and do not like.

I prefer an an actual EQ with sliders: Had an old MXR for years till it was pinched at a gig (which ironically was a benefit for a band whose gear was stolen (!!)).

Thanks.
dg
 
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