How do I line out my JC-40 for live gigs?

General
1

I know this might seem like a dumb question, but I’m primarily a bassist. My amp has a direct XLR out, and I noticed my JC-40 has a 1/4" jack for line out. Do I need to buy a DI box if I want to use a venue’s PA? Do most venues usually have one available?

2

You’re better off micing the amp. The venue should be ready for that, especially if they’re providing the PA and engineer.

3

Ash said:
You’re better off micing the amp. The venue should be ready for that, especially if they’re providing the PA and engineer.

Is micing the amp better for tone?

4

Shae said:

Ash said:
You’re better off micing the amp. The venue should be ready for that, especially if they’re providing the PA and engineer.

Is micing the amp better for tone?

Yes, much better. The speaker plays a big role in your amp’s tone, so that’s what you want to capture. In all my 35+ years of playing live, I’ve never seen anyone use a DI out from a guitar amp. Micing is the standard way to go, and it’s how it’s usually done.

5

@Ash
Thanks for the tip!

6

Shae said:

Ash said:
You’re better off micing the amp. The venue should be ready for that, especially if they’re providing the PA and engineer.

Is micing the amp better for tone?

I’m a sound engineer and touring bassist. Sadly, most people want to DI bass these days. My XLR out has ground issues, so I use a 1/4" to a cheap guitar center DI or my Sansamp before the amp output. I prefer micing, but many sound engineers aren’t always ready to mic bass, though they’ll do it if asked. The mic they use might not be the best for low-end. It’s a good idea to bring your own mics. 57s are common but better for guitar. A D112 or Beta 52 is preferred for low-end. In the studio, we use both a D112 and a 57 for a full range, but that would be overkill for live. I also suggest bringing a preamp like a Sansamp. It can act as a backup amp or as a main amp if you don’t want to bring yours, and it works well for front-of-house sound too.

7

Great amp! I’ve been thinking about getting one myself.

8

You can go from your line out to the board. Just get a 1/4" to XLR (or two if you want stereo).

9

Two Shure SM57s in parallel :wink: You can upgrade mics later, but start with those.