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The Kickback’s unique Shape control enables the sound of your bass instrument to be
enhanced at the touch of a button. When the front panel Shape switch is pressed in, a
special equalization curve is activated that is designed to enhance the sound of most
electric bass instruments. This curve provides moderate boost at certain frequency areas
and deep attenuation at other frequency areas. Furthermore, the Shape control adds a
filter to a selected frequency area within the Shape curve. As the Shape knob is turned
clockwise, the filter is applied to higher frequency areas; as it is turned counterclockwise,
the filter is applied to lower frequency areas.
Even when Shape is activated, the front-panel EQ controls remain operational. When all
three EQ controls are set to their “0” (flat) position, they add no boost or attenuation to
the preset Shape curve. However, when any EQ controls are turned left or right of their 12
o’clock (“0”) position, their boost or attenuation effect is layered upon the preset Shape
curve. In this way, you can customize the sound of the Kickback amplifier further still to
complement your particular bass instrument and playing style.
Note that, when the Shape switch is out, the EQ controls operate on the “flat” signal
coming from your bass (that is, there is no preset equalization curve imposed).
The specific EQ you will apply to your bass signal is very much dependent upon your par-
ticular instrument and personal taste and playing style. However, here are a few general
suggestions:
Modern Rock
Classic Rock
Vintage Deep Bass
As you experiment with the EQ and Shape controls of the Kickback Series, don’t forget
that your bass also provides significant EQ control in the form of its pickup and tonal set-
tings. This can be particularly effective in instruments that have active circuitry.
The Shape Control
