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Setup & Repair [DB] Exploring the issues involved in setting up and repairing basses, along with luthier recommendations.


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Old 02-06-2008, 01:54 PM
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Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Sacramento
New Engelhardt-Need a few pointers

I am a jazz bassist and just picked up a new Engelhardt, a standard Fishman pickup, low-level fishman preamp, and I have been playing through a Roland kepyboard amp. I also play the stock bridge, stock strings, and set up the bridge myself. I am looking for a deep warm sound that carries through an ensemble. If you are nodding your head right now thinking of when you were starting out and how you got to your great sound, please respond with advice on set up, equipment, and components including strings. I'm not rich but I'm willing to sell some old electric bass equipment to solve these problems as I'm fully committed to upright now.

I really appreciate you help on this and will pay it forward.
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  #2  
Old 02-06-2008, 02:50 PM
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Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: New Fairfield, CT
welcome

Welcome to the wonderful world of big wood.

Most folks here will agree that the Engel stock setup -- including strings and bridge -- is less than ideal. That is, assuming this is a new factory bass and not secondhand. Most folks will also tell you that it's best to have a reputable luthier do the work for you, even if you're a tinkerer, or even good with wood. It's a fine art and I would encourage you to tinker and learn, but the best results will come from someone with years of experience. A setup will cost a few hundred, give or take, but it's a must, in order to bring out the best sound and playability of the instrument. You can find one here:
http://www.gollihurmusic.com/luthiers.cfm

As for the pickup, you'll hear the choir around here say this (and I couldn't agree more): it's an unfortunate necessity sometimes, but don't rely on it for your sound. Work on your technique (with a good DB teacher if you can swing it), then get the amped sound together. BTW, which Fishman did you get? Some of the older ones are not so much. The Full Circle is good though.

Considering all the expenses involved, I'd go for the setup w/ new strings, take some lessons so you don't develop any bad habits, then as you get more dough together, you can address the amplification problem. Which may or may not need addressing, depending on your taste and goals.

Have fun playing!
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