the e string that is always dead

[Jart!]

So, i tried doing a search on this, and coudln't really see anything that would help me. thought i'd throw a post up.

I have a warwick streamer standard (the german one, made a few years before the rockbass line came out). It's a great bass, but it has had a problem that i have been completely unable to solve; the E string is always dead as a doornail no matter what I do.

the things i've tried include: many many string changes (except taperwounds, which i might try next), pickup change, getting sharp angles over the nut and bridge saddles, etc...

the bridge looks exactly like a gotoh 201, but with the screw holes in different spots. i've considered changing it out but i'm not really sure how much a BAII would improve things? they're both basically the same thing.

a luthier told me (without looking at the bass at all) to have it modified to load the strings through the body instead of on the bridge.... sounds like alot of work that's very likely not to affect anything. this luthier said it would give a sharper angle over the bridge saddle, but i REALLY dont think that's the issue here unless TOO sharp an angle can be a problem.

i would just take it to someone, to poke around with, but i dont trust any of the people around here to not run up a big bill with no positive effect in the end. i've been pretty successful dealing with other mods on other basses thanks to the awesome ol' internet so hopefully someone can give me the magic solution!

[bassforce]

I had the same problem with my MIM Jazz. Sounded great with Thomastik Flats, but with any rounds the E string was always dead.
I think the main problem was the bridge and the nut. You should contact Warwick and ask them for help.

[slagbass]

Check out the strings FAQ thread:

STRINGS FAQ + RULES: READ THIS FIRST BEFORE POSTING!!!

for "how to install strings". They make a point about how having not enough wraps on the post can cause a string to sound dead. Also, make sure the point where the string meets the tuning post is as low as possible on the tuning post. Finally, make sure the string has not been twisted during installation - this has caught me a couple of times.

Not sure if this will help, but you should make sure you have tried the easy stuff before getting your local luthier involved.

[Jart!]

i've tried flats (GHS precision) and it's the same issue

my string winding technique is pretty textbook, three clean wraps around the post and whatnot. i've not had this problem with any other bass, but i think i may take the string off and reload it and be extra careful just incase.

thanks and keep 'em comming!

[ByF]

Does it sound dead only when you play through an amp, or does it also sound dead "acoustically?" Like, stick your ear on the upper horn while you play unplugged, so you hear the string through the wood.

It doesn't sound like a string problem, if it is always present through many string changes. Anyhow, Warwick's have angled-back headstocks, so they are less susceptible to having too few windings on the peg.

Ed

[dmusic148]

Tune the E string to F# or G. See if this improves the tone. If it does, a heavier string will help. Try a set with a .110 E string. Fender sells a set with a taperwound .110 which I like very much.

[PrivateHigh]

Try reseating the neck in the pocket. Loosen the screws in X pattern and retighten the bolts in reverse. Have you checked the break angles on the nut and the bridge?

[GeoffByrne]

I suspect the nut slot may need recut.