Enjoy the benefits of a premium membership!
Upgrade Account
-
TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
Join free Log in
Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.
Clank effect
- Thread starter icarus88
- Start date
How much relief does the neck have? Less relief may help IMO depending what you have it set to now.
If you are trying to get a Steve Harris style clank, he strikes the strings at a more downward angle towards the bass rather than plucking upwards.
If you are trying to get a Steve Harris style clank, he strikes the strings at a more downward angle towards the bass rather than plucking upwards.
ok, well if you run .010 relief with string height 5/64-3/64 you will be able to get clank all day with ease, but can also play clean with that setup also. How good your left hand control is the biggest factor
Do I need to tighten the truss rod? I'm afraid it might break.
From what you describe, and what you want to achieve, I honestly think the problem might be your technique.
What is your string action, as in the distance from top of 12th fret to bottom of your low E string (unfretted)?
Ideally would use layered paper, picks, or a hex key of a specific measurement, to slide in between the string and the fret, for most precise measurement, rather than measuring with a ruler.
What is your string action, as in the distance from top of 12th fret to bottom of your low E string (unfretted)?
Ideally would use layered paper, picks, or a hex key of a specific measurement, to slide in between the string and the fret, for most precise measurement, rather than measuring with a ruler.
You don't have different hex/Allen keys of different specific measurements, or picks with specified gauge you can layer, and slide between fret and string to access the action, or just a simple standard ruler?
Last edited:
I never use tools to measure relief, just push the A or D string down at the first fret, then push the other end down at the last fret with your elbow at the same time, now that string is a straight edge and you can see the relief.
For clank you want very little relief, I also like to set a saddle too low intentionally so I can make sure the "buzz" is even across the fretboard. If it buzzes excessively below fret 7th, it's too little relief, buzz above 10th fret is usually too much.
Then once that's all good fine tune each string saddle to get the attack you want and intonate as needed. This kind of setup works well for slap too.
For clank you want very little relief, I also like to set a saddle too low intentionally so I can make sure the "buzz" is even across the fretboard. If it buzzes excessively below fret 7th, it's too little relief, buzz above 10th fret is usually too much.
Then once that's all good fine tune each string saddle to get the attack you want and intonate as needed. This kind of setup works well for slap too.
Most folks here know what “clank” tone is. I was working on getting a similar Steve Harris tone 20 years ago, and I’m sure there are other folks on TalkBass who have been working to achieve that same tone for even longer than that.
It’s possible your setup isn’t the most ideal for achieving the tone you’re looking for, which is why in previous threads folks were recommending you learn how to do a setup yourself. If you hold down your first fret and last fret to the fretboard, how much space is between the bottom of the string and the top of the 8th-10th frets? Do the strings touch the frets? They shouldn’t. Can you just barely squeeze a business card in there? That’s pretty decent. Can you fit a credit card or something thicker in there? Your setup probably isn’t ideal.
In addition, I remember you wanting to use higher gauge strings. While string gauge isn’t synonymous for string tension, a heavy gauge typically means higher string tension which can hinder your ability to achieve “clank” tone. Steve Harris uses thick, high tension flatwound strings. They work for him, but they did not work for me. I personally use light gauge round wounds, and I have no problem getting clank when I want to.
Your playing technique can play a huge role in the sound you’re getting. Playing through the string and towards the pickup will help. You might have to hit the strings harder than you normally would if the setup isn’t ideal.
How new and fresh the strings are also plays a role. I know you got new strings put on recently so that shouldn’t be an issue, but if you’re playing 5+ hours a day and aren’t playing with clean hands and wiping down the strings once you’re done playing then they will dull out a lot quicker. Keep in mind, Steve Harris puts new strings on before every show he plays, and I believe I once read he does the same for each track he records in the studio. He strings are very new and fresh, and that helps him get his tone. Unfortunately, most people don’t have that kind of money to spend.
Lastly, it’s possible you just need to practice more. It took me probably 3-4 years before I personally thought I was having consistent, good tone. It takes times to figure these things out, so don’t get discouraged.
Okay, I understand.
It is probably worth trying to find the right tools needed to make some at home adjustments.
Last edited:
Setup and technique.
Don't fool with the trussrod unless you know what you're doing.
Steve has super low action, VERY stiff strings and a specific technique of attacking the strings in a downward fashion.
Don't fool with the trussrod unless you know what you're doing.
Steve has super low action, VERY stiff strings and a specific technique of attacking the strings in a downward fashion.
