As I remember, G&L's specs on pickup height were something like 3/16" at the E (or B) string side and 1/8" at the G string side, generally speaking. They don't seem to have different specs for MFDs and Alnicos, not that I saw anyway, and that was a few years ago, so I don't even remember where I dug those up. I just use a simple ruler to measure. The measurements are taken by putting a capo on the last fret--usually 21 on a G&L--and measuring at the pickup from there. I usually start at around this point and adjust from there by sound. My pickups are not quite this close to the strings with the strings depressed as mentioned.
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.
LoveThatBass
Supporting Member
That is what I found over the years. Different strings, personal tone preference and individual pickup choice determine where I adjust just using my ears and not being so high it affects the intonation of the strings. I like good low end but with clarity and smooth highs. I am not much on high mids but love low mids.
Some times it is a careful balancing act like "Walking on a high wire"
Got something new today: a MIJ Premium L2500. And this ends my search for a 4+1 headstock arrangement version of the L2500 with the shallower arm cut. See-thru red-burst and factory outer-coil K-mod is an added plus.
Last edited:
Frankie was from Indonesia? THAT explains why all the torch-bearing villagers were wearing sarongs and thongs! Thank God, I thought I was in LA...
Has anyone successfully installed the current Ultralight Tuners on a '90s G&L?
Are they a direct fit or is further drilling required?
How much lighter are they than originals?
I have a '96 SB-1 in the shop and wouldn't mind shaving a little weight off.
Are they a direct fit or is further drilling required?
How much lighter are they than originals?
I have a '96 SB-1 in the shop and wouldn't mind shaving a little weight off.
I did, on early 90s SB-2 that had Schaller branded tuners. Direct fit, and great improvement (much lighter).
That's an interesting one! I'd remove the screw from one of the other saddles at take it to my local Ace Hardware Store to find a match.
I noticed last night while watching some live footage of Toto on their current tour, that John Pierce (Pablo Cruise and Huey Lewis & The News) is using a 5 string G&L Kiloton!
But not from the E string. That one may be slightly shorter. I don't know if G&L does that with their saddle bolts but I have seen where others do.
I can post some better pictures tomorrow but wanted to share that my LB-100 arrived and it's perfect 
I have two questions for you all:
1) Keep the black pickup covers or swap them for white ones?
2) I like to use Schaller S locks on all my basses but started using the Fender lock strap buttons recently because they're cheaper. Has anyone done this on a G&L bass? The screw used by G&L is much longer and also looks to be thicker (in the attached picture, G&L strap button is on the right)
I have two questions for you all:
1) Keep the black pickup covers or swap them for white ones?
2) I like to use Schaller S locks on all my basses but started using the Fender lock strap buttons recently because they're cheaper. Has anyone done this on a G&L bass? The screw used by G&L is much longer and also looks to be thicker (in the attached picture, G&L strap button is on the right)
Attachments
I have an emerald green Kiloton with an aged pearl pickguard. I put a white cover on the pickup and it really dressed it up, so I vote for white. I've also put Dunlop strap locks on a couple G&Ls and they've been just fine. I don't know how their screws compare to the Schaller's or the Fender's screws, but I've had no problems so far.I can post some better pictures tomorrow but wanted to share that my LB-100 arrived and it's perfect
I have two questions for you all:
1) Keep the black pickup covers or swap them for white ones?
2) I like to use Schaller S locks on all my basses but started using the Fender lock strap buttons recently because they're cheaper. Has anyone done this on a G&L bass? The screw used by G&L is much longer and also looks to be thicker (in the attached picture, G&L strap button is on the right)
