How Clean Are Your Hands - Before Playing Bass?

[Rib 13]

I understand the back of the neck thing, but the residue on the strings thing I don't believe in, guys cleaning their strings, things like that. I don't believe the oils from you're fingers will alter the sound of you're bass one bit. Makes me think of the ridiculous crap audiophiles believe in

natural oils, your body's pH, and -hygiene can certainly shorten string life - by that way, it can change tone

 

[wraub]

Playing my basses- As clean as possible.

Playing yours- Cleaner.

 

[dramatwist]

...Jaco used to say he left the chicken grease on his hands before playing, but I'll bet it's a big story...

 

[corganmurray]

Just before a set I usually run my two picking fingers down my forehead and nose haha this started when I was a greasy teen and it was just enough oil to keep my fingers from being too dry. 38 years old and I still do it every set.

 

[SimonSays32]

...Jaco used to say he left the chicken grease on his hands before playing, but I'll bet it's a big story...

I think I remember a story about Danny Gatton pouring beer on his guitar strings - I mean I get it, it's all about what feels comfortable.

 

[kmon]

always freshly washed before personal practice, freshly washed twice before a long rehearsal or show

everything feels slicker, faster, better to me with clean hands

 

[Picton]

One of many, many things I’ve never even remotely worried about.

 

[joebeadg]

I think my strings are around 15 yrs old. I think not washing might be extending my string life, my bass also sounds great!

 

[joebeadg]

But I will wash of course if they are dirty, I mean from greasy food or something like that. Feels better on the neck.

 

[bigboy_78]

At gigs I usually scoff down a burger and a beer after I set-up. Then I wipe my hands on my jeans and get into it.