Bolt-on or neck through... which do you prefer?

[Alvaro Martín Gómez A.]

It's been said that bolt-ons have a punchier tone (more attack) and less sustain than neck-throughs and I agree based on my experience comparing the Carvin BB75 (neck-through) with the EBMM Bongo (bolt-on). Based on that, I prefer bolt-ons because of the attack... but the Rickenbacker 4003 is an exception to the rule (a neck-through with tremendous punch).

So, in terms of tone, I'm not sure. The biggest advantage of neck-through basses is the easier access to the last frets (for those who use them, of course).

 

[Darkstrike]

Of course take that to a "production" level, where they're getting spit out in mass amounts.

Indeed, I was just kidding around.

In fact, I always assumed that setnecks were cheaper, but, take more time and effort.

 

[Darkstrike]

The biggest advantage of neck-through basses is the easier access to the last frets (for those who use them, of course).

The thing about this, is you can design a bolt-on to have superb upper access too.

 

[XtheDeadPawn]

Bolt on's. All the basses I've ever wanted I've found out all have them. ATK's, P basses (Non Fenders), EBO's, and some BC Rich's. I find I like the snap they give me when I really dig in with a pick. Also in the long run it'll prolong the basses life face it a broken neck on a set in or neck thru = a broken bass.

 

[T-MOST]

It doesn't matter to me. One of my basses is NT the other is BO.

 

[jelpo]

The tone of a bass is decided by many factors, I've played very punchy neck-thru basses and very smooth bolt-on basses. I'm not saying its irrelevant, but it isn't the biggest factor in what makes a bass good or bad IME.

I agree, and well said.

Although, I did vote for neck thru not because of sound, but because I like they way they look and feel. I play both tho. If I had to pick between two equally well constructed and awesome sounding basses, a neck thru design could make up my mind.

 

[nutso42]

Is it possible to convert from a bolt-on to a neck-thru?

 

[Rickett Customs]

Is it possible to convert from a bolt-on to a neck-thru?

Yeah, but it involves some major cutting to the body and a discarded neck, unless you really want to do some more extra work on the neck.

Short answer: yes It can

Short question: It'll be alot of work, but in the end, will it be worth it to you?

 

[nutso42]

Bump, just for the fun of it.

 

[The_Owl]

Set neck.

 

[5StringBlues]

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[michael_atw]

Depends on which one pays the dinner bill.

 

[mcapote]

i play a set neck and a bolt on. like em both for different reasons.

 

[SanDiegoHarry]

I've had them all and I have always liked the sound of a bolt-on or Set-neck bass to a neck-through. I have no rational explanation - Neck thru basses just seem to lack something (or have too much of something!)

 

[nutso42]

The thing about this, is you can design a bolt-on to have superb upper access too.

I have a Traben Chaos that has the easiest upper-fret access I've ever seen. Take a look....

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