Hi! I'm a beginner with GAS. I've recently loaned (with an option to purchase, subject to agreeing on a price) a Squier MB-4 MIJ from 1993/94 that isn't in perfect condition. One particular concern is the finish - there seem to be cracks all over the surface. While I know reliced basses are a thing, I'm not sure if these cracks will be harmful to the wood in the long run?
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Question on Relic basses
- Thread starter 9W2XQN
- Start date
I'm going to say no problem at all.
All is fine.
Those are superficial cracks in the finish. The underlying wood is fine.
Enjoy!
Those are superficial cracks in the finish. The underlying wood is fine.
Enjoy!
This is a test of your willpower. The wood will probably still "be fine" if you do pick, but the finish may start coming off in large, thick flakes, which may cause problems for your hands and fingers.
On the other hand, there's something about a finish coming off in large flakes that's appealing, as well.
The finish on the wood will not effect the tonal qualities of a solidbody in any meaningful way.
OK. the bass itself seems pretty decent to play, although I don't have a good amp at the moment to see how good it really sounds. Was just worried about things like moisture seeping between the cracks and damaging the wood underneath, or that thumb-sized bit of exposed wood deteriorating as the years go by.
As with any solid-body instrument, avoid drastically dry or humid environments and it should be fine.
Nah. I understand your concern, but it's not a worry as long as you don't get really crazy with your humidity swings.
Enjoy it!
If you keep the bass (agreed with above comments that the cracks and chips pose no functional problem), I'd suggest you buff the frets with a Scotchbrite pad so they're shiny. IME it just feels way nicer to play. The first time you plan to restring, take all the strings off, buff the frets, and oil the board before putting the new strings on. Planet Waves Hydrate works well, but there are other good products to use.
(0000 steel wool was traditionally used for that polish job, but it will shed metal particles that will be attracted to the pole pieces of the pups. The metal bits are hard to clean off completely. A Scotchbrite pad will save you that PITA.)
(0000 steel wool was traditionally used for that polish job, but it will shed metal particles that will be attracted to the pole pieces of the pups. The metal bits are hard to clean off completely. A Scotchbrite pad will save you that PITA.)
The most important thing is the neck. If the truss rod works, it’s not warped and there are no cracks, go for it. Sometimes the nicest playing basses are the ones with a lot of wear like that.
And pickups.
hey, at least you know this is a "natural" relic job, not a fake (not that theres anything wrong with that)
Those MB's were not highly regarded, But IMO it is a solid instrument for the right price.
This would be a good candidate to strip and do a cheap rattle can refinish.
If the cracks were an issue I think the bass would have fallen apart 20 years ago.
If the cracks were an issue I think the bass would have fallen apart 20 years ago.
Mom always said "dont pick at it"..
.....alot of guys would be fapping all over that relic job...those frets almost look green, or its my eyes.....Nice find if the price is right..
.....alot of guys would be fapping all over that relic job...those frets almost look green, or its my eyes.....Nice find if the price is right..
