Should I repair a 40 year old Ibanez violin bass?

I'm not an expert but I wouldn't pay over $400 offer $300. ITS AN IBANEZ! Was like 69.95 new. How is it worth 6 bones now? It isn't.

Rusted pup screws mean nothing, just brush the rust off and squirt some Deoxit on them.

Take the bridge apart and put the metal bits in some pb blaster or similar to soak. Separate the parts, brush the loose corrosion off. Let them soak. Dry them off. Reassemble.

Scratch plate clips are easy to find, you'll likely have to mod it a bit to fit. Or get some stainless sheet and make one.

The binding can be stabilized with careful use of CA glue. Cracks are patina so as long as it isn't falling off it's fine.

 

Without benefit of pics and further model information, $600 might be a little steep. Try EBay's completed and/or sold listings and Google the model etc. However, the binding and the rust, those are insignificant problems. Rust is easily handled. Oftentimes, just a wire brush attachment on your drill will buff most, if not all of that away. Combine with what 96tbird said, should be no problems.

 

No. Just no.

If you want to learn bass, do the sensible thing and buy one of the common, reliable starter basses available. My first was a Yamaha RBX 170. It was rock solid and only $150 bucks new. I sold it later for the same amount.

If you buy that pile-o-problems, you'll only regret it and risk turning yourself off playing the instrument. Worse, you'll mourn the laughable hole in your wallet.

 

Way too much money. heck you can get a used Guild Pilot, (one of the most underrated basses of all time) in mint condition for between $300 and $400!

 

I agree, and I'm a fan of basses from that period. The violin bass is cool, but don't put yourself through the hassle. There are many really good basses out there used for a LOT less than $600.

 

$600??? Uh.....NO! Even in mint condition, I wouldn't pay anywhere near that.

 

The price seems very steep. If the bass was in perfect condition then yes, $600 would be reasonable considering that older ibby's are starting to be collectable. But if it needs work, then definitely no.

Also, if you're new to bass from guitar, welcome. I, myself was a guitarist for years before falling in love with and switching to bass.

One thing: you mentioned "neck dive". Deal breaker for me.

 

Nothing really wrong with a good short scale, though you might get a funny look now and then or "size matters" type comments.

 

Unless you just happen to have very dexterous fingers, the "five fret stretch" is something learned with time. I started on the RBX170, but moved on to a contemporary series Hofner Club Bass. Again, 30". Never think of short scale as lacking, it's just a different instrument. Over time I needed a 34" for added sustain, but that's dependent upon you.

Keep looking. Everything you mentioned in your last post is a well-received instrument that would serve you well. Also important, keep reading and feel free to ask questions. There's a wealth of knowledge on this site and many are willing to share.

 

look at the Squiers ss versions. good players. Small price tags. If you like viola basses look at used Epiphones. About $225 on most boards well made too

 

When in doubt, get a simple, passive, solid body, bolt on neck 4 string bass (there is a reason there are lots of Precisions and P clones out there). Make your life easy. You can always get a project later.

 

I'd strongly recommend against learning bass on an instrument with a serious neck-dive problem. You'll quickly develop bad habits in both your fretting and plucking hands from having to keep the bass in position.

Better choice: a brand new Squier, either P or J. Cheap and serviceable. Try a few out at a music store.

 

And, why no.. drumroll... PIC!

 

This is the reason why the Squier Affinity Bass Pak is a Precision clone. Set up, tune up, play.

 

This is the reason why the Squier Affinity Bass Pak is a Precision clone.