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fretless conversion questions

Discussion in 'Basses [BG]' started by monkeyfinger, Jul 13, 2020.


  1. Jul 13, 2020 #1
    monkeyfinger

    monkeyfinger Moderator Staff Member

    Oct 29, 2001
    Warwick, Rhode Island, USA
    I am working with a local luthier to have a bass converted to fretless. The instrument has a macassar ebony board. I asked him to replace the frets with pau ferro strips. The goal here is to give a medium contrast in color and not require a poly finish. He also offered to apply an epoxy finish to the board for a small up-charge. I have some questions for you:

    1. Will pau ferro strips be ok with just basic oil finish? Will I have any issues with ebony/pf?
    2. What are you thoughts on an epoxy finish? I am inclined to pass on this. I've never experienced issues with unfinished fretless boards. I don't expect any with the ebony/pf board. I would like to hear about your experience with epoxy finishes.
    Thanks all.
     
  5. Jul 13, 2020 #2
    Turnaround

    Turnaround Commercial User

    May 6, 2004
    Toronto Canada
    Independent Instrument Technician
    A decent double bass has an ebony board. No finish.
    Pao Ferro is fine. But any lined board may required occasional maintenance, ie. light sanding to deal with lines that sprout a bit.
    An epoxy-finished board will be a lot brighter sounding than an unfinished board. So it depends on what you are after.
     

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