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Modding Your VM Squier Bass!?

LuvMusic

LuvMusic

Aug 18, 2007
1,457
25
Oak Park, IL
#1
Over the last couple of weeks I've read a couple of threads where TB'ers have modded various models of Squier's VM bass line.

I have a VM 70's Jazz bass where I replaced the bridge (Badass II) and strings (not very radical).

I also have a new VM Tele Bass that is still original.

I'm curious, what have you done to your Squier VM basses (regardless of model)?

Were the mods drop-in or did you have to drill, shave, etc.?

How did you like your mod when done?

I'm thinking about mods for my basses and I'd like to read your suggestions and experiences.

Thanks for the replies!
 
#7
lovebrigade said:
Good thread idea, anyone mod a vm fretless? The Jaco looking ones? I was thinking bout getting one but Id also like a bass I can mod (not touching my lakland or rickenbacker) any mods done to those?
Click to expand...

I'm considering a new preamp in mine, mainly because there's a big jump in volume when I switch from my P to that, and I can't really get the right tone out of the P at the lower volumes. I've also considered new PUPs, something that'll fit in a standard jazz, that way if I do decide to upgrade or get rid of it (though I don't foresee that at any time) I can just put the original electronics back in and update another J, since I like the general sound and feel. I will say that I don't believe it needs any upgrades, I play it bone stock and love it.
 
#10
I have the fretless, and have changed the pickups to SD Model Js. I tried a BAII, but just couldn't get into it, so I've swapped between it and the stock bridge three times now. Currently using the stock and selling the BAII. I don't really see the need to mod it, to tell the truth - I changed the pickups due to an EQ problem with the amp I was using at the time - I lost my mwah, and got it back with the model Js, then sold the amp. :rolleyes:
 
#13
Here is my VM Jazz, that I got here on TB thanks to Mr.Nice Guy...it came with a Audre, I have since then had a Bassline MM installed with a SD Antiquity II in the neck position,a Gotoh bridge,a Batt Box, and it is now strung BEAD,my only problem is the B is sloppy...I have read tapered strings will work better,does anyone have any suggestions on strings to try? I have DR Lowriders at the moment:confused:
 

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#14
bassman1185 said:
I've got a VM 70's Jazz, and I just dropped in SD Quarter Pounders. The stock pickups sounded pretty good, but the new ones added some nice thickness to the tone. I'm keeping an eye out for some new tuners here on TB, too, because the stock ones aren't too great. Really though, the bass was giggable without any mods.
Click to expand...

Check out the link above by Mellow Bedwetter, the link takes you to a thread about a mod on a VM Jazz including tuners.
 
#16
Mine is a P-bass Special (Indonesian) which has a really nice neck and sings naturally.
The modifications listed below will apply to any bass.

The first thing was to fit Rotosound flats, adjust the truss rod and action and set up the intonation.
It then felt beautiful, but lacked a good sound. It also had a terrible hum.
A few fun hours followed by shielding the insides, replacing the pots and wiring, but most of all installing DiMarzio pick-ups.

It now sounds as good as it feels.
Time and money well spent. My number one bass.

Sure I still look at other basses, but deep down I know I won't find one I like more.
 
#20
I've just bought a VM Jazz (fretted). I've also just bought a Sansamp SABDDI which gives some really nice tweak to the tone without having to install a preamp, plus if the battery ever goes then I get the straight passive tone (which doesn't suck). I love what Bartman has done to his, but that must have doubled the cost / value of the bass straight away.
 

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