Adding on a string?

peddles · #1 02-01-2012, 01:30 PM

I've been pondering for a while about adding an extra string to my 4 string geddy lee jazz bass. My idea is to add a very light gauge guitar string after the g string. I was wondering if anybody has tried or knows a guy who does custom work like that? What worries me is the already thinn neck of the geddy lee might not like the extra weight. Anyone?

keytthom · #2 02-01-2012, 01:36 PM

Im currently in the process of adding a 6th string to my 5 string squier jazz like this:

Squier Deluxe Jazz Active 6-string? Yep! (pics)

It does already have pretty wide spacing though, so its going to be a narrow 6er.

what is the spacing like already on your Geddy Lee? Does it have open pole or whole piece pickups? if its open pole, you might have to replace them.

IMO I really like the idea of a narrow Jazz, hence why Im doing it myself to a £200 bass, not to something more expensive

still.... The only trouble I have had is through my own carelessness where I have chipped the paint on the head a bit...

I say go for it

lowendgenerator · #3 02-01-2012, 01:36 PM

Why not try it on a cheap bass, in case it ends up causing damage? Hate to see you ruin your Geddy Jazz for an idea that didn't pan out.

mp40smg · #4 02-01-2012, 01:37 PM

Should be doable. You'd need to think really hard as to where to drill the hole for the tuning peg. Have a new nut cut and replace the bridge. But there should be enough room to make it happen...

But you may have issues with the pole pieces in the pick ups vs string position... hmmm..

As an alternative... You might want to contact Warmouth or a similar company and see what they can do for you. Altering the neck on that is going to destroy any resale possibility. And with the money that you will spend to alter it, you might be better off just buying a replacement that fits..

FunkMetalBass · #5 02-01-2012, 01:43 PM

Are you wanting to make it a 5-string with EADGC tuning? Or are you just hoping to add a second G (octave) like that of an 8-string bass?

peddles · #6 02-01-2012, 02:33 PM

There is no way I could land a drill near my baby, gonna let someone else do it...
But probably going the eadgc way, hopefully this will not cost an arm and a leg. Will check out warmouth, any other ideas?