Back with number two in the series of quick mixing tips!  Today we’re gonna have a little talk about the ooooole bass guitar.  Now those of you who have been following this blog for a while know that I freaking love distortion.  On just about everything. If you haven’t been following…why not?!  Do that now by clicking here and popping your e-mail in the box on the right and get notified when there’s a new blog post.

When it comes to the glorious bass guitar, I distort 99% of every bass I mix.  Seriously.  And 98% of the time, it’s with Sansamp. Today’s mixing tip will be the easiest of them all…ready?:

If you’re mixing rock, metal, punk, hardcore or anything of the sort: Distort your bass!

It’s such an easy way to instantly give your bass some “cut”.  Hear a before and after:

Bass Distortion Settings. Your mileage may vary.

Bam!  In yer face!  Now of course, this is pretty distorted.  It’s a metal song and needed it.  You can be a bit more tasteful with the drive/pre-amp knobs and still get some cut without going full Mesa Boogie all over your bass.  Easy.

Now go try it out!

Hear this bass in context: