G&L JB Purchase Questions...
 

Greetings All,

I have decided to purchase a G&L JB in the next few weeks. Before I do I would like to have your input on a few questions/concerns I have.

First, I was debating on going with the #6 neck with the 7.5'' radius. I was leaning this way because I have smaller hands. However, I have read that the 12'' radius promotes better technique. I'm also thinking there was probably a good reason they chose to go with the 12'' radius on this model.

Second, I want my G&L JB to look exactly like the one pictured on the website with a few minor tweaks. I'd like to go with that Baby Blue color with matching headstock,vintage tint satin finish(I love the vintage tint look, but love the quick playability of a satin finish), with the creme pickguard and the metal pickup cover. My question here is: when i look at the USA finish options "Baby Blue" isn't listed. Is this color really Himalayan Blue because it is listed as baby blue here: http://www.glguitars.com/instruments...s/JB/index.asp

Thank You,

-Greg

The radius comes down to personal preference. I prefer 12", because it seems to facilitate lower action and playability generally, but many players prefer the 7.5". I think some of the latter started out on more vintage basses, and are just accustomed to that feel. If possible, try J basses with both radii to figure out which you prefer, recognizing that other factors come into play, such as the neck's rear profile. G&L's rear profiles tend to be a little fuller than Fender's, so, for example, a Fender AV '75 neck won't feel exactly like a G&L #6.

I think G&L has simply discontinued the Baby Blue finish, and Himalayan is pretty close. If you would definitely prefer Baby Blue, it can't hurt to ask whether they have some of it left. You never know.

By the way, good choice on the JB. Mine is Midnight Blue, exactly like the one on G&L's site, and I love it. Boutiques are typically lighter, but otherwise the JB is their equal IMO.

Nedmundo,

Do you know of any basses that come standard with a 7.5'' radius? If a major manufacturer makes basses with that fretboard radius it should be fairly easy to try one out. With regard to the finish, should I just call one of G&L's authorized dealers and try to order it that way or contact G&L directly?

Best Regards,

-Greg

Are you familiar with the guitarsbyleo.com site? You may find some answers, or at least additional opinions, over there.

BTW, I think Himalaya Blue is a beautiful color, and I don't much like blue basses.

Thanks for the advice, I just posted on the forum.

IME, a flatter radius makes a neck feel thinner, not the other way around.

Fender's American Vintage and Roadworn J-basses have 7.25" radii, and a couple others might. I thought the Reggie Hamilton and Geddy Lee did also, but Fender's site now says they're 9.5". For the color question, I'd go through a G&L dealer, but the folks on bassesbyleo.com might be in the know.