BassCleanClean
Xanadu (Remastered 2013) Bass Tone Settings — Rush
Rush · 1970s · prog
studio
Original Recording
A reconstruction of the bass tone. Gear attributions and estimated settings are explained in the research notes below.
Bass
Rickenbacker 4001
Pickups
Dual single-coil pickups (neck and bridge)
Amp
Ampeg V-4B
Pickup Position
Both pickups balanced (bridge slightly favored for clarity)
Studio recording, 1977 (A Farewell to Kings sessions, remastered 2013); Geddy Lee used Rickenbacker 4001 into Ampeg V-4B; Taurus bass pedals used for synth bass, but not for main clean bass line.
Amp Settings
Suggested starting points on a 0–10 scale, not documented studio knob positions. Match to your gear for controls specific to your setup.
Mids6.5
Bass6
Gain0
Treble6.5
Presence5
compression4.5
Effects Chain
Rickenbacker 4001 → RCA BA6A compressor (studio outboard) → Ampeg V-4B (amp-mic'd, possible DI blend)
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Tone Character
- bright and articulate
- piano-like clarity
- tight low end
- slightly scooped mids
- crisp attack
- no audible drive or grit
- fast transient response
- distinct note separation
- airy top end
- full-bodied but not boomy
Playing Technique
- fingerstyle
Sources
Tone Story / Why This Tone Works
studio