Changing endpin

[hgrind]

The endpin on my Strunal 5/21w is a little too short. It also has been bent a little bit. I wonder if the endpin is something I could change myself or should I go to a luthier? Where can I get a good solid endpin for a nice price? Also, how do I find out wich size (diameter?) to get?

[JtheJazzMan]

Its very easy to make your own if you just want a rubber tip endpin.

Your local hardware store should stock tubular metal in all sizes.

Im currently using tubular aluminium, cost me $10 for 3 metres

[Bruce Lindfield]

| think that a poor endpin can affect the sound of your bass in a negative way, so skimping on this is not a good idea.

When I bought my current bass, there was an annoying rattle when you played certain notes.

My teacher listened and identified that it was down to the cheap endpin - i got it changed by a luthier to a high-quality carbon fibre endpin and the rattle went and the sound of the bass improved dramatically!

[JtheJazzMan]

But if its only the shaft that needs replacing, you dont have to spend much money at all. You can also cut a piece to whatever length you want.

I do recommend using only short lengths of aluminium as its weaker than steel. But much much lighter. Should be better for the sound, but honestly I couldnt tell the difference

[MIKMAN]

IMHO the end pin affects the dramatically the sound. A wooden rod most of the times gives a better tone, enhancing volume and making it warmer. The same is with the carbon fiber rod. Only in some weird cases (and i have noticed three of them so far) a metal rod can improve the sound (it happens to some really "dark" basses). Ordering a carbon fiber rod from Upton or a combination of a carbon fiber rod with a wooden end from KC Strings can make a difference. I have tried all of them with excellent results.
Mike