Squire VM Fretless possible to string BEAD?

low_c · #1 03-29-2010, 12:40 PM

So there the question lies, Would it be possible to string a Squire VM Fretless Jazz to BEAD without commiting tonal suicide?

And if not, what would the proper modifications be?
Like nut adjustment, truss rod, strings, pick-ups, and ect.

I felt like giving this a shot because my new project is calling for some low notes (Low A) and my budget is not flexable enough for a new 5er.

Oh, i also have a old Squire P bass if that is ever more suitable for this modification. (its my frankinstine bass so any risks taken on it aren't very heart felt

)

Darkstrike · #2 03-29-2010, 12:47 PM

Should just need the nut slots widened, and a quick re-intonation.

I had mine in BEAD for a while, sounded good.

low_c · #3 03-29-2010, 03:05 PM

Yay

Thats a relief

Any tips on wideing the nut slots myself? It would be my first time doing that.

Or should i leave it to the shop?

Thanks.

Darkstrike · #4 03-29-2010, 03:09 PM

I used a rat tail file, go slow and you should be fine, and try not to deepen the slot, just widen it.

low_c · #5 03-29-2010, 03:15 PM

Thanks Darkstrike for being so helpful

Can't wait to get back home and get working on that switch.

Also, any suggestions on a set of strings? I would perfer a stiffer set (steel/higher gage), but im worried about excessive wear on the finger board.

Darkstrike · #6 03-29-2010, 03:20 PM

I used a set of Rotosound Jazz Flat 77's, so I'm afraid I can't help there.

tedsalt · #7 09-08-2010, 09:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by low_c

Also, any suggestions on a set of strings? I would perfer a stiffer set (steel/higher gage), but im worried about excessive wear on the finger board.

The VM fretless has an ebonol fingerboard, so roundwounds are fine.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ebonol_(material) - resistant to forming grooves from roundwound strings

I just picked up a VM fretless tonight for $150, so I'm getting ready to try this with some Rotosound Swing Bass strings (65-80-105-130).

tedsalt · #8 09-09-2010, 11:00 AM

OK, the deal is done. Went from dead flats to (too new) Rotosound Swing Bass round wounds in BEAD (65-80-105-130) for a huge improvement in tone and liveliness. It will be nice when these strings have some age on them. Right now there is almost too much mwah. Running the BDDI with the King's X setting. No change in neck relief. All I did was file the nut a little (V out the width, don't change the depth) and set intonation. It rules!!!

I will shield the electronics down the road to get rid of the hum. As long as you keep both volumes wide open the hum isn't (that) noticeable. I'm taking it to practice tonight, and I know I'll hear about that.