TONEDB

bass guitar from “glory days” by bruce springsteen | ToneDB

glory days

bruce springsteen

bass guitar

85% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A round, punchy, and supportive bass tone with a warm, classic rock character, providing a solid foundation with good definition. It sits perfectly in the mix, driving the song without being overly aggressive.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Fender Precision Bass (likely a 1962 model) with roundwound strings (possibly slightly broken-in for warmth but retaining attack)

Amp: Ampeg B-15N Portaflex

Microphone: Electro-Voice RE20

Processing: Direct Injection (DI) Box (signal blended with mic'd amp), Studio Compressor (e.g., Urei 1176 or Teletronix LA-2A), Console EQ (e.g., Neve or API for shaping)

Other: Played with a pick for defined attack and consistent rhythm. The DI signal provides low-end clarity and punch, while the mic'd amp adds warmth, character, and midrange detail. The blend is key to the overall sound.

Recording Notes

  • Recorded during the 'Born in the U.S.A.' sessions, likely at The Power Station or The Hit Factory in New York.
  • The album aimed to capture the E Street Band's live energy within a polished studio production.
  • Engineered by Toby Scott and mixed by Bob Clearmountain, known for his punchy and clear mixes, particularly in the low-frequency spectrum.
  • A common technique for bass was blending a DI signal (for fundamental clarity and attack) with a microphone on the amplifier (for warmth and character).
  • Garry Tallent's playing style is typically melodic yet foundational, always serving the song.

Recreation Tips

  • Use a Fender Precision Bass or a similar style instrument with roundwound strings. Don't use brand new strings if you want a bit more warmth; slightly broken-in ones are ideal.
  • Play with a pick, focusing on consistent downstrokes near the bridge (but not too close to sound thin) for a driving, defined attack.
  • Roll the tone knob on the bass back slightly (e.g., to 70-80%) to tame excessive brightness and achieve a rounder tone.
  • Use an Ampeg B-15 amp model or a similar tube bass amp. If using a physical amp, an Ampeg SVT can also work but dial it for warmth rather than aggressive grind.
  • Blend a clean DI signal with your amped/modeled sound. Start with a 50/50 blend and adjust to taste. The DI provides core low-end and attack; the amp provides character.
  • Apply moderate compression (e.g., 3:1 to 4:1 ratio, medium attack, medium to fast release) to even out dynamics and add sustain. An LA-2A or 1176 style compressor is ideal.
  • Use EQ to ensure the bass sits well in the mix. A slight boost in the low-mids (200-400Hz) can add warmth, and a gentle cut in the sub-bass (below 40Hz) can improve clarity. Ensure the upper-mids provide definition without being clanky.

Sources