In modern metal productions, the use of virtual instruments and digital audio workstations (DAWs) have become increasingly prevalent. One area where this is particularly evident is in the use of virtual bass libraries to replace the need for a real bassist. With the rise of technology and software, MIDI bass libraries have become more sophisticated and can now produce sounds that can rival those of a real bassist. But does this mean that virtual bass libraries will replace real bassists altogether? 

In this article, we'll explore the benefits and drawbacks of using MIDI bass and discuss whether it can actually replace a real bassist. We'll also touch on using MIDI bass in live settings as well as a studio or writing setting.

Benefits of Using MIDI Bass 

One of the biggest advantages of using MIDI bass is the flexibility it provides in sound design and editing. MIDI bass can be easily tweaked and manipulated within a DAW, allowing producers to experiment with different tones and effects without having to re-record a real bassist. Also, MIDI bass performances are consistent in both tone and timing, making it easier to match different parts of a song together.

MIDI bass is also a time and cost-effective solution for recording and production. With MIDI bass, there's no need to worry about scheduling a real bassist for recording sessions or paying for studio time. Instead, producers can simply plug in a MIDI controller, or open up a piano roll and start recording or programming bass parts on their own time. This can save both time and money, especially for smaller-scale productions. 

Virtual bass libraries can also provide a more consistent and reliable bass tone that can be easier to mix and manipulate than a real bassist's performance. Check out this video where MMS’s Johnny Fitzgerald shows how to get a great metalcore bass tone using Umansky Bass from Submission Audio.

NOTE: There are arguments for both MIDI bass and real bass in the context of mixing. Some producers prefer the sound of a real bassist's performance and the unique character and feel it can bring to a track. Others prefer the consistency and reliability of MIDI bass, as well as the ability to easily manipulate and edit the performance within a mix.

It's important to note that MIDI bass isn't without its limitations. Let's take a closer look at some of the disadvantages of using MIDI bass.

Disadvantages of Using MIDI Bass

Despite its many benefits, MIDI bass does have some drawbacks that should be considered. One of the biggest limitations of MIDI bass is its lack of human nuances and imperfections. Real bassists are able to add unique character and creativity to their performances through subtle variations in timing, pitch, and dynamics that are difficult to replicate with MIDI bass. 

Additionally, the feel and groove of a real bassist can be hard to reproduce with MIDI bass, which can lead to a sterile and lifeless sound.

Another limitation of MIDI bass is its limited expressiveness and dynamics. While MIDI bass can accurately capture the notes and rhythms played by a bassist, it can be difficult to capture the subtleties of a real bass performance, such as slides, bends, and vibrato. This can result in a more mechanical and robotic sound, especially if not programmed properly. However, products such as EuroBass 3 are getting really close!

Despite these limitations, there are situations where virtual bass libraries can pass as real ones, especially in metal.

Real Bass Players vs. Virtual Bass Libraries

While virtual bass libraries have come a long way in recent years, there are still some significant differences between real bass players and virtual bass libraries. Real bass players have the ability to add their own unique style and feel to a performance, which can make a big difference in the overall sound of a track. They also bring a human element to a recording, which can be hard to replicate with virtual instruments.

However, virtual bass libraries have made significant strides in recent years and can now produce sounds that are nearly indistinguishable from a real bassist in the context of a mix. This is particularly true in metal, where the sound of the bass is often distorted and compressed to fit as an extension of the guitar sound so that they make one full tone. 

MIDI Bass in Live Settings

MIDI bass can be a great option for both live settings and studio/writing environments. In live settings, MIDI bass can be used with a computer and a MIDI controller to produce a consistent and reliable bass sound when a bassist isn’t present. It is common for metalcore bands to not have a bassist live. Some recent examples include Northlane on their most recent tour with Fit For a King, Like Moths to Flames on their last tour with Alpha Wolf, and many others. Sometimes it’s just easier to have the laptop play bass than pay someone to tour. (It should be noted that many times, this happens due to member changes happening on short notice. Also, these bands did not necessarily use MIDI bass as a bass DI would also suffice.)

Typically what a band will do is have a laptop that runs backing tracks and just have the bass ran out of the computer to front of house on its own channel. This way, the bass will be treated by the FOH engineer in a similar manner as any other direct input signal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while virtual bass libraries and MIDI bass have come a long way, they still cannot completely replace the unique character and feel of a real bassist's performance. Real bass players have the ability to add their own style and human touch to a recording, making a significant difference in the overall sound of a track. However, virtual bass libraries have made significant strides in recent years and can now produce sounds that are nearly indistinguishable from a real bassist. They provide a more consistent and reliable bass tone that can be easier to mix and manipulate than a real bassist's performance in some contexts.

Ultimately, whether to use MIDI bass or a real bassist will depend on the specific needs and goals of your recording or production. However, with the advancements in virtual bass libraries and MIDI technology, both options are worth considering and experimenting with in your music-making process.