Headstock question

[Bleecker]

Howdy?
I've been looking at a lot of footage and photos of ZZ Top lately. I have been a big fan for years. Dusty is one of my hero's for sure, the whole band is.

So on many of Dusty's basses the headstock is upside down, I always noticed this but never really considered why, besides looking cool. Is there any advantage to this? Are there different stings to use as the bottom string is now the longest? Or is it just a cool vintage look thing?

Thanks!

 

[mdogs]

Can of worms issue. But, the only reason is looks. You shouldn’t need different strings, if it’s a 34” scale, standard long scale strings will fit on a top loaded bridge, not sure about through body.

 

[bholder]

Some think it somehow changes the tone of the low E for the better, but Physics says otherwise. It looks cool and is easier on the left wrist when tuning, that's all.

 

[Bleecker]

Thanks y'all!