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Looking into starting Fretless work

I

Iris_Bassist13

Nov 24, 2008
72
0
#1
I have mainly played four and five strings (and occasionally a six-er) since I've been a bassist. I have recently been listening to plenty of Jaco, Michael Manring, Jeff Schmidt and the like. I really want to get into Fretless work and I figured the holidays would be my best bet to score a decently priced fretless.

The only real fretless I've looked at that is within my range is the Squier fretless, however I hate line markers and would rather have a solid unlined fretboard...but I dont know what kind of good starter fretless is in my price range.

I'm looking for a 200-4/500 fretless unlined with some decent sound.

Any suggestions?

Oh....and currently GASing for a Tony Franklin fretless.....lordy the sound outta that baby....woof

Thanks :help: :bassist:
 
#2
Check out the used market for fretless Carvins and the like. They're USA made factory basses that'll resell for $250-$800. They're great. I have one that I might let go of soon just because I want something different. (Damn you GAS!)

^That is not me trying to plug my bass for a sale, by the way.
 
#5
My top 2 pieces of advice for fretless:

1) Try a lot of basses and find what you like
2) Buy used so you don't lose money if your tastes change. My Carvin cost me $425 for a US made active 5 string lined fretless. GREAT deal.
 
#7
lonote said:
I would look for a MIJ fretless Jazz Bass if I was you. They are not lined and can be had for $400 +/-.
Click to expand...

+1 - These are the best I've played in that range.

And I'm with the OP on GAS for a Tony Franklin fretless. I've not played a billion fretless basses, but, so far, that's the nicest one I've played. They rarely come available on the used market, although there is one now available here on TB.

I'm having difficulty finding one I can afford. JUST MISSED (by $20) one at the right price on eBay.
 
#10
I used to have a late 90s Dean Edge 5 fretless, it was very, very nice. They've made them lined and unlined through the years. The Brice basses from Rondo Music are quite good for the money also. One of my main basses is a 6 string unlined "V2" fretless from Brice/Rondo.

Personally, I wouldn't let lined or unlined be a factor in your decision. I've owned and played both, currently own one of each. Neither is easier or harder to play. However, I agree unlined boards have a certain aesthetic that some (including myself) find very attractive.

There are a zillion options in your price range used, and at least a few dozen new.

I don't like the ebay bass you linked to - the tuners are for the wrong side of the headstock, installed backwards. - Too weird for me.

Have fun!
 

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