Popping the D string without touching the G?

Damani311 · #1 08-18-2007, 08:44 AM

Seems impossible for me...the string spacing on my streamer is so small that to get my index/middle/ring finger under and string but the bottom G, my fingernail (the main top part of it) collides with the string below it (so when plucking D i hit G, A i hit D, etc).

When amplified this makes a horrible clicking noise that sounds very unnatural, but after a few days of slowing it down it's just apparent to me that maybe i got a bass with too small of fingerspace, but I know people that play this like mad (zender) and have no problems at all....any suggestions/links for me? It's really frustrating as a player of 4 years to realize that i can't even do an extremely simple slap/pop...and trust me i've been trying

Daniel Trolie · #2 08-18-2007, 11:59 AM

1) practise trying not to hit the G.2) if 1 doesn't seem to help after a period of time, get a Stingray 4

Good luck

MudKricket · #3 08-18-2007, 12:33 PM

try maybe have your finger kind of resting on the string u want to pop before you actually pop it

MacNilly · #4 08-18-2007, 02:44 PM

Only a matter of practice my friend.

It will come.

lowphatbass · #5 08-20-2007, 06:59 AM

If you have big fingers get a bigger bass(wider spacing). Try the same thing on some other basses, maybe with higher action. If the problem is universal more practice is the key.

**Pacman** · #6 08-20-2007, 07:45 AM

Remember that you don't need to get much of your finger in there to get a good pop. Practice to see how little you can get away with.

JimmyM · #7 08-20-2007, 08:08 AM

I don't think string spacing has a thing to do with it. I can slap on my Turser beatle bass copy no problem, and it's got a very tight string spacing. I've also seen Reggie Wooten slap on a guitar and he doesn't seem to have a problem, either.

Instead, I think Jon is on the right track. Just don't stick your entire finger in the space. Use as little of your finger as it takes to get a good yank.

FoHBass · #8 08-20-2007, 02:13 PM

Most Warwicks (not Streamer Std.) let you adjust the string spacing at the bridge. On my Corvette, I made the distance wider on the A, D and G strings, and a little narrower between the B, E, and A strings. If you want to be able to pop them in normal spacing, gradually set it back to normal. You'll get more and more used to popping without touching the adjacent string.

Just J · #9 08-20-2007, 02:19 PM

My 5 strings have very narrow string spacing, so I had this problem. It was a matter of changing my hand orientation and using my left to mute the string. Now it's a non issue... just need to work on the double pops. Which reminds me... *new thread*

alexofc69 · #10 08-20-2007, 02:37 PM

My MTD has wide spacing. So, I love it!! I also play my Schecter all of the time and its super tight!! Its a matter of being able to be flexible with your tecnique. SO, when I play the narrow spaced bass I tighten up my technique. It actually helps you learn to be more accurate. Then when I play my MTD or Jazz I can loosen up. It takes time.