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  #1  
Old 01-30-2010, 09:02 PM
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Fret Lines

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I have a 4 string fretless bass made by 48th Street Custom Guitars. The fingerboard is ebony, with no fret lines. It's been a long time since I've played it, but I am beginning to play it again. I was wondering if anyone has ever added fret lines on an ebony neck without having to apply a finish on top as this would alter the sound. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you.
  #2  
Old 01-30-2010, 09:20 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 88bass View Post
I have a 4 string fretless bass made by 48th Street Custom Guitars. The fingerboard is ebony, with no fret lines. It's been a long time since I've played it, but I am beginning to play it again. I was wondering if anyone has ever added fret lines on an ebony neck without having to apply a finish on top as this would alter the sound. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you.
It is a task, but it can be done. If you've got the budget, it is absolutely possible. Unless you've got a nice setup that enables you to achieve your results, I'd suggest taking your instrument to the most competent local guy and shelling out for a job well done. You should get what you want, and even if it is expensive, it's better than a cheap job done poorly.

As for doing it yourself, if you have access to veneer in a contrasting color, of a thickness that fits hand saw established slots, an appropriate jig situation, and the will......that is actually a pretty simple, though not without consequence, way to get into customization.

We her can give you some step by step if you'd like, in various ways. After all, nothing is actually a secret, it just may take a little prying!
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  #3  
Old 01-31-2010, 01:38 AM
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If you are just worried about finding your way around a huge black expanse of ebony, an easier way might be to put a dot or other marker on the fingerboard edge at every 'fret' position (assuming that you don't have these already).

IMHO these are just as useful as a fully lined board from a playing perspective and a lot easier to do than cutting and filling perfectly square fretslots; and all the refinishing that might entail.
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Old 01-31-2010, 01:01 PM
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Thank you for your responses. I think that I should probably just leave the bass as is and force myself to learn using my ears and hands. Thanks again.
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