bass action specifics

[bassuser35]

Regardless of whether you use a high or low bass action, is there a standard ratio to measure your strings at (i.e. if the b string is measured a x/xx does each higher string rise or descend a specific fraction) also. What does it mean when you say "my measurement on the 12th fret is..." Sorry to be asking these questions, but I am really confused. If someone can help that would be great.

 

[Treena Foster]

I suggest you look over the setup manuals used for most basses and if you still have questions come back and post specifics, we will be happy to answer to the best of our collective knowledge!

This will help get you started!

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You can pre-set the basic intonation of your bass by taking your tape measure and measuring from the inside of the nut to the center of the 12th fret (the wire, not the fingerboard). Double that measurement to find the scale length of your bass. Adjust the 1st string bridge saddle to this scale length, measuring from the inside of the nut to the center of the bridge saddle. Now, adjust the distance of the 2nd saddle back from the 1st saddle, using the gauge of the 2nd string as a measurement (Example: If the 2nd string is .060" you would move the 2nd string back .060" from the 1st saddle). Move the 3rd back from the 2nd saddle, using the gauge of the 3rd string as a measurement. The 4th in the same method (and 5th if you have a 5-string bass). Note: If you are using taperwound 4th string (and 5th if you have a 5-string bass) use the actual gauge of the string for your measurement-not the dimension of the tapered portion of the string.

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Hope this helps!

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Treena

 

[seanm]

This will help get you started!

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Just curious (been around cats too long ), would the setup described in Mr Gearhead be considered low or medium?

 

[Treena Foster]

Just curious (been around cats too long ), would the setup described in Mr Gearhead be considered low or medium?

seanm, in my experience, Medium, but really it's just a starting point because action is subjective to the player.

I like very low action, so I use that as a starting point, then I adjust everything to my taste!

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Treena

 

[seanm]

seanm, in my experience, Medium, but really it's just a starting point because action is subjective to the player.

Bummer, I considered it low Guess I have to work some more on my technique