What is Tight Bass?

Tight bass is an audiophile term that I never heard used in all my years working as a musician or in the studios. I think audiophiles use it to mean that you can differentiate the pitches of the bass instrument as opposed to a general rumble of low notes. Keep in mind that many people prefer the general rumble, as in car radios and juke boxes.  Gives the sound a comfortable cushion and warmth that is pleasing to the ear. 

tight bass implies good control and damping which implies a good match between amplifier and speaker

I usually think of tight bass as a quality of rock and roll music.  Meaning impactful, and realistic to the kick drum in particular.

GOOD bass however is broader than rock'n'roll.  This is bass that is:

• Balanced with the midrange and treble
• Uncompressed
• Low distortion
• Lacking in noticeable room modes