I got a new bass today (#6). I found a scratch and dent Dean EAB Fretless at Musician's Friend for $150. As far as the scratch and dent goes; it's in pretty good shape, not more than what I would do to it. There is some very light scuffing at the back and some scratches under the E string. I guess whoever bought it before kept it for the most of the 45 days allowed before it was sent back. Over all, it seems to be worth what I've paid for it. I replaced the strings that was on it with nylon wrapped Fender's that I previously had on my electric fretless. The tension is less with the Fender strings, so I have some buzzing on the E string at the low end of the fretboard. I'm going to let it sit overnight and retune it tomorrow. The reviews I've read states the action is pretty high. This one wasn't with the factory strings and it is even lower with the Fender strings. I wonder if the prior owner filed down the slots in the nut. If it still buzzes tomorrow; I'll loosen the truss rod a little, the neck is pretty straight right now. I might have to buy a different nut or maybe I'll get some different strings. I'll let everyone know more about it later.
First thing I'd suggest is the truss rod. I've got one of these, and I replaced the stock strings (which were atrocious) with LaBella Tape wounds. Made a HUGE difference in the sound. I did have to adjust the truss rod, but I've not lowered the action yet. While it's still a tad high it's not very bad at all. It could be possible that the nut was adjusted, hopefully it settles in over night. Check out the ABG thread here if you get a chance.
Congrats on the new ABG! There doesn't seem to be a whole lotta' love for 'em around these parts but, as you've already discovered, tape wounds and a good setup make all the difference in the world. A great addition to any arsenal! As RedsFan75 suggested, take a look at the Acoustic Fetish Club thread.......lots of nice ABG's pictured there.....I believe there are a couple of Dean ABG owners there too! Good luck! Enjoy!
It was a little better yesterday and I adjusted the truss rod just a little last night. This morning it's just right. So far I'm real happy with my $150 fretless, I paid more than that for my neck when I built my electric fretless. I'll check out the thread. I should join a few of these clubs. Thanks for the support and "head's up".
Glad to hear it's settling in for you. Install the tapewounds next and you'll be good to go........enjoy!
hell ya that's the exact setup im gonna get Ive been keeping a little money set aside for a good fretless and i just discovered this and im gonna buy this come wensday