Piezo option and tone

[LoEnd]

I was wondering if anyone could tell me about the piezo option on Bongo basses. Is it a dramatic change in tone, or is it just kinda noticable? What are the pros, cons?

Oh just want to say that I am new here and I LOVE my Bongo 5-string HH(stealth black). It's the best tone that I have ever had out of a bass. Way better than my Warwick.

-Fletch

 

[tegzsa]

It's noticable all right. Adds quite a bit more mid bite when blended with the bridge pickup for a very "growly" tone, especially if you back off the bass a little. It tames the subsonic boom from the neck pickup, and sounds really nice with a touch more treble and high mid.

Cons - there's that piezo "plasticky" tone that doesn't always sound so hot (but, hey, you can always turn it off). I'm also not sure if the saddles will lower as much as standard ones as they seem quite a bit deeper.

 

[LoEnd]

Thanks for the reply, I have MM building me another Bongo (5-string Lava pearl HH piezo). I can't wait to start rockin with that thing.

 

[Alvabass]

Download this file with several sound samples taken from my fretted Bongo and you'll notice the differences.

 

[AnthonyD]

Piezo Is A Must-Have Option In My Book!

All of my Bongos go Piezo!

There are two distinct characteristics the the piezo brings to the table when blended with the magnetic pick-ups:

1. A presence/clarity/edge to the tone

2. A percussive thump

Tough to sample, but if you can find on to check-out you'll know what I mean. Solo'd, it has it's own unique voice.

Also, my set-up is very low on all three basses - especially the fretless - the saddles can go as low as you could possible want.

 

[LoEnd]

Awesome, you guys have been very helpful. You all have made my decision to go with the peizo option very easy.

 

[nicolasd]

i love having the piezo on my bongo 5 with an H and S insane range of tone, and you can always turn off the piezo.

 

[bassborja]

The piezo is an excellent tool. In my own experience I have found that with only the piezo it is not very helpful playing with a band, because his lack of bass an bass mid makes you get lost with the other instruments. But mixed with the magnetic pickup you get a very sharp tone different from the classical MusicMan tone.

 

[LoEnd]

Nice, that is one thing that I have learned about the MM basses. I always seem to be able to cut through the mix. Even with the tone monster guitar player that I play with. I can't wait to start rockin the piezo!