Easy as YYZ

August 12, 2007 3:35 PM

Any recommendations for a computer program that will make learning and/or transcribing complex basslines easier? I would like to find a simple way to slow down an audio track and isolate the bass guitar sound.

I've tried the truly horrible "Amazing Slow-Downer," and am wary to try another program until I know that it works!

posted by freshwater_pr0n to Computers & Internet (6 answers total)

I've tried The Amazing Slow Downer (Win & Mac) before, but found it too distracting to do me much good. I use the 31-band graphic E.Q. in Garage Band (Mac only) to try to tune out the guitars sometimes, and have met with varying degrees of success. I've also found being able to create short playback loops of particular passages in GB to be helpful. I've never tried the two programs in conjunction, though.
posted by Devils Rancher at 4:14 PM on August 12, 2007

Oh, hey, I didn't read the "more inside" at all, despite previewing. Consider me an idoit if you must.
posted by Devils Rancher at 4:15 PM on August 12, 2007

Try an audio slicer, like the Fruity Slicer in FLStudio, or the Dr. Rex in reason.
posted by tehloki at 8:36 PM on August 12, 2007

Best answer: As a bass player myself, I'm a big fan of Transcribe. It will slow down, change pitch, and isolate a particular section (and a lot more). Check it out.
posted by jpmack at 10:35 PM on August 12, 2007 [2 favorites]

*If* you decided that software wasn't the way to go...

The Tascam MP GT1 may have the functionality you are after...
posted by SpacemanRed at 6:05 AM on August 13, 2007

I've heard of bass players actually speeding up lines in order to learn them easier. I assume that maybe the higher pitch makes it easier to hear?

Seemed crazy to me when I first heard it and, in fact, still does.
posted by MrHappyGoLucky at 4:55 PM on August 13, 2007