NBD: Lowe Customs Ridler

[mfbolton]

Very excited to add this to my arsenal. Lowe Custom Guitars Ridler Bass. I had Brad put one of his 32" scale necks on it. It is definitely love at first sight. I've always thought it was a cool design, and it looks better in person. The balance is great, and the tummy and forearm cuts fit me perfectly. The hardware is top quality. Brad sets up his electronics as plug and play, so I had him send Lollar and Fralin pickups. The Lollars are currently installed and I like them a lot. I will swap in the Fralins and try them soon. More details and observations as I break her in, for now enjoy the photos.

 

[fretno]

That is stunning ! HNBD

 

[BTL]

Beautiful shots!

It's always a humbling experience to have an instrument leave the shop and head out into the world.

It's like watching my daughters play sports as kids...pride and butterflies all at the same time.

 

[M.R. Ogle]

Gotta hand it to you, Brad. You have a very distinctive style and established aesthetic. This latest one appears to be your interpretation of a Ric.... and it's wonderful.

 

[A-Step-Towards]

Love it, the lollipops are a great touch as well as the wood binding.

 

[2saddleslab]

That's a stunner! Congrats, OP! Well done, Brad!

 

[rllefebv]

Wowzers!!

-robert

 

[Gully Foyle]

fantastic bass - ugh, bringing up all my Ridler GAS

 

[mfbolton]

I should also mention that Brad, @BeeTL has been great to work with. He has answered all my questions about different options and been very timely in his communication.

 

[Rowka]

electro-ϟ-formed

 

[BTL]

electro-ϟ-formed

Kissed by Fire.

 

[StuartV]

Brad is making some cool stuff! Congrats!

 

[mfbolton]

I've spent some time with both sets of pickups. I'm going to go with the Lollars on this bass. To my ear they have a bit more "meat" to the sound. I can certainly see other ways I could use the Fralins, but for what I'm wanting out of this bass the Lollars are a perfect solution.

I was planning to shoot a video comparing them, but unfortunately my camera has crapped out on me.

 

[JRA]

for now enjoy the photos.

It's always a humbling experience to have an instrument leave the shop

really nice! congrats to you both!

 

[BTL]

I've spent some time with both sets of pickups. I'm going to go with the Lollars on this bass. To my ear they have a bit more "meat" to the sound. I can certainly see other ways I could use the Fralins, but for what I'm wanting out of this bass the Lollars are a perfect solution.

I was planning to shoot a video comparing them, but unfortunately my camera has crapped out on me.

Cool..I'm glad you are enjoying the Lollars!

What makes these basses fun for me as a builder is the versatility they offer in pickup options without modification.

really nice! congrats to you both!

Thanks!

 

[mfbolton]

Every time I pick up this bass I am blown away at how great the neck feels. Supe comfortable profile and the finish is so smooth. I love playing this thing.

 

[Wolfhound32]

Sweet-- congrats!!

 

[mapleglo]

That Ridler is just spectacular!

 

[BTL]

Every time I pick up this bass I am blown away at how great the neck feels. Supe comfortable profile and the finish is so smooth. I love playing this thing.

That's really fantastic to hear!

I'm curious...how much of that has to do with reach, do you think?

The 32" scale conversion neck reduces the reach a full 2" on any body, and I wonder how much that factors into the overall experience?

Thanks again!

 

[mfbolton]

That's really fantastic to hear!

I'm curious...how much of that has to do with reach, do you think?

The 32" scale conversion neck reduces the reach a full 2" on any body, and I wonder how much that factors into the overall experience?

Thanks again!

I think the scale certainly plays a factor, but the shape and finish play a big part as well. I really think the tactile feel of this finish is among the best I've ever had in my hands.