Does anyone know how Tracy Pew made his bass sound so unique?

I know he used a Fender Jazz Bass a lot, as well as a couple Rickenbackers. No idea on amps or effects, although I don't think Tracy ever used effects. I think he used a pick; I believe that kind of scratchy sound comes a lot easier with a pick than with fingers, although I don't know for sure, of course.

I've been listening to The Birthday Party a lot recently, so any facts about amps/settings/playing style would be helpful, because I play bass a little and I would like to know how to get that sound someday.

I recall that the amp was an Ampeg SVT.

My guess is that he used one with a pre-gain stage. I have a few friends that can get that tone by adding a little drive. I've heard similar tones come out of solid state amps too if they have a pre-gain.

I suppose an overdrive pedal could get you close if your amp only has one volume control.

And you're right, I've only seen him play Jazz basses or Ricks. Those certianly have their differences in tone, but the sound he was getting out of them was very similar.

-A

mainly a jazz bass.

i've seen some acoustic amp in the dvd as well as an svt. no idea the cab.

get some DR hi-beams and put 'em on a jazz bass. crank the treble.

i'dstart by getting a white cowboy hat and a string vest.

Pew.