SB-2 Neck: impressions?

[ahiddentableau]

Hey guys,

I'm interested in the SB-2 bass, but I'm wondering about the neck. From the specs on the website, it sounds like it's close to a fender jazz neck but with either a 7-1/4" or 12" instead of a 9-1/2" radius. Any impressions on how that this changes the feel? I've played a 90s US jazz bass and really liked the neck, but I've no experience with either the narrower or wider radiused necks. Also wondering if there're any other significant differences you guys can think of.

Thanks!

 

[ljazz]

The 12" feels a heck of a lot flatter. I'm a fan of the 7 1/4" radius, but it simply a preference.

Some say the flatter radius allows for lower action, and I tend to agree with that, as the smaller radius brings the frets closer to the string (not where you're playing, but adjacent to the string). I see this more with the 1 1/2 width than I do with the 1 3/4 width.

Ljazz

 

[Nedmundo]

My two main basses are a 2003 American Series Jazz and a 2007 SB-2 with the 1.5" nut and 12" radius. The SB-2 has a fuller rear profile, and in that respect feels a little like a modern Precision with the 1.625" nut width. Otherwise, yes, the 12" radius feels flatter than the Fender's 9.5", but I transition between the two easily.

My Jazz has fabulous playability. But the G&L has slightly lower action and near effortless playability, which might be related to the radius, but is almost certainly related to the Plek machine at the G&L factory. In fact, I plan to get the Plek treatment for two of my Fenders.

 

[ahiddentableau]

Awesome, thanks for the help.

Anyone know how long G&L has been using a PLEK machine?

 

[Nedmundo]

G&L started with the Plek in 2006, I believe around mid-year.