Mobay45
Well-known member
Can someone tell me the purpose of string mutes? I've noticed that some of the older MM basses have them. I even saw a set for sale on E-bay.
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String mutes?
- Thread starter Mobay45
- Start date
Aussie Mark
Well-known member
The original concept of string mutes was to replicate the sound and feel of an upright bass, which don't have the resonance and sustain of an electric bass.
Mobay45
Well-known member
Thanks Mark,
I had just never run across them until I started paying attention to MM basses.
I had just never run across them until I started paying attention to MM basses.
Aussie Mark
Well-known member
Mutes are very uncommon these days, since you can simulate muting pretty well using heavy compression and a limiter, so I guess electronics have replaced traditional string mutes in many scenarios. As well as MM and early EB Stingrays, you'll find an adjustable mute assembly on the bridges of Ric 4001's. Also, foam mutes can be found inside the bridge covers on some Gibson EB basses and Fender Jazz basses. I believe you can also purchase a retrofit mute device that will fit most brands of basses.
If you want to see a DIY mute in action, if you rent the video/DVD "Standing in the Shadows of Motown" and watch closely, you'll see Bob Babbitt with a largish piece of foam under his strings near the bridge of his Precision.
Rod Trussbroken
Moderator
The effect of the mutes is staggering...I was at a dinner in a large hotel some time ago....ummmm....I was staggering too ( according to wifey 
). I'd heard a small jazz band and decided to go check out the Double Bass....an early EB Sabre Bass!!! using mutes!
). I'd heard a small jazz band and decided to go check out the Double Bass....an early EB Sabre Bass!!! using mutes!
I remember Psyhic Pet said he put some foam under the saddles of his bass to imitate the mutes and reported a great sound. Haha. I'm trying that out right now. 
Edit: Unsuccessfully. This project is for some other time.
Edit: Unsuccessfully. This project is for some other time.
Last edited:
On Sunday evening I was assembling my daughters bicycle for her birthday when I came across some foam packing strips and I thought "hang on they look just the right size - that gives me an idea".
Shoved one up near the bridge and Hey Presto, a tighter more controlled sound, especially when slapping.
Not sure about the "Barbie Pink" colour of the foam against my black Ray though!
Liam
Shoved one up near the bridge and Hey Presto, a tighter more controlled sound, especially when slapping.
Not sure about the "Barbie Pink" colour of the foam against my black Ray though!
Liam
