Grant wrote:

While we're on the subject of recording bass, I (a rank amateur)
recently had the task of mixing down a bunch of digital tracks that were
recorded during a live performance of my band. The bass track used the
direct-out from the bassist's amp and was recorded without EQ.

When attempting to mix these down, I found that the bass track had an
incredible amount of annoying string squeaks and fret buzzes in it. I
had to apply pretty heavy EQ (bass boost, mid and treble cut) to make
that junk less audible in the mix. Our bass player points out that you
never hear all of that in the live sound from the bass amp, because the
amp/speaker don't reproduce higher frequencies very well. That may be
true, but I'm wondering how much of what I'm hearing is just intrinsic
to DI recording of bass, and how much is a function of the bass guitar
itself and/or the player.

DI's are all over the place in relation to the amped sound, but still, a
well adjusted instrument in the hands of a skilled player makes a world
of difference in the fretboard racket. That noise _does_ affect what
comes out of the amp, and I don't like to have to work with folks who
suggest it'll never be heard for whatever reason.

Years ago I called a good friend and fine drummer for some session work.
While dialing-in the drum sound I heard a little rattle in his kit, and
told him about it. He replied that we'd never hear it in the mix. I
never called him again for any session work. Get a few such noises going
and yes, their sum is right there screwing with the mix.

That said, the DI box used also has a large effect. Give me an Evil
Twin.

--
ha