string action - how low is low?

[redname]

hi,
been learning how to some setting up.

i realize it's really hard to get those real low action.

whether it's fretted or fretless, when i set it low, the strings can't vibrate normally beyond the 12th fret on the lowest string

what am i doing wrong?

[bunnykeeper]

Keep in mind that there are lots of factors involved besides saddle height. You've got neck relief, playing style, string gauge, nut depth, and so on. But sometimes you have to make sacrifices. I sacrifice a certain amount of playability on the high frets for low action on the low frets. The only thing I do on the E way up there is start a "BUUUuuuw" slide.

[john grey]

Originally Posted by bunnykeeper

Keep in mind that there are lots of factors involved besides saddle height. You've got neck relief, playing style, string gauge, nut depth, and so on. But sometimes you have to make sacrifices. I sacrifice a certain amount of playability on the high frets for low action on the low frets. The only thing I do on the E way up there is start a "BUUUuuuw" slide.

I agree with this very much.
It might be productive to lower the action in one fashion and play the instrument for awhile and then make another adjustment depending upon how you play and what you want to achieve.
If you slap a great deal the strings will vibrate in a slightly different fashion than if you play with a pick or fingers, etc.
Setups can often vary a great deal depending upon what style of playing you intend. However if you have a singular bass that is where you may have to compromise to encompass more than one method. If you think about this it makes sense. Slapping will often vibrate the string in a "bounce" while finger-style will vibrate the strings in another manner. Playing with a pick is often very challenging as the pick can reach under the string or across it. A setup is a very individuated issue; one method will not achieve every type of playing as some sacrifices will often have to be made. Where as if you have two instruments you might achieve a great deal closer to an "ideal" height and design.

[darkstorm]

Start with the truss rod. Get neck straight or very nearly so. Then and only then do you start doing bridge saddle adjustments. Getting great low action depends on several factors. Some mfg arent building their basses for l,ow action. These can sometimes be fixed with fretjob, neck shim, and patience. But its generally better to get basses made by mfg who orient toward players whom like low action. Unfretted, you should be able to get string clearance at 12th fret for low E sttring to less then 2 millimeters above the fret.