bass guitar from “national anthem” by radiohead | ToneDB
national anthem
radiohead
bass guitar
Tone Profile
A gritty, overdriven bass tone with a clear fundamental and aggressive upper-midrange bite. It's punchy and present, cutting through the mix with a raw, almost fuzz-like character.
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The Story
The bass tone on Radiohead's "The National Anthem" was achieved using a Fender Jazz Bass run through a Pro Co RAT distortion pedal into an Ampeg SVT amplifier. Producer Nigel Godrich captured the sound using a combination of direct input and a mic'd amplifier, with the RAT pedal providing the signature aggressive overdrive and harmonic distortion that gives the bass its gritty, almost fuzz-like character.
Production Credits
Producer: Nigel Godrich
Engineer: Unknown
Recorded at: Unknown
Signal Chain
Instrument: Fender Jazz BassShop on Reverb
Microphone: Neumann U47Shop on Reverb
Processing: Pro Co RATShop on Reverb
Recreation Tips
- Start with a Fender Jazz Bass or similar instrument with a bright, articulate tone.
- Use an Ampeg SVT or similar bass amp known for its punch and low-end response.
- Introduce a Pro Co RAT or similar distortion pedal to achieve the aggressive overdrive. Adjust the gain to taste.
- Experiment with microphone placement on the amp cabinet to capture the desired balance of direct and ambient sound.
- Apply compression to even out the dynamics and enhance the sustain.
- Consider using a blend of direct input and mic'd amp signals for added flexibility and control.
Original Gear
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Substitutions & Recommendations
Alternative to: Pro Co RAT distortion pedal
The current production version of the original RAT used on the track, delivering the same aggressive overdrive and harmonic saturation
Alternative to: Pro Co RAT distortion pedal
Contains multiple RAT circuits including vintage versions, offering more tonal flexibility while maintaining that classic RAT aggression
Alternative to: Ampeg SVT amplifier
Current production all-tube SVT head that delivers the same punchy low-end response and midrange bite as the original
Alternative to: Ampeg SVT amplifier
Solid-state alternative that captures much of the SVT's punch and character at a more accessible price point
Alternative to: Fender Jazz Bass
Current production Jazz Bass with the bright, articulate pickup configuration needed for this aggressive tone
Alternative to: Pro Co RAT distortion pedal
Digital plugin that includes RAT-style distortion models perfect for recreating this overdriven bass tone in the box
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