Chambered Body, What's The Upside?

[ClassicJazz]

I know this is an old thread, but currently researching chambered bodies for a Warmoth PJ build. I'm really surprised to see a Sadowsky chambered body with chambering at the bridge area / thought there would be NO chambers there at all. Makes more sense the way Warmoth does it. In fact I don't see why Warmoth doesn't ADD a chambered area on the lower cutaway as well....but what do I know =)))

Goal: around a 8# PJ bass with P body / 4 string / passive / not sure which pups yet / master vol / blend / tone, Warmoth neck / rosewood board / no dots on face / only side dots / swamp ash / figured maple top / black pickguard / cherry burst / Hipshot light tuners / Hipshot Style A bridge.

I've read that a chambered body might result in less focused lows, but some can't tell the difference + depends on pups etc.


View attachment 7318280

From what I remember Sadowsky started chambering body due to light weight swamp ash was getting harder to find.

 

[JIO]

I've done a number of 'chambered' bodies, some of which I've posted here. I've yet to read any clinical research on how it specifically affects the way a bass sounds. I personally have done it for weight reduction and have done so pretty thoroughly using forstner-bits of varying sizes. In all I've done, I have not noticed a negative difference and since each example is unique, it's hard to assess a positive difference as there is nothing to compare to. Bottom line is my basses are comfortable to play being light weight, and they consistently sound as good as all the particulars incorporated. (types of woods used, pu's, electronics, bridges and how they are grounded to the body, nut, strings, etc) I'm all for chambering - just am waiting to discover how targeted chambering can effect the way a bass sounds. Having said that, I believe it gives a body a certain level of resonance akin to a hollow-body. Not the same of course - but there.

My most recent chambered body - bottom = mahogany / top = maple -

Finished - an awesome sounding, ergonomic and light-weight bass

 

[Suntory]

A Warmoth Dinky is an option for lighter basses.

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[fhm555]

A Warmoth Dinky is an option for lighter basses.

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I've looked at the dinky J bass bodies with bad intent on several occasions, I've just not taken the plunge. I've been forced by time and mistreatment to switch to a short scale so I'm thinking maybe a dinky J with a short scale neck. I like my little Mustang OK but it is just barely keeping my dress blown up these days. I can't find a way to sit or stand where it feels natural to hold. Sounds silly I know, but all I've played in forever was J basses so maybe I just need a smaller version.

 

[hbarcat]

For reference, this is what a The Bass Company (TBC) chambered body looks like inside:

 

[Ric Vice]

I've done a number of 'chambered' bodies, some of which I've posted here. I've yet to read any clinical research on how it specifically affects the way a bass sounds. I personally have done it for weight reduction and have done so pretty thoroughly using forstner-bits of varying sizes. In all I've done, I have not noticed a negative difference and since each example is unique, it's hard to assess a positive difference as there is nothing to compare to. Bottom line is my basses are comfortable to play being light weight, and they consistently sound as good as all the particulars incorporated. (types of woods used, pu's, electronics, bridges and how they are grounded to the body, nut, strings, etc) I'm all for chambering - just am waiting to discover how targeted chambering can effect the way a bass sounds. Having said that, I believe it gives a body a certain level of resonance akin to a hollow-body. Not the same of course - but there.

My most recent chambered body - bottom = mahogany / top = maple -

View attachment 7318447
View attachment 7318448
Finished - an awesome sounding, ergonomic and light-weight bass
View attachment 7318449

Your design, craftsmanship, and finish are exquisite.

 

[Ric Vice]

There are essentially two reasons for chambering a bass. My Godin LR Baggs Acoustibass is chambered to give it more acoustic resonance
Along with the internally mounted sympathetic tines it creates a longer sustain and different tone. Other basses use chambering to lighten the instrument.

 

[JIO]

There are essentially two reasons for chambering a bass. My Godin LR Baggs Acoustibass is chambered to give it more acoustic resonance
Along with the internally mounted sympathetic tines it creates a longer sustain and different tone. Other basses use chambering to lighten the instrument. View attachment 7318655View attachment 7318656

Wow - now that's someone creatively addressing acoustic sound/tone. Is there any descriptive copy on it?

 

[JIO]

Your design, craftsmanship, and finish are exquisite.

Thanks Ric !

 

[SomewhatHarmles]

Hey Jio,

You're one of the TBers that inspire me to continue trying to build a bass.

 

[Ric Vice]

Wow - now that's someone creatively addressing acoustic sound/tone. Is there any descriptive copy on it?

Only the original flyer from Godin. It shows cutaway picture of the harp
on the Acousticaster.

 

[JIO]

Hey Jio,

You're one of the TBers that inspire me to continue trying to build a bass.

Glad to hear it! Once you start, head over to the Luthiers Corner. Don't be intimidated as there are all levels of builders there and everyone is happy to help a new builder along the way.