RICK TOONE

We're not talking fishing here, folks. You're looking for this. Though it is all about choosing the right line.

Hmmm.

Orchid's hardware and pickups are in a state of design flux. Usually I like to build an instrument around those shiny little metal bits, but in this case I have a few questions about what's best. I'm considering EMG-MMTW because we've chosen a one-pickup design, and Halie plans to sing. Can't get electrocuted with EMGs.

But I've never used the EMG-MMTWs. So I figure it's time to get other opinions. I tossed questions toward the pro, my friend Damon Whittemore. He's a bassist who also runs the board for a bunch of NYC studios, including NPR and ValveTone. He is a founding partner and software designer for TriTone Digital. Check out his production work.

"Hey Rick,
Always happy to give my 2 cents:

1. Pickups? — I like EMGs, but I really like Lindy Fralins with Bartolini active/passive electronics.

2. How do you record? — Usually direct, though sometimes if the player has a good amp, or wants amp distortion, I'll add that too. Old Ampeg flip top? Yep, I love it when those show up. Though I can get some cool distortion without an amp (see below).

3. Signal chain? — My chain is a Radial JDK MK3 direct box to either a Telefunken V76 tube mic preamp (the king of mic preamps, especially for bass and voice) or to my old 1962 Grommes tube mixer. The Grommes is unique; it can be sweet and euphonic like the Telefunken, or, when gain-staged correctly, super touch sensitive and prone to tube overdrive like a HiWatt amp. Next in line is either a UREI La2a, 1176 or EL Distressor compressor, depending on the sound desired and the player's touch.

4. Bass in studio context? — I like basses that can switch between active and passive, without a lot of volume loss, and still retain some tone control in the passive world. My Mike Lull modern jazz 4 bass is like this. I just like them to sound good; but that's more about the player than the bass.

5. What would you like to see in bass development? — My big deal with basses as a player is neck playability. I like a thinner, faster neck: 1972 jazz. Tone, I like options but it should sound great with all pickups turned up, not muddy. I tend to not love 5 string basses, but I can see their place. Some players can use them tastefully; others can't. The Telefunken is one of the only preamps I have heard that can really do justice to the low-end of a fiver.

PS: If you're set on the 1 pickup design then I think the EMG is a good choice. Anyway, Orchid looks super cool!"

Lindy Fralins. Nice stuff. Orchid GUITAR pickups? Mmmm.

Alright.

Anyone else have an opinion?