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Side jack question.

magic8161

Supporting Member
Mar 4, 2003
1,545
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Milwaukee
www.jimmyprinceshow.com
What's a good jack to replace this stock jack with. I would like to put one on the pickguard but not sure if a 2013 eb-4 pickguard will fit on a 2014 gibson eb-4. The one on the bass was loose. I tightened it from the inside and it seems fine but was just wondering if there was something better.
 

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Looks to me like the standard "barrel" or "panel" style jack which is commonly available from guitar parts suppliers. You just fixed the physical floppiness so I think you're good to go. Going by the other components on my Gibson EB-5, they probably used a quality jack, not a flimsy budget one, so probably no need - or way - to upgrade. (There was a more expensive make with redundant plug contacts. I tried to order one once and it was out of stock, now they're not even available.)
This style jack isn't my favorite but it should be reliable enough for a while - a lot of higher end makers use it.
If the electronic connection becomes intermittent in the future, you will need to replace it. Switchcraft is a trusted brand - I would avoid anything cheaper.
I have the 5-string version of your bass from 2013 with the top mounted "standard" jack. There is a certain "cool" factor but it's not all gravy; the pickguard and/or screws can get strained over time if you're not careful unplugging. After using both styles a bunch, over the years I've made my peace with side mounted barrel jacks. In your situation, I would not bother trying to source a 2013 pickguard (and plugging the old side hole) just for the sake of the jack.
I suppose if you really wanted to convert to the standard style jack (which allows you to manually bend the contacts) you could ream out the side more and install a "football" or cup-style jack plate. (The Electrosocket is pretty beefy.) I do prefer that style but I don't think it's worth the trouble to convert.
HTH
 
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Thanks. It's in there tight but I was wondering if they were any good since I been a fender Precision type guy my whole life. I dont think I ever played a better bass then this one. I bought it 2 days ago from a guy who bought it new in 2014 and never played it. It's new. But the jack was loose. But it's fixed now a d I sure enjoy this one.
 

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