Set-up?

towsonbassist · #1 10-26-2007, 07:11 PM

I've heard alot of people talking about having their basses "Professionally Set-Up", and I was wondering:
What does this entail?
How much do set-ups run?
Where can I find a place to have my bass set up (It's an '84 G&L that I bought used. I liked the feel of the bass. If anyone ever mentions bass "vibe" "mojo" or whatever! I definitely felt it.)?
And lastly, In your opinion (which I, for the most part, highly regard for the fact that most of you are superior/older/more experienced players than I) is this worth the while?

Thanks,
-Kmcg

GassieBall · #2 10-26-2007, 07:27 PM

Are you in Towson, MD? I know a great guy in Ellicott City.

towsonbassist · #3 10-26-2007, 07:48 PM

Yes, I am.

Jabassman · #4 10-27-2007, 02:01 AM

I live near Ellicot City. Can u give me the info on the guy out there please?
Thanks

pkr2 · #5 10-27-2007, 04:09 PM

While I definitely advocate doing ones own setups, there's a lot to be said for having the first setup done by a pro. Especially a used bass.

First, unless you feel that you can DIY at a pro level, it gives you the chance to learn just how the bass feels when everything is adjusted properly. If something goes out of kilter later, you will know, since you have a reference.

A pro will spot potential problems that may be overlooked by a less skilled person, and correct them before they get worse.

If something goes wrong later, you've already established a relationship with someone that can help you. A plus is that most pros will go the extra mile for an established customer.

Be sure to mention that you are interested in learning to do your own routine maintenance. The majority of pros that I know, have no problem explaining how to do a simple setup, or restring. properly.

Enjoy the new bass.

Chasarms · #6 10-27-2007, 05:02 PM

I agree with pkr2. If you are inexperienced, I would suggest having the bass set up the first time. It's more important right now than any time that the bass is properly intonated and plays as well as possible.

To answer the questions:

Typically, a setup includes verifying that the neck relief is correct and adjusting as needed. The intonation is set properly and the action (string height) is set to your taste.

A good tech will also give the bass a complete onceover to make sure the nut is correctly fit and all the parts are properly snug and in good working order.

It is usually about $50 for the full service.

One thing that I would suggest is that you either buy a new set of strings from the tech or take along a new set. I have discovered that if you use the same string all the time, a setup will last forever. But, each time you change the kind of string you have one there, it will have to be tweaked or even re-done completely.

GassieBall · #7 10-27-2007, 05:37 PM

I agree if you can do it yourself, then by all means... However, I brought two of my basses when I first got them to a pro and I think it makes a difference. Then I tweak myself after.

My Sterling was pretty easy to setup myself, although the guy below was really able to get my Bongo just right.

On the other hand, my Fender Jazz was a total mess. Typical crappy Fender high action setup. Pickups were totally at wrong level and E string out of whack. And John Thurston made it all right

I am not affiliated with John. I just think he's a good guy.

http://local.yahoo.com/details?id=12598535

Thurston Instrument Repairs
(410) 747-0239
1701 Edmondson Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228

Chipsonfire · #8 11-01-2007, 02:27 PM

I've been playing for... 2 months or so if you count the down time due to school and have never had a setup. This is mainly due to the fact that there are no instrument repair shops within an hour of here. Is it really essential to get a setup on a new bass? I've never had a problem with mine, but I'd never even held a bass till I got my hands on this one so I wouldn't know any better. Driving up to Albuquerque for a setup is just one of those things, like driving up there to get lessons, that I wish I had time for

aquateen · #9 11-02-2007, 05:20 AM

John Thurston is the man! great guy and knows his business.

Chipsonfire · #10 11-02-2007, 02:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Joshua

Unfortunately noone can tell if it's essential without seeing the instrument (assuming you aren't able to diagnose it). If it needs some setup help, it will make a big difference to get one.

For at least a little reading and digesting, there is a sticky thread at the top of the forum about truss rods and action which contains links to a number of excellent setup guides. My preference is the Mr. Gearhead link.

Maybe do a little reading and we can start identifying if there are any issues to be taken care of on your bass...

Ok, I'll take a look at that. Thanks a bunch