How do you find a good setup tech?

Skel · #1 03-01-2006, 09:43 AM

I'm sure this has been beat to death, so I apologize in advance.

How can somebody non-technical like myself find a setup person who is good? I have *no* problem finding really bad ones. Is there some certification or something that is recognized? I realize word of mouth is good, but I don't talk to any other bassists. I'm looking for something like a list of 6 questions to ask the tech before I entrust them with my instrument. Also, it would be helpful to understand how much one would expect to pay a good tech. For now, after reading a few posts, and realizing that every bass I get, new or otherwise, needs to be properly set up, I'm interested in what the fair price is for a professional set up.

Thanks - Skel

mariner · #2 03-01-2006, 09:49 AM

I'm not an expert on finding the right people, but I imagine if you find a shop where the tech proudly displays his luthier degree or certification, you might be in the right place.

Anyone that advertises themselves as a luthier will probably also be fairly competent.

I knew one in Michigan when I was living there and he did both.

I do all my setups now and am probably headed down the road depicted by others where I'll have all my friends coming to me.

4x4Given · #3 03-01-2006, 10:57 AM

Become the solution. (with all due respect) Learn to do your own setups. (they aren't hard)

Skel · #4 03-01-2006, 11:57 AM

Yea - I here you and that makes sense. The really stupid thing is; until I read that you needed to have your new bass set up properly, I've never had *any* problem. I bought a new Ric 4003 from MF, and I love the way it plays. I bought a Geddy the other day from GC, and I love the way it plays. I'm getting a MIA '57 RI Precision from "the Bass Place", and it was used at the NAMM show, so I would think it's already setup. Last, my MIM precision that I bought at GC about 7 years ago plays great. It buzzes just a bit when I put new strings on, but after about 4 days it's perfect.

Skel

mariner · #5 03-01-2006, 12:22 PM

I wouldn't say that every bass you buy from a shop needs to be setup. if you bought it online, I would certainly give it a once over.

I'm a lefty and wanted a 6-string so bad, but they were never near my budget. I found Rondo and got a Brice Pretige Z. Out of the Box, it really wasn't that great. After a little effort, you wouldn't believe how many compliments I get on it's tone.

The key is, only you know how you like to have it feel. Factory specs don't always apply to everyone.

SteveC · #6 03-01-2006, 01:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 4x4Given

Become the solution. (with all due respect) Learn to do your own setups. (they aren't hard)

+1