Preparing a bass guitar

At the risk of sounding obvious, why don't you just ask him what he would like you to do?

 

I'd intonate it, and make sure truss rod is set decent. Check the search function on "Truss rod adjustment". Then I'd set the string height. I wouldn't worry about the preamp, since you don't even know if it's active (I'd bet it is, Ibanez Vari-mid, but I'm too tired to search for it )

And I'd prolly change the strings first, if they are dead. Just basic stuff I'd check/do the day before a show.

 

I think what you have done in terms of checking that the strings are in tune and the battery is new is enough. As far as the setup of the bass is concerned, leave that alone. If this is his bass, it would be set up the way he wants it - don't change the action or the way it plays. I wouldn't change the string height at all, without his permission.

 

Yep.

 

I'd agree with Bass Guitar - if the guy is wanting a professional setup then he'd get one!!


I'd check/change strings as necessary (check guage as this would help sorting out intonation), check/ change batteries, clean grubby fingerprints off (if applicable), check pots (clean/lubricate if necessary/crackling),check strap buttons are secure and leave pretty much everything else alone.