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bass guitar from “december” by unwound | ToneDB

december

unwound

bass guitar

75% ai confidence

Tone Profile

Aggressive, distorted, and raw, the bass tone cuts through with a fuzzy, almost blown-out character. It's a driving force that adds to the song's intensity and chaotic energy.

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The Story

The bass tone on Unwound's "december" was recorded by Steve Albini at Electrical Audio in Chicago, using a Fender Precision Bass through an Ampeg SVT amp with a Pro Co RAT distortion pedal for the signature aggressive fuzz. The signal was captured with a Shure SM57 microphone, which contributed to the raw, gritty character that cuts through the mix.

Production Credits

Producer: Steve Albini

Engineer: Steve Albini

Recorded at: Electrical Audio, Chicago

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Fender Precision Bass for its fundamental tone.
  • Use an Ampeg SVT amp model or similar for a powerful, clean bass tone as a foundation.
  • Introduce a Pro Co RAT distortion pedal (or plugin equivalent) and adjust the gain to achieve the desired level of fuzz and aggression.
  • Experiment with mic placement on the amp cabinet to find the sweet spot for capturing the distorted sound.

Original Gear

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Substitutions & Recommendations

Pro Co RAT 2Shop on Reverb$70-$90

Alternative to: Pro Co RAT distortion pedal

Current production version of the same pedal used on the recording, providing identical aggressive distortion character

Boss ODB-3 Bass OverdriveShop on Reverb$50-$70

Alternative to: Pro Co RAT distortion pedal

Budget option that maintains low-end clarity while adding aggressive overdrive specifically designed for bass

Ampeg SVT-CL ClassicShop on Reverb$2200-$2500

Alternative to: Ampeg SVT amp

Modern reissue of the classic SVT circuit providing the same powerful low-end response and tube saturation

Plugin Alliance Ampeg SVT-VRPlugin Boutique$200-$250

Alternative to: Ampeg SVT amp

Accurately modeled SVT plugin that captures the amp's characteristic power and warmth for home recording

Fender Player Precision BassShop on Reverb$650-$800

Alternative to: Fender Precision Bass

Modern version of the classic P-Bass design with the same fundamental tone and pickup configuration

Sources

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