Question about semi-hollow and slap bass

[surfaday]

Hi all, Happy Independence Day!

I own an Ibanez AGB140, a semi-hollow 4-string.

I am just starting to try my hand at slap bass and a random user stated in a personal review that this bass was not good for slap.

Would this be a technique issue with the user or is there a reason why a semi-hollow, or perhaps, this bass in particular, would not be good for slap?

Or are there conditions that could be remedied?

Wouldn't take much for me to have an excuse to get another bass, but I was just wondering.

Thanks!

Walter

[vin*tone]

Sure you can.....

YouTube - ‪Bowlus Bass Borg GTG, 2006 - Mike on Gretsch‬‏

[surfaday]

Whoa! No kidding! Thanks.

[Fergie Fulton]

Hi, i owned an AGB 140 and there are no problems with it doing any technique. The correct strings and set up and your only limitation is your imagination.

[surfaday]

Thanks for the clue on set up. I have searched the forum and will try different string heights. Seems like there are as many set ups recommending lowering action as there are raising the action. But at least I have a starting point to improving the playability and finding what suits me.

I'm also glad you did just fine with the same bass!

Walter

[JimmyM]

Ya, for some reason, the younger folks today love to pigeonhole every piece of gear into little boxes from which there is no escape. I (and a few others, thank God) am here to tell you that it's BS. I've not only slapped on hollowbodies, but I've done it on violin basses strung with flats, and while I think slap might sound better on other basses than a violin bass, it can still be done and can sound pretty good.

[surfaday]

Thanks for the encouragement. I lowered the action and it made a considerable difference. I wish I could get past that point where I feel like I'm right handed trying to eat with my left hand. Its pretty awkward, but I guess I thought that when I started guitar too.