Another "low action" question.

ericmknight1906 · #1 11-06-2009, 01:04 PM

Has anyone ever heard of tuning a note higher in order to decrease string vibration and thus, allowing to have lower action. In theory it sounds like it makes sense.

Instead of BEADG, I'm considering CFBEA.

Any thoughts? Anyone ever tried it? I'm frustrated and desperate for low action and I'm really prepared to take drastic measures...Thanks

And my version of low action is 2mm or less down the entire fretboard

CapnSev · #2 11-06-2009, 01:06 PM

I would just snag a set of strings with really high tension instead of tuning up that much.

FunkMetalBass · #3 11-06-2009, 01:09 PM

I've never tried it, but I imagine it would work just fine, provided you don't play very aggressively and your neck can withstand that kind of tension.

::::BASSIST:::: · #4 11-06-2009, 01:13 PM

I was getting tired of the crappy action on SX shortscale P bass. I made two shims out of a cereal box (raisin bran to be exact). The two layers of cereal box worked brilliantly. I find these shortscale basses really need a high mass bridge to get retain focus. I use the BA II but found my action suffered because of it.

Things you need for low action:

A bass with professional dressed frets
higher tensions strings
the correct balance of truss rod adjustment (meaning a straight neck with slight bow in it) and bridge saddle height.

Shim if needed.
A truckload of patience.

It also certainly helps if you have a well made bass, but I attained fairly low action with my SX so it is possible with cheaper basses. Most important that it has a good fret dressing (as mine does).

Personally changing the tuning of the strings is not a route I'd take.

An alternative idea that I employed for a couple years was to use a capo on the second fret, use high tension strings and tune to standard pitch. That gave me crazy low action.

Zooberwerx · #5 11-07-2009, 06:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CapnSev

I would just snag a set of strings with really high tension instead of tuning up that much.

I was thinking the same thing....maybe a set of 50 - 130/135's or the like. The OP may want to weigh in other considerations like core type: hex vs. round. One provides a stiffer feel although I can't recall which at the moment.

Riis