Tone Profile

A heavily distorted and compressed bass tone with a gritty, almost synth-like quality, providing a powerful and driving low-end foundation. It's characterized by its aggressive attack, sustain, and overall presence in the mix.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• Chris Wolstenholme's bass sound on 'Hysteria' is notable for its use of distortion and filtering.
• The Big Muff Pi likely provides the core distortion, while the Line 6 Filter Modeler (or similar filter effect) is used to create the dynamic, wah-like sweeps and tonal variations.
• A blend of direct input and miked amplifier signals might have been used to capture both the raw distortion and the warmth/body of the amp.
• Compression is a key ingredient in achieving the consistent, in-your-face bass presence.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a P-bass or similar bass with a strong fundamental tone.
• Use a Big Muff Pi (or similar fuzz pedal) to achieve the heavy distortion.
• Experiment with filter pedals or plugins, especially those capable of auto-wah or envelope filter effects, to create the dynamic sweeps.
• Use a compressor to even out the dynamics and add sustain.
• Consider blending a direct input signal with a miked amp signal for added clarity and punch.
• EQ the bass to cut any excessive low-end rumble and boost the frequencies that help it cut through the mix.

Recommended Gear

• Fender Precision Bass(guitar)
• Ampeg SVT-VR(amp)
• Neumann U47(mic)
• Big Muff Pi(pedal)
• Line 6 Filter Modeler(pedal)