bass guitar from “the real me” by the who | ToneDB
the real me
the who
bass guitar
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Tone Profile
A powerful and present bass tone with a slightly overdriven edge, providing a driving force for the song. It's articulate and punchy, fitting perfectly within the energetic mix.
Gear
- Fender Precision Bassinstrument
- ReverbSweetwater
- Hiwatt DR103amp
- ReverbSweetwater
- Neumann U47microphone
- ReverbSweetwater
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The Story
John Entwistle's bass tone on 'The Real Me' was recorded at Ramport Studios using his signature Fender Precision Bass played with a pick and roundwound strings. He used a Hiwatt DR103 amplifier, often in a bi-amped setup that blended clean and slightly overdriven signals. The recording was engineered by Bob Pridden, capturing the aggressive, articulate tone that became Entwistle's trademark.
Production Credits
Producer: Kit Lambert
Engineer: Bob Pridden
Recorded at: Ramport Studios, London
Signal Chain
Instrument: Fender Precision Bass
Amp: Hiwatt DR103
Microphone: Neumann U47
Recreation Tips
- Start with a Fender Precision Bass and roundwound strings.
- Use a pick for a brighter attack and aggressive playing style.
- An Hiwatt DR103 amplifier is crucial; dial in a tone with a balance of clean and slightly overdriven characteristics. Experiment with the input gain and master volume.
- If an Hiwatt is unavailable, try a similar high-powered amp known for its clean headroom and responsive overdrive. Consider using a pedal to add a subtle overdrive if needed.
- Record with a Neumann U47 or similar large-diaphragm condenser microphone placed a few feet from the cabinet, adjusting the position to capture the desired balance of lows and clarity.
- Blend a touch of overdrive to replicate the slightly edgy tone.
Original Gear
- Fender Precision Bass(guitar)
- Hiwatt DR103(amp)
- Neumann U47(mic)
Substitutions & Recommendations
Alternative to: Fender Precision Bass
Modern version of Entwistle's main instrument with the same fundamental P-Bass tone and pickup configuration
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Hiwatt DR103
Current production version of the exact amp Entwistle used, delivering the same clean headroom and responsive overdrive characteristics
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Hiwatt DR103
British tube amp with similar high-powered clean tone and natural overdrive when pushed, more affordable alternative
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Neumann U47
Modern FET version of the classic U47 with similar large-diaphragm response for capturing full bass cabinet range
ReverbSweetwaterAlternative to: Hiwatt DR103 overdrive character
Provides tube-style overdrive and DI capability to recreate the slightly driven edge of Entwistle's bi-amped setup
ReverbSweetwaterFrequently Asked Questions
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