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Ideas for a MM build.....

#24
Well, I suppose an update on thought processes is in order. In reviewing costs of parts, I have changed my mind about the neck; I will use rock maple instead of curly- it will be stronger and reinforcement will not be necessary..save some money on CF rods. I have a truss rod, still wrapped, from a former project; I also have a set of Grover Titans (bent ear) and a Neutrik locking jack from this project. I was going with the idea of a 2+2 headstock (thanks begumi) but, that would require a scarf joint, and, as pointed out by Knucklehead G, the instructors may not approve. If I keep it simple, with a traditional 3+1 headstock, it might go through. Plus, with a simplistic headstock, they might approve the contoured body. I will still use the alder/redwood body, the Honduran RW fretboard, abalone dots, and my logo will be an oval of paua abalone with some scribe/fill work. CTMullins blew me away by donating to the cause, a bridge, cavity cover, and a battery clip. I am truly floored and can't wait to pay it forward. As a tribute to all the help that I have received from this community, I will be writing a dedication on the back of the headstock, before clearcoating. The class starts in August, and, as soon as I receive the lumber, the pictures will be comin' (provided the staff allows it, I don't see why not). String -thru body, Nordy MM, Bart 3 band, all kinds of funky goodness. I say again, thanks to all who have contributed, and chomping at the bit for my first build and the start of a career.
Sincerely,

Thumpin_P
 
#27
BruceBass3901 said:
I really cannot wait to see this start to take shape :) Subbed
Click to expand...

Thanks Bruce! Believe me when I tell you that no one is more excited than me! I just hate that I have to wait until August to start school! Knucklehead G just suggested a build-off between us, with the LC being the judges. Rating on fit and finish, pickup alignment, etc... I am totally in for it, providing the staff of the school allows us to photograph and post our progress. Again, I don't see why not. I am more excited by the day, and my soon-to-be ex-wife is more disgusted by me talking about it(one of the reasons for divorce). Thanks again to the LC for all their support!

Thumpin_P
 
#28
Thumpin_P said:
Knucklehead G just suggested a build-off between us, with the LC being the judges. Rating on fit and finish, pickup alignment, etc... I am totally in for it, providing the staff of the school allows us to photograph and post our progress. Again, I don't see why not.
Click to expand...

I'll ask Bart on Monday if you can take photos during, since I have to call about some financial aid stuff anyways. It'll be fun seeing what two n00bs (supervised by pros) can accomplish.
 
#31
BruceBass3901 said:
I did a bit of a mix for my first build, taking the guts from a HH Stingray and sticking them in modified Jazz bass body :) Best bass I have ever owned. All the balls-to-the-wall tone of a Stingray with the gorgeous curves of a Jazz bass :)
Click to expand...

Sounds great Bruce!! I had toyed with the idea of adding a neck J pickup, but, I thought with everything else going on, and this being my first build, I should stick with the important parts. That being said, as you have time, as I do, before you start the build, and realize the cost of all the bells-and-whistles(which you think is a good idea at the time), you realize what is essential to the concept, and what is just...pretty. I want this( as it will only be for me, not a customer) to be a comfortable, funk mosheen. Capable of many different styles, and a usable tool for most styles of music. I had always wanted a contoured body, a Stingray, and active/passive electronics. With these plans, I have it all. The only thing that might not get approval from the staff at R-V is the contoured body, which will break my heart. I know how to do it, the only problem that I forsee is cutting out the neck pocket. I would think: cut the slabs, cut out the basic shape, including neck pocket heel, before joining; join them then drill and shape the neck pocket. If anyone reading this has a better idea, please clue me in.This is one of the best ways to learn, IMHO..., ask!

As always, thanks to all for stories, advice, and any other kind of help!

Thumpin_P
 
#32
Having gone through RV myself, i can say that the contoured body back is 99% not gonna happen. It also complicates things in a few ways that I doubt your anticipating (electronics cavity being the first to jump to mind)

Also, keep in mind...its your first build, so it probably wont be your best, know what I mean?

I would recommend that you do something with a figured top and a bursted finish for the experience of doing it. Otherwise Id say stick to simple, inexpensive materials that you wont hate yourself if you slip up on. Hardware on the other hand may be worth droppin bucks on...you can alway put it on your next one :)

Wood selection is limited for the most part to what they have on hand, which is actually a pretty good selection, and for something species, really good quality. They will NOT sell you some outragous piece of AAAAAAA curly bubinga for a student instrument...theres only so much of it out there, and like I said, everyone makes mistakes, especially first timers.

I realize this sounds like Im sayin everyones first instruments suck...they dont! Its just that each time you build one you get better and better.

This is gettin long, but definately PM if you have any questions about RV. I had a great time and learned alot there...you will too!
 
#33
You bring up some good points, Thrash. 1) the experience; doing a bursted finish would definitely fit the bill. 2) I had hoped that I would be the 1% that would be approved, but, the electronics cavity might be a bit hairy. 3) I was unaware that we would be using wood in stock, so that might work to my benefit.

With yourself being a RV alumni, I appreciate any input you might have. I wish that I didn't have to rethink the contoured idea, but, such is life. I will definitely hit you up on PM, thanks for the offer!

Keep 'em comin' guys! I am a sponge for knowledge and, you never know, this might help someone else, too!

Thumpin_P
 
#34
Well guys,

I suppose an update is in order. Knucklehead G and myself are both pretty solid in our plans. Everything seems to be falling into place for August schedule. Knucklehead has (i think) decided on a Jaguar (that doesn't suck) and I will be continuing with the Stingray. I will say that the competition will be a new thread, and I will link it from this one. If there are any updates, I will be sure to post. Thanks again, guys.

Thumpin_P
 
#36
Me too!! started laying out the bridge placement, pickup position, and nut. Tomorrow I will lay out the strings, neck, frets, and hopefully determine neck pocket. I had forgotten how much I liked figuring out the math. I do know that I need better straightedges, though. That's where the school comes in! BETTER TOOLS!!!!!!
 

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