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Short Scale Bass Advice

Discussion in 'Basses [BG]' started by AlBloke, Jun 8, 2019.

  1. Jun 8, 2019 #1
    AlBloke

    AlBloke

    Jun 8, 2019
    Hey gang, long time reader, first time poster.....
    So I currently have 2 shortscale vintage MusicMaster Basses after having a Mustang short scale for a long time, the music masters sound amazing, the pick ups are great, however, Im having a problem with clipping, with both guitars! I've taken them to very reputable guitar techs who can't seem to fix the problem, has anyone else experienced this?
    They have both been serviced, adjusted, we have tried everything, any help would be greatly appreciated
     
  2. Jun 8, 2019 #2
    JohnArnson

    JohnArnson

    May 28, 2019
    You mean clipping as distorting your signal?

    I would think it would likely be a problem in your signal chain and not your bass, most likely the preamp of your bass amp.

    If it is your bass it has to be your pickups, and then it would likely be because they have a too hot output, which should be able to solve by lowering them further from the strings, or at least in the least instance replacing them.
     
  3. Jun 8, 2019 #3
    AlBloke

    AlBloke

    Jun 8, 2019
    Thanks! Def not amp as have tried several different backline amps, have also lowered pick ups right down on both basses as we also thought that may be the problem.
    And yes, clipping as in distorting every now and then, its weird, go back to the mustang and its gone, just happens to be both music masters.
     
  4. Jun 8, 2019 #4
    Kelly robinson

    Kelly robinson

    Dec 30, 2014
    Post more info about your amp - how it's set etc - and you'll get sound advice around here { pun intended ! ] - I agree it's likely how your amp is set more than anything electronic or a set up flaw with your bass BUT that assumes the repair guys you tried really did know what they're doing when they worked on it . You can try some simple things too like changing out your cord [ not likely the issue but easy enough to do ] and making sure the pickup distance to the string is within recommended parameters . I'm sure you'll get help here - Kelly
     
  5. Jun 8, 2019 #5
    Kelly robinson

    Kelly robinson

    Dec 30, 2014
    Since you tried lowering the pickups and the problem is intermittent - and you've swapped out amps - I'd guess it kinda has to be a wiring issue - a loose one at the jack or pots or a bad solder joint that acts up on occasion but my repair experience is all self taught by trial and mostly error so don't take it for gospel .... Sorry I can't offer more advice - Kelly
     
  6. Jun 14, 2019 #6
    Dale Johnson

    Dale Johnson

    Jul 22, 2008
    Moran Kansas
    Any luck on your quest? The odds that it is both basses are slim if it started with both basses at the same time. Did one start first followed by the other? Did both basses get worked on at the same time? Both dropped or hit? Could it be the another possibility? is the instrument cable causing the problem?
    If it is in both basses I would chase solder joints, dirty pots, loose connections and lastly it could be inside the pick ups. The original pup is an old strat pup, and wires could be wearing past insulation or breaking after the wax poting goes away with time. I hope this helps, let us know what you find!