Strings at different volumes!

[Zangetsu]

Recently got my bass setup by a local guitar tech, when I got it back all the strings were buzzing and the neck looked like a boomarang. I brought it back to the guy the next day, he spent 10 mins adjusting the neck and left it at that.

Everything is perfect now exept for the fact that my A.D.G. strings are considerably lower in volume then the E string. It barely even registers while recording.

I'm a bit nervous about bringing my bass back to that butcher, I was hoping someone here knew what the problem might be and how it could be fixed.

Thanks,
Z

[202dy]

Unequal string volume is usually a function of pickup height. Measure from the bottom of the string to the top of the pickup. Optimum starting point is 1/8" on the bass side and 3/32" on the treble side. You can refine volume levels from there. If the guitar has a split pickup design, start with the outside measurements and adjust the pickups under the A and D strings to follow the curve of the strings between the outside points.

[RickenBoogie]

+1, but I'll add, don't use that guy again. Do some research, and find someone better qualified. That sounds to me like your set-up tech truly is a butcher.

[wld3]

IME most local guitar techs pretty well butcher things. Whether that is because they don't know how to set up properly or they don't care to do a good job, I can't say. In any case, it means you have to shop around and be careful who you let tweak around with your bass.

[202dy]

Originally Posted by RickenBoogie

+1, but I'll add, don't use that guy again. Do some research, and find someone better qualified. That sounds to me like your set-up tech truly is a butcher.

This is an interesting comment. The OP gives absolutely no data about his set up or the quality and brand of the instrument. We do not know the string heights, amount of relief, or the relationship of the strings to the pickups. If the OP has unrealistic expectations for the set up his comments are just that.

Most importantly, we do have any data about the environment in the OP's home and the repair shop. Summer humidity coupled with an instrument left in a properly humidified repair shop for a couple of weeks and moved to a location that lacks any environmental control could account for the problem.

A sweeping indictment might be a little premature given the lack of evidence available.

Originally Posted by wld3

IME most local guitar techs pretty well butcher things. Whether that is because they don't know how to set up properly or they don't care to do a good job, I can't say.

Those of us in the trade who did not set up our shops in a major US city thank you for ringing endorsement.

In any case, it means you have to shop around and be careful who you let tweak around with your bass.

Finally, a comment with a hint of truth.