Simple method for a good direct bass tone when doing your own sound?

I believe in a 'less is more' approach.
It seems like players often care more about chasing a perfect tone than an audience being able to actually hear any notes being played.
In a live situation prioritize clarity. Wait until the studio to get fancy with the knobs.
I try to get my part to sound good 'bone dry' before making embellishments.
So my foolproof method is: Volume up> Tone up> DI.
If that doesn't create a decent starting point, the problem may be elsewhere.
100%!