Stiff bass help

[ERIC A]

I have a 7/8 Eastman carved bass that I find has a very stiff feel. I own a 7/8 Christopher bass with the same set-up as the Eastman, but is a pleasure to play. I use a combination of steel and gut on both, but they feel completely different. The Christopher's bridge is jacked up to give it the right feel. However, the Eastman is set-up like I have Starks on it. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[nicklloyd]

What strings are on the Eastman?

[ERIC A]

The E & A are obligato's, and the D & G are Lenzner gut's.

Thanks!

[nicklloyd]

Wow... and it plays stiff? Is this a flatback or carved back? Has the bass been setup professionally? Maybe you need some soundpost t.l.c.?

Hmm.

[arnoldschnitzer]

Check the fingerboard camber (scoop). I bet it's deep.

[ERIC A]

[quote=nicklloyd]Wow... and it plays stiff? Is this a flatback or carved back? Has the bass been setup professionally? Maybe you need some soundpost t.l.c.?

It is a flatback. I did have it set-up by a well-respected luthier around town (unfortunately, he is out of town for a month). Also, he did adjust the soundpost. He did improve the sound of the bass, as well as the playability. But, it is still has a very stiff feel. I was thinking if I lengthen the tailpiece wire it might make a difference.
Any thoughts?

Thanks again!!!

[b1644]

How does the mensur of the Eastman compare to the Christopher?

If it's longer the strings will be at a higher tension and feel stiffer.

Also, if the strings are a heavy-gauge they'll be higher-tension and will feel stiffer than medium's.


- Martin V.