Bass Live Recording - Results

Initial plan: To test out the combination of using both DI and bass amp to record using different selections of mics in aim for a sound that mostly stays within the low range.

*Because we were told that the plan was fairly similar as the other group, we decided to go for re-amping technique as advised. However, during our session, we realized that we do not have a twin female XLR cable that should be used to connect the input of the bass amp to one of the lines connecting to the mixer. We also do not have a reamp box in order to execute this experiment. We also consulted Andrew, who was coincidentally in the room, in regards to the reamping technique and he confirmed to us that it would not work without a twin female cable.*

Therefore, we changed our plan by experimenting with mic placements instead.

First experiment done was to purely use a passive DI box:

Second experimentation with mic placements led us to this placement which was rather off-axis. Direct miking straight towards the cone had faster attacks, more mid-range (the sound of plucking) and was less preferable to the ears for our experiment. We then settled down for this placement as it has more bottoms to it and resonates smoothly to the ears with lesser attacks heard.

Personally, while recording a live band inside the studio, I would opt for using a DI box to record the bass as I would have more control to mixing the bass since I'm receiving the cleanest tone of it. Miking up the bass amp will also be another thing to consider in a live band setting as there will be at least one other amp used in the same room; to avoid bleeding issues as much as possible and to figure out the best way to surround the amp and the mic to ensure the mic picks up the most of its target instrument.