Double Bass Action vs String Height

[Matthew Tucker]

What started this thread was an inquiry regarding why one shouldn't refer to string height as action. I think the answer is that string height is a parameter (as is camber and arch). Action seems to be the result of setting the parameters.

And so I think for someone referring to how their double bass feels to play, it shouldn't be off limits to refer to it as action. And if they want a higher string height, well to say that "raising the action" does not adequately describe the sort of thing they're after is a bit pedantic. In the conversation that follows that request is the education bit about the string height being only one of the parameters.

I have a bass here with a string height at the end of the FB set at 5mm on the G side and 8mm on the E side. You'd think a low string height like that would play like butter, but - you know what I'm going to say - the scoop is so excessive that the string height under the stopping hand is unplayable.

So no, "string height" is not "string height".

Yes we all know that by convention "string height" refers to the height of the strings at the end of the fingerboard. But i'd argue that "String Height" on its own is actually very ambiguous and does not really describe anything about the playability of the instrument.

in fact, Arnold's cheeky is the only good reason i can think of to be an "action" pedant.

Now ... fretting is another matter ...

 

[Don Higdon]

I say "string height" because:
1. That's what I measure with a ruler.
2. Arnold is my luthier.

 

[Matthew Tucker]

The Double Bass is a Violin family instrument.

For that matter, as you know Double Basses are often referred to as descendents of the VIOL family, not the violin family. Many viols had frets. So where does that leave us? I don't know.

 

[Uncletoad]

Truth be told, "action" is a nebulous term in the EB world too.

This is very true. In my shop action doesn't mean much either. We talk about how the instrument feels and responds being the combination of string height off the frets, bow or relief, and height at the nut--Similar concepts to string height and camber in the violin world. Everyone has their jargon. I suppose if my jargon spills over on your jargon you might want to wipe it up lest you be contaminated.

As long as we communicate I don't mind if we use your Jargon or mine. Heck lets just mix it all around and have a big ole orgy of jargon.

 

[1st Bass]

"For that matter, as you know Double Basses are often referred to as descendents of the VIOL family, not the violin family. Many viols had frets. So where does that leave us?"

Some Viol-ent Bass Action? I'm not going to fret about that one...

 

[arnoldschnitzer]

For that matter, as you know Double Basses are often referred to as descendents of the VIOL family, not the violin family. Many viols had frets. So where does that leave us? I don't know.

I really don't think it matters. People should use whatever language they like, as long as it helps them communicate. If someone uses the word "action" in my shop, they do not get thrown out. I, however, do not use this term.

Matthew, I think you started this thread just to stir things up. Not a bad idea...

 

[Bruce Lindfield]

I think we are getting a kind of consensus here - so fine if you want to use the term "action" - nobody's going to stop you - but you will immediately identify yourself as a heathen who most likely has spent more time around BGs than "real" Basses!!

 

[kurt muroki]

I find this very interesting! My own feelings... The word action suggests motion... how much motion... the bassist needs to think about this when playing, not only in relationship to speed and stamina, but even sound and how the bass feels to play. For me the action of a bass can also change depending on the strings I use.

The term string height (the way it is usually used) refers to the static height that the string is in relationship to the fingerboard which can be quantified by the luthier when setting up instruments.

so both terms make sense and both should be used as descriptives... standardizing and customizing.

My own personal view in the violin/bass relationship and the luthiers shop has a lot to do with how much variation there are in the standards of measurement between basses and violins. This is only based on my views as a player and the fact that I need to think about this aspect when trying out instruments.

Hope this all makes sense!

 

[akmusicfreak]

.

 

[zeytoun]

"I played .............. Tuba and trombone at one time."

That takes some lungs. And did you have to do a figure-eight with your lips? That's chops.

 

[Matthew Tucker]

I'm not to sure if I'm worried about identifying myself as being more familiar with BG, ......but how do I hide the fact that I played .............. Tuba and trombone at one time.

When you ask for your valve "action" to be adjusted, THAT's when we'll know.

Yes Arnold, I've been brought up by you and others to be a "height" user, but the ol' "action" slips so easily off the tongue I thought it was worth discussing ...

 

[Bass]

"I played .............. Tuba and trombone at one time."

That takes some lungs. And did you have to do a figure-eight with your lips? That's chops.

Ha ha ha, you're on fire Zeytoun!

 

[akmusicfreak]

Ha ha ha, you're on fire Zeytoun!

...........ok,

I think you have a little to much free time on your hands....

 

[Bruce Lindfield]

"I played .............. Tuba and trombone at one time."

That takes some lungs. And did you have to do a figure-eight with your lips? That's chops.

Yeah that would put Roland Kirk in his place - 2 or 3 Saxes at once - that's nothing, get a load of this...