Should you use a plectrum when playing the electric bass?

Answer 1

You don't have to but you can if you like. Slap is also an option.

Answer 2

It depends on what sound you want some people use plectrums some don't. If you use a plectrum you will get a heavy sharp sound when you pluck the string. If you don't use one you will get a softer humming sound. You can also play slap bass with practise which sort of incorporates the two sounds and gives a different form of control over the rhythm. I suggest you give them all a go as the best musicians are always the ones who try to master all aspects of their instrument.

Answer 3

Some bass players use a plectrum (which we call a "pick" in the US) and some don't. It's up to you. If your playing style irritates your fingers, try it with a plectrum.

Answer 4

it's really a matter of preference. i use one because my fingers are not nimble enough to play without one. if you do use a plectrum you might want to turn up the bass on your amplifier and give it a little less treble as the plectrum will tend to add a bit more treble than your finger. good luck.

Answer 5

no....bass players need to use their fingers....when a bassist uses a pick it's pure laziness. if i see a band where the bassist uses a pick it's an instant turn off.

be a real bassist like..john myung ( dream theater), trey gunn( king crimson), tony levin ( peter gabriel), michael manring , and of course stu Hamm .

these bassists nowadays have no idea how to play with fingers, plus they are affraid to hurt their precious fingers...emo sucks

Answer 6

All a matter of personal choice. Perter Hook (New Order) uses a pick, and it gives a slightly 'harder' sound whereas jazz players generally don't, and the sound is mellower. OTY.

Answer 7

my mate plays guitar( or so he thinks) i think he uses a shovel

Answer 8

Certainly, if you need to.

Answer 9

No for jazz or country, yes for vintage punk rock, and please yourself for other genres.

Answer 10

yeah i think so