String retainer on a MIM Jazz bass

[Kevinh]

I am about to get my MIM Jazz Bass V setup (with a leo quan V) and I was wondering if I put a full length string retainer on there if would help improve the way the bass plays. I know basically what it does but if someone could shed some light on wether or not I need it and if it will help me I would love it. I also wanted to know if there is anything else I can do to improve the playabilty of the bass other then the bridge and setup. Thanks guys!

p.s. I already have the electronics taken care of and just wanting to see if there are other goodies to add.

[sjb64]

A full length string retainer won't do much to help playability on your bass. A good set-up and new strings will do a lot though. I use Ernie Ball #2824 or D'Addario EXL220-5 sets on my Deluxe V J-Bass and they both fit the bass well and sound good. Many strings out there (as well as full length string retainers) won't work on these basses because the B string machine head is so close to the nut.

Hipshot makes a quick-release 3 string retainer that's really nice; it comes standard on the American made Fender Deluxe basses and Roscoe Beck V. Consider upgrading to one of these. It's an exact replacement and uses the same holes.

I think that it's a great idea to replace the bridge too. The bridge that comes on your bass has 17mm string spacing and it's too narrow for the pickups. There is a "Economy 5 String Jazz Bass Bridge" with 18mm spacing that's great for the Deluxe V. I really notice a big difference with the slightly wider string spacing and find it more playable. You should check it out.

A Badass bridge will cost much more to buy and install (since the saddles have to be slotted). I'd stay away from it.

These parts are available at basspartsresource.com

Hipshot string retainer Item #405200C $10.79

Chrome Economy 5 string Jazz Bass Bridge Item #BB 3440-010 $21.99

What kind of electronic upgrades did you do? I have Norstrand single coils, Aguilar OBP-2 preamp, and upgraded sheilding.

These upgrades create a sort of "workingman's Sadowsky" for much less $$$. My bass weighs only 9.5 lbs. plays, and sounds awesome!

[Kevinh]

I already got my leo quan so no going back now lol. And I am having it installed with a great setup and new strings as well.

For the electronics I have Dimarzio Ultra J's, total shielding, and an Audere JZ3 waiting to be installed friday night when I get off work :-).