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adjusting to jazz neck, big hands

Discussion in 'Basses [BG]' started by hambone1, Jul 28, 2009.

  1. Jul 28, 2009 #1
    hambone1

    hambone1

    Sep 13, 2006
    I've read a good bit on this topic already but I was wondering if any of you big handed players have made the trasition from say a precision to jazz without the cramping/ discomfort I often hear about and have experienced.

    I would appreciate some feedback b/c I am thinking of getting this jazz bass that I really liked but am concerned as to the neck/comfort?

    Thanks.
     
  2. Jul 28, 2009 #2
    5string5fingers

    5string5fingers

    Mar 18, 2008
    Tifton,Georgia
    I dont have huge hands but have played a precision and 5 strings for the past4 years and just got an ibanez SRX650 the neck is tiny compared to what I'm used to. I haven't had any real problems yet. It's really comfortable but in a weird kind of way. Like dr.schols inserts. Takes some getting used to.
     
  3. Jul 28, 2009 #3
    Jefenator

    Jefenator Supporting Member

    Aug 22, 2008
    Oregon
    I do the caveman thumb around the neck thing even on my wide 5-string. So on the narrow necks, for me there's definitely no avoiding it! :D

    I don't know - I guess I like 'em all shapes and sizes. If it plays and sounds good, I'll deal.
     
  4. Jul 28, 2009 #4
    hambone1

    hambone1

    Sep 13, 2006
    So you have'nt had any problems with cramping or pain when playing a jazz neck?
     
  5. Jul 28, 2009 #5
    SuperSnake2012

    SuperSnake2012 floppy b strings

    Dec 12, 2006
    Bronx, NY
    I've never experienced hand cramping, on 5 strings, P basses, Js, Ricks, Ibanez, etc and I have huge hands. I think cramping would be more of a sign of poor technique.
     
  6. Jul 28, 2009 #6
    carlos840

    carlos840

    May 27, 2008
    Down in the middle somewhere.
    I went from playing only 6 string basses to playing only Jazz basses, imagine that for a shock!
    Apart from the fact that my left hand technique is gone i never had a problem.
    Just take it slowly and give your hand the time to get used to it...
     
  7. Jul 28, 2009 #7
    hambone1

    hambone1

    Sep 13, 2006
    thanks alot for the info
     
  8. Jul 28, 2009 #8
    4-string

    4-string

    Jul 23, 2006
    Norway
    I have fairly big hands, and prefer small necks. My Vigier has the best neck I've ever played on any bass, and it is slim and small in every way.

    Cramps shouldn't occur unless you're trying to break the neck with your left hand...an easy touch is all it takes. ;)
     
  9. Jul 28, 2009 #9
    madbassplaya

    madbassplaya

    Dec 28, 2007
    doesn't really bother me to tell you the truth.
     
  10. Jul 28, 2009 #10
    Jefenator

    Jefenator Supporting Member

    Aug 22, 2008
    Oregon
    Nothing like that - just a temporary bit of claustrophobia. ;) (More so with a short-scale.)

    If there's cramping and/or pain, something is very wrong that has nothing to do with nut width IMHO. (Like LH technique and/or string action.)

    If people can manage on a mandolin, you can manage on a Jazz bass.