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2x2 headstock vs straight 4

#63
The answer to this eternal dilemma....

51hLFf8AYSL._SL1000_.jpg
 
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#66
I like either depending on overall style of the instrument and whether 2+2 or inline (or other iterations) fits the overall aesthetics. I do not personally like angled tuners as they give me the impression the bass is melting and makes it look like gumby should be playing it.
 
#70
I own basses with both configurations. I think it comes down to the style of the bass. On some, four in line will look cool, while on others, four on a side will look better.

The only headstocks I find aesthetically unappealing because of their tuner configuration are the 4+1 type headstocks.
 
#73
non said:
i want to start by saying this post is not meant to make folks upset. this is strictly a observation i have noticed in my bass aesthetics. just my evolving taste in basses which i am sure everyone has gone through.

i haven't bought a bass in a couple of years. i recently came into a little money (grandma passed). so i have been bass shopping for the last 4 months or so. the last couple of basses i bought have 2x2 tuners. i like the 2x2 over the straight 4 just because of the smaller headstock and shorter overall bass length but i was seriously considering a fender american elite pj. i have a jazz.
something dawned on me. i have gotten so use the look of the 2x2 tuners that the straight 4 headstock on the fenders look clownish in how over sized they are.
it's like when you watch a lot of mix martial arts fights then you see a boxing match. the boxers look so clownish in there attire.
everything is so over sized. big high waisted shorts, big clown gloves, etc...

is there a reason fender makes there p and j headstocks so damn big besides tradition?
not trying to bash fender or boxers just mho which could change.
Click to expand...

Yes, you can make one cut and get two headstocks out of a rectangular piece of wood. Just keeping it simple.
 
#75
Headstocks matter to me. Ideally they should have:
  • light weight tuners
  • Straight pull for the strings
  • Consistent break-over angle at the nut
  • As short as possible to improve balance and reduce reach.
The trick is finding one that fits this that isn't ugly.

I think the best approach is a 2x2 tilt back. A tilt-back 4 inline headstock with ultralight tuners comes close but still isn't as good.

Of course there are many 2x2 headstocks that don't have straight string pulls so you have to be picky.
 
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#76
#79
I like Fender styles okay, but I prefer 2 + 2, angled. It calls to mind the tradition of lutherie, while Fender calls to mind assembly. Same for clear finishes on different species of wood, as opposed to auto paint. Dark fingerboard wood, set-neck or thru-neck.

What really look weird to me are those 4 inline angled headstocks. If you're gonna do 4 inline, don't angle the headstock! It makes the bass look like it's used for metal.
 
#80
Gizmot said:
Lets put science and engineering aside here and talk about personal preferences.

My favorite layout is Warwick’s 2 x 2 or 3 x 2 arrangement with its angled tuning keys. The angled keys just make tuning easier. They also make it easier to see which string you’re adjusting.
Click to expand...
yes the angled tuning keys are a nice touch.
 

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