I'm a guitar player trying to get good bass tracks to tape (actually hard drive!)

I have a Squier P bass with EMG p/u's.

I've struggled for years going direct, mic'ing an amp and using a modeled processor.
Whatever I do, I'm unhappy with the tracks.

Recently I spent a day just recording bass tracks to see how I could improve the sound. Discovered that I was babying the instrument by playing it delicately! When I played the instument aggessively, a whole other instrument came out of the monitors! Does anybody have any tricks, recording chain/hardware/technique tips to help a lowly guitar player join the ranks of lofty intelligent bass players? ( figured a little supplication/brown nosing might help) Thanks for any input.

Rob


I used to be indecisive, now I'm not sure... My Songs