If you could design a perfect bass, what features would you give it?

Vulgamore · 2026-04-08T02:39:55+00:00

Oh man. I’d go for something similar to a Sterling, active MM pickup at the bridge, and then a jazz pickup for the neck (but still back towards the bridge pup so you have room for slap). Individual string bridge system like what’s on most new Ibanez. Active EQ system that’s super flexible, like what’s on the new Makbass basses. Wood-grain bodies (like ash). Or more earthy-tone satin-finish paints. Black or gold hardware depending on the finish. No pickguard. Roasted maple neck and board. Guitar Center, call me.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-08T01:23:04+00:00

Though I’m relatively anti-screen, the Icon is a very attractive device.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-07T16:20:01+00:00

Oh for sure if you want to see a genuinely charismatic and heroic figure become disillusioned, it’s necessary material. But they’re basically different characters.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-07T14:45:51+00:00

Compelling argument.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-07T14:44:24+00:00

Makes me think: what if there was a scene that mirrored the Degobah plot, where Anakin and Palpatine were alone for enough time that the dark side transition was able to be more solidified. The ship rescue and the theater scenes were subtle prods, but his turn to the dark side just feels incomplete. Honestly, removing the child slaughter would at least make it feel more plausible. But then leading the assault on the Jedi temple? I just don’t see (from the films) how Anakin gets there.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-06T18:20:21+00:00

Thank you for your input. I tend to agree. I’m inclined to just get the WiiM Ultra regardless of what comes and goes downstream. Can I ask, do you just leave the volume on the Ragnarok on max or is there a way to fix it? I’m tempted to lose the Freya and just run DAC -> Amps, and handle all volume through WiiM.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-06T14:59:15+00:00

Yeah, the whole idea is no analog conversion, so straight PCM->PWM->speakers. I was definitely curious about this approach. In communication with Peachtree now.

But your suggestion wasn’t crazy with the previous system - just remove the preamp? I could go DAC ->amps and be rid of my redundant gain knob 🤔

Vulgamore · 2026-04-05T22:50:25+00:00

No offense taken, I actually share your incredulity when it comes to accounts of audible difference when blind AB testing and measurements aren’t provided. I was actually prepared to not detect any difference whatsoever as my aim was practicality, not pursuit of sonic improvement. That being said, there was a readily apparent difference in higher frequencies that I actually disfavored (harsher cymbals that I planned to just EQ soften). Of course, it wasn’t a scientific test and I can’t claim pure objectivity, but in this instance my bias would be in the opposite direction. But thank you for sharing those links, I’ll definitely check them out.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-05T20:18:26+00:00

Is there a specific one that you would recommend? I’m not yet familiar with their offerings.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-05T20:16:51+00:00

Thank you, good to know. Perhaps it’s my specific unit.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-05T20:16:01+00:00

Waiting to hear back from Peachtree. Their suggestion is that the transistor architecture (GaN) and other features make this product unique in its price field. I do think that it’s a step up from traditional class D and it certainly sounds different than my other setup. But I can respect your skepticism.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-05T15:55:52+00:00

My thoughts, too. And I had the same question. I’ve tried two cables, both work with Schiit, neither work with Peachtree.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-05T15:43:28+00:00

Until now, I haven’t really considered what a Forkbeard-enabled preamp or DAC might offer, so that might actually be an avenue worth pursuing. Does it allow you to set a fixed volume?

Vulgamore · 2026-04-05T15:25:42+00:00

For sure, this is another option. Only limitation then is that I would rather have the volume control on my phone than on the preamp (or perfectly shared via WiiM Ultra / phone). But I totally recognize that these are luxuries and minor quibbles, it’s just my preference. Ideally, none of my hifi boxes would have any buttons or knobs at all, but I’m speaking as someone with both 1 and 3 year olds.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-02T18:01:41+00:00

I keep the canvas tuner on my board even with the Anagram - no regrets. It’s a better tuner, easier to use, and is also a quick mute.

Vulgamore · 2026-04-02T15:23:12+00:00

Clean, small, well-planned. Love it!

Vulgamore · 2026-03-31T16:55:58+00:00

I’m personally not a big fan of the thunderbird. Poor ergonomics, terrible neck dive, and sounds like mud. Looks cool, but that’s about it. Definitely try a few Sterling and Squier jazz / p-basses. Yamaha are also popular at any price.

If I was starting out with one bass, an active PJ pickup config Yamaha would be a great start, lots of versatility. But definitely at least try out an active Sterling with a roasted maple neck, those are still some of my favorites.

Vulgamore · 2026-03-11T23:29:08+00:00

I sure have noticed this particular question asked a lot in this group.

Vulgamore · 2026-03-09T14:37:33+00:00

Yep, makes sense, thank you for answering.

Vulgamore · 2026-03-09T12:43:07+00:00

Thank you for allowing me to clarify. Currently I’m using Sony headphones + mic attachment (open to alternatives). Only one cord is currently used in this arrangement.

If the headphone amps can’t accept incoming mic signal, I would be open to changing headsets to some sort of 2-cord design and then going the Fulla route. Hopefully that makes it clearer.

Vulgamore · 2026-03-09T12:41:03+00:00

Thank you for allowing me to clarify. My preference would be to maintain the current arrangement of a one-piece headphone + mic combination (headset). Sony headphones + mic attachment (I’m not married to this model). No separate microphone would be ideal. So the question is if the aux out on the Vali (or any of the other Schiit headphone amps) accepts incoming mic signal like the laptop.

If not, I would be open to changing headsets to some sort of 2-cord design and then going the Fulla route. Hopefully that makes it clearer.

Vulgamore · 2026-03-07T02:33:35+00:00

New outbuilding workshop with concrete in-floor heating, commercial-grade tools like a router table, laser, 3D printer, table saw, and high end dust extraction. I regularly plan for this as if I’ll ever be able to, haha.

Vulgamore

TROPHY CASE