setup for 4-string fretless

[randlk]

I almost hate to ask because I know everyone else on the forum already has the answer, but I really need help setting up my fretless. The setup, when I got it , was exqisite. However, it was strung with roundwounds, which I immediately changed to nylon tapewounds. Now I can't seem to get it back to optimum performance. I keep geting string buzz, no matter what i do (and I really don't want my strings to be 1/4" or higher off the fingerboard) but then I see people talking about "that fretless string-buzz" and I think, "Have I missed something?"

 

[xyllion]

You probably need to adjust the truss rod. Look at the following link for lots of good info: Invalid Link Removed

 

[Justyn]

You probably need to adjust the truss rod. Look at the following link for lots of good info: Invalid Link Removed

+1

I've found Gary Willis' site extremely helpful for clear, step-by-step instructions on setting up a fretless bass.

J.

 

[Hambone]

I almost hate to ask because I know everyone else on the forum already has the answer, but I really need help setting up my fretless. The setup, when I got it , was exqisite. However, it was strung with roundwounds, which I immediately changed to nylon tapewounds. Now I can't seem to get it back to optimum performance. I keep geting string buzz, no matter what i do (and I really don't want my strings to be 1/4" or higher off the fingerboard) but then I see people talking about "that fretless string-buzz" and I think, "Have I missed something?"

Your problem stems from the fact that the nylon wound strings are thicker than their all metal counterparts. They have the same amount of metal in them - they have to so they can give the pickup something to "read" but the nylon is added to the diameter - not compensated for.

Begin all of your study and approach to the problem with this in mind.

 

[randlk]

Thank you all for your help and advice. I am a coward and will probably never adjust that truss rod myself. I finally took the bass to my local luthier for a new set-up, and now it plays wonderfully, again!

 

[JAL]

COngrats Randlk. Nothin like a smooth playin fretless/