SPECTOR® Club - Part 73

[dorknowitzki]

NBD! My first Spector bass as an endorsed artist. I like the factory setup but I didnt like the gauge so I changed the strings to something heavier for drop tuning . Whew im so excited to play this tonight. Just got this an hour ago. Waited since October of last year hehe

 

[djaxup]

Yeah nice holoflash Spector man I'd love to hear your feedback.

 

[djaxup]

Anybody ever try stringing a 34 inch scale Spector BEAD? How is the B sting floppiness?

works like a charm. I had BEAD on my Rebop for a while and the B was great, every played note was distinguishable and it was absolutely not floppy in any way.

I just discovered that drop-D is enough for all my needs and i am used to it, so all my learned songs didn't quite work with BEAD, and I absolutely missed the G.

 

[Betrayer_Bass]

NBD! My first Spector bass as an endorsed artist. I like the factory setup but I didnt like the gauge so I changed the strings to something heavier for drop tuning . Whew im so excited to play this tonight. Just got this an hour ago. Waited since October of last year hehe

Congratulations on the endorsement! And the lovely new bass! And welcome to the family

 

[anton72]

Got the Darkglass Duality fuzz and have my mini-pedalbord complete now overdrive+synth+fuzz. Just don't need anything else.

 

[dorknowitzki]

Congratulations on the endorsement! And the lovely new bass! And welcome to the family

thank you sir! i'll be alternating this with my performer. that will be my beaters bass hehe. i want moar spector, maybe a coda before moving on to the euros and us btw, the new performers that arrived to my local distributor were made in korea and had PJ pup config. just wow

 

[Betrayer_Bass]

thank you sir! i'll be alternating this with my performer. that will be my beaters bass hehe. i want moar spector, maybe a coda before moving on to the euros and us btw, the new performers that arrived to my local distributor were made in korea and had PJ pup config. just wow

That is pretty impressive. There are no distributors close to me, the only official one I know of is about 4 hours drive away.

I went from ReBop to Euro and am now planning my second Euro. USA Spectors are insanely hard to get here. I'd have to go to the USA, buy one and carry it home myself. On the plane, of course

 

[johnsonabq]

You don't necessarily need those gauges to tune BEAD. The LaBella M70s are just 0.005" larger in diameter than standard/medium gauge (.050, .070, 0.090, 0.110), and they worked. They aren't as tight as standard E-tuned, medium-gauge strings, but I knew that wasn't gonna happen.
The bridge and/or neck nut on a 4 won't accommodate a 0.125 string without some creative filing, right?

It's always been my intention that if I go to a BEAD tuning on a four string the nut would be swapped out for one that would accommodate the higher gauge strings. I believe this is what would happen if you were to order a Euro435 set up in BEAD. They would put a nut on the bass designed for larger strings.

After having played fivers for so many years it wouldn't seem/feel right to me to not use the same gauge strings as the fiver if on a 35" scale and something close to compensate for a 34" scale.

 

[NOLA Bass]

It's always been my intention that if I go to a BEAD tuning on a four string the nut would be swapped out for one that would accommodate the higher gauge strings. I believe this is what would happen if you were to order a Euro435 set up in BEAD. They would put a nut on the bass designed for larger strings.

After having played fivers for so many years it wouldn't seem/feel right to me to not use the same gauge strings as the fiver if on a 35" scale and something close to compensate for a 34" scale.

Here's my quick take. My cover band that did old school metal tuned to DGCF because it helped us with vocals. I used my Euro 4LX strung with .110 sets to keep the tension a little tighter.

When we started our original project (same members), the writing ended up going towards a heavier sound and we tuned down to CFBbEb. I was using my NS4, but immediately found the sound really changed going that low. I purchased 2 Euro 435LX's because I like how the 35" scale tightens up the sound. I am using a .115 set of strings. This has been the best for me in regards to the sound I want. When I got my 2nd Euro 435 (from Andy Bunk), it had a set starting at .135's on it. This just really didn't give me the sound I was looking for.

On a 34" scale, I think you'd need to go to at least a .125 to offset any floppiness tuned down to low B. You could buy a 5 string set and toss the high string. You could also go to Bass Strings Online. I order custom sets of Blue Steels. I love that I can get my string of choice in my guage of choice.

 

[NOLA Bass]

I'll also point out how much tonally those lower tunings can change things. Quite honestly, I thought my NS4 really lost some of its magic tuned down to "C". The 35" scale ones just sound tighter and cut through at those detunings. I have no idea if your guitarist are tuned down but that definitely becomes a factor the lower they go. In fact, one of our guitarists just switched from his Jacksons to getting two Gibson SG's because they cut through at the low tunings better than the Jackson does. I have rethought amps, how I set them, what pedals I use, etc. It can definitely turn into "one thing leads to another"!!!! ; )

 

[iceboxbass]

I have it. It's pretty good but I think the GK app sounds better.

I have the GK APP as well...good APP. My thinking was to setup my iPad with all of these Amp APPs, backup song tracks, sheet music/cord sheets and use these in place of paper sheet music/cord sheets and amps on the stage, by using the mic stand mounting adapter...but I'm just enjoying the tone I get from my old fashion bass rigs on/off stage, and I'm satisfied with that...and as long as the listeners are happy, I'm good with the old way. I mess around with the apps at home when I have time...as rare as that is these days with 2 bands of music to practice for, gigging 2+ days per week.

I had my ReBop in the shop for a couple days getting two of the pots switched out( I can't solder worth a darn, I just screw it up), so I know what it feels like when your baby's gone or out of commission.

All it takes to be good at soldering is some practicing. I learned at a very early age after watching my dad. Then in 9th grade I took basic electronics in high school which involved soldering all the time, then when I went into the Air Force at 17 yrs. young the job field I went into, Aircraft Weapons Systems Repair involved trouble shooting/repairing/modifying Fighter Jet weapons systems wiring, so our Technical school had a 2 weeks of nothing but doing soldering and getting it right, for obvious reasons. Just take some time to practice on pieces of wire...find instruction videos to help you along. For me, it's economics and satisfaction of doing it yourself plus saving that money from not paying a tech, and putting that money saved for more Spectors and bass equipment. Peace

Anybody ever try stringing a 34 inch scale Spector BEAD? How is the B sting floppiness?

Yes, I converted my former NS-2A to BEAD, but I ordered a custom made nut string for that. You can file the current nut also but I wanted to save my original string nut in case I wanted to put it back to the original tuning. Some here have used round wound strings as a file to enlarge the string nut slots.

I already know the answer to this one:

You don't, you buy 5 string sets and eat the G string, or if you are lucky and can find a store and brand that will sell you single strings, there are a few of those around, like bassstringsonline.com.

I used to order a 5 string set before I found BSO. Sometimes I can't find the 5 string set that has a B string size that I'm looking for so I'll order a 4 string set and order a single for the B. Jason is a super guy that way! He takes care of us very well! Thanks Jason!

You don't necessarily need those gauges to tune BEAD. The LaBella M70s are just 0.005" larger in diameter than standard/medium gauge (.050, .070, 0.090, 0.110), and they worked. They aren't as tight as standard E-tuned, medium-gauge strings, but I knew that wasn't gonna happen.
The bridge and/or neck nut on a 4 won't accommodate a 0.125 string without some creative filing, right?

Maybe...it seems some Euro bridges have problems accepting the larger strings...Korean and USA bridges I've not had any problems fitting larger diameter strings.

Just like short scales sound fatter than long, lighter strings can sound great at low tunings. Its not that chimey piano sound, its more fat and round. Loving my NS4 PJ at Eb with 45-105 steel lo riders, would do fine at D or even Db. If you went 115 at B that should be in the same ballpark on tension.

Really??? I've owned both scales, currently playing 35" for my last 2 USA Spector custom orders, IMHO, I find the 35" scale basses has the bigger fuller sound. But, it's always player preferences. Plus so many other variables have a play in the tone i.e. Preamp, strings, material of bass body, neck and fretboard, etc...

No issues with the nut slots here. That's my usual gauge as well. As for the necks, their usually extremely stable. Slam that puppy low ( preferably with some fret buzz) and it should stay there forever. I rarely ever have to adjust my necks once I get them where I want them ( a hair of relief from flat). Here's the cool part. Play around with the set up a bit, you'll be surprised what different set ups will do for the tone of these basses. A little buzz brings out the growl, dropping the pickups will alter it too, more bite? Raise em up. Rounder tone ? Give it a little relief, more bite? Back to the pups. Never seen other basses react to a setup like a Spector. Lots available there, just gotta experiment a bit.

This! ^

It isn't. That's the beauty of good construction. About as tight as most 35" scale basses honestly. The NSCR, NSCRFM's, and early euro 5's were 34" scale. Great basses too.

+1!

You order from Jason at Basstringsonline.com and ask for a set of 4 strings with whatever gauges you want.

**oops just noticed that Donny mentioned it...

Reinforcement is a good thing.

The shop who opened the neck up quoted me at around $450-500 for the work.
Another shop in town told me $6-700.
There are no other luthiers in my area who are willing to take on such a task, but both of those prices are beyond what it's worth.

I have this issue with eBay where I can never see the used items. I only ever get the new store stuff, despite my search being just "Spector bass" and no filters.

Because there are no Spector dealers in my province, they're few & far between. Because of this, they also fetch ridiculous prices. People are asking over $1000 locally for ReBop 4's and $1800 for Euro 5's. The only Legend I saw used in the last 2 years was $600 for a 4. I've searched abroad, but people aren't willing to ship.

I'm willing to sell the ReBop as is, I think. It will just be a matter of getting a reasonable price. The 40J pickups alone set me back over $200. Given that a working ReBop 5DLX goes for around $6-800 on average (and stock), would I be wrong to expect $3-350 for the bass as is, with the 40J's?

Sidenote: It's been almost 4 months that my Spector's been out of commission.

Perhaps you can reach out to other bass players in your area that'd be willing to assist you? Just a thought.
I've shipped basses to Canada from the USA before and to tell ya the truth...it wasn't that difficult. As long as the buyer is willing to pay more for shipping and shipping was that much more either. I filled out a very short declaration form from USPS online...not difficult at all.

As for price for your ReBop 5 as is..if it was me, I'd put the HZ pups back on it and you'd probably get $200-250 for the ReBop as a project bass...sell the EMG 40Js separately. You're more than likely going to take a bit of a beating on the sale compared to what you bought it for, but you realize this. That's why I'm pro fixing the ReBop. You've got too much invested to lose that much.

This being 4 months so far can really weigh on you I know but...if your on a limited income, as I am with ya there, you have to be resourceful, use what's at your disposal i.e. Networking with other knowledgable bassist, YouTube etc...If I can help you in ANY way please, PM me. Sorry if I'm so passionate about this subject...just trying to help out a bass brother.

NBD! My first Spector bass as an endorsed artist. I like the factory setup but I didnt like the gauge so I changed the strings to something heavier for drop tuning . Whew im so excited to play this tonight. Just got this an hour ago. Waited since October of last year hehe

Love the holoflash Spectors! Beautiful bass and congratulations! Is this a Pro model MIK? What's your bands name and do you have any CDs for sale? Love to hear some of your music! Welcome to the Spector family!
I didn't realize that Spector Performers went to P/J's COOL!

Got the Darkglass Duality fuzz and have my mini-pedalbord complete now overdrive+synth+fuzz. Just don't need anything else.

Yeah sure...that's how it starts and then...next thing you know there's 20 boxes on the floor in front of you. That's cool brother! Have you seen lately how many boxes/pedals that Doug Wimbish is using?!?!

thank you sir! i'll be alternating this with my performer. that will be my beaters bass hehe. i want moar spector, maybe a coda before moving on to the euros and us btw, the new performers that arrived to my local distributor were made in korea and had PJ pup config. just wow

More Spectors is a GOOD thing! You'll be totally in awe when you play a USA Spector for the first time...and every time when you pick one up to play.

 

[GBassNorth]

NBD! My first Spector bass as an endorsed artist. I like the factory setup but I didnt like the gauge so I changed the strings to something heavier for drop tuning . Whew im so excited to play this tonight. Just got this an hour ago. Waited since October of last year hehe

Congrats on the NBD! Your gonna love how that thing sounds in the mix and catches the lights on stage. I've had my Rex 5 Pro for about 2 years now and can't put it down. Rock it hard!

 

[Wolf Tower 5]

The shop who opened the neck up quoted me at around $450-500 for the work.
Another shop in town told me $6-700.
There are no other luthiers in my area who are willing to take on such a task, but both of those prices are beyond what it's worth.



I have this issue with eBay where I can never see the used items. I only ever get the new store stuff, despite my search being just "Spector bass" and no filters.

Because there are no Spector dealers in my province, they're few & far between. Because of this, they also fetch ridiculous prices. People are asking over $1000 locally for ReBop 4's and $1800 for Euro 5's. The only Legend I saw used in the last 2 years was $600 for a 4. I've searched abroad, but people aren't willing to ship.

I'm willing to sell the ReBop as is, I think. It will just be a matter of getting a reasonable price. The 40J pickups alone set me back over $200. Given that a working ReBop 5DLX goes for around $6-800 on average (and stock), would I be wrong to expect $3-350 for the bass as is, with the 40J's?

Sidenote: It's been almost 4 months that my Spector's been out of commission.

It just totally sucks that you are in a location were you are so limited with options. This one is available in my area and a very reasonable price. Just under 400. And that comes with a case. Plus if your going to sell the ReBop as is, like I said before, I'd throw the HZs back in it an save the 40 Js for the CBX or a new to you Legend.

 

[Holdsg]

well, I ordered an extra brass nut today from PJ just to be on the safe side, may never use it, but at $25 it's is a good hedge, and its reversible if I just don't like BEAD on a 34.

 

[NOLA Bass]

well, I ordered an extra brass nut today from PJ just to be on the safe side, may never use it, but at $25 it's is a good hedge, and its reversible if I just don't like BEAD on a 34.

Good plan. I had to file mine a bit. The heavier gauge is tricky w the bridge. I could not get a Dunlop .115 in there but the Blue Steel fits. Going .125 or higher, you prob should get a tapered low string.

 

[anton72]

Yeah sure...that's how it starts and then...next thing you know there's 20 boxes on the floor in front of you. That's cool brother! Have you seen lately how many boxes/pedals that Doug Wimbish is using?!?!

Yeah I saw his range of tools I'm never going to do the same or even close, in fact I used more pedals before but narrowed my arsenal now to what I really use.

 

[iceboxbass]

well, I ordered an extra brass nut today from PJ just to be on the safe side, may never use it, but at $25 it's is a good hedge, and its reversible if I just don't like BEAD on a 34.

Great plan! I'd ordered one from PJ back when I had a ReBop 5 DLX, same price and there's nothing quite as nice like factory cut & polished brass string nut. Too bad they don't sell the brass string nut as after market for the Korean models. That's when I ordered a custom made string nut from AJ at dickheaddesigns.

 

[anton72]

I'll also point out how much tonally those lower tunings can change things. Quite honestly, I thought my NS4 really lost some of its magic tuned down to "C". The 35" scale ones just sound tighter and cut through at those detunings. I have no idea if your guitarist are tuned down but that definitely becomes a factor the lower they go. In fact, one of our guitarists just switched from his Jacksons to getting two Gibson SG's because they cut through at the low tunings better than the Jackson does. I have rethought amps, how I set them, what pedals I use, etc. It can definitely turn into "one thing leads to another"!!!! ; )

All these make me think about owing 435 again, we do not play at low tunings but my guitarist always tune E down to D. I have a D-tuner and can support him switching to D but I realized it keeps me a bit constraint because I got used to "normal" tuning ergonomics, i.e. intervals, octaves and all. I still regret I sold my 435 a year ago, this was one of the comfiest bass I've had in spite of 35" scale...

 

[awilkie84]

Perhaps you can reach out to other bass players in your area that'd be willing to assist you? Just a thought.
I've shipped basses to Canada from the USA before and to tell ya the truth...it wasn't that difficult. As long as the buyer is willing to pay more for shipping and shipping was that much more either. I filled out a very short declaration form from USPS online...not difficult at all.

As for price for your ReBop 5 as is..if it was me, I'd put the HZ pups back on it and you'd probably get $200-250 for the ReBop as a project bass...sell the EMG 40Js separately. You're more than likely going to take a bit of a beating on the sale compared to what you bought it for, but you realize this. That's why I'm pro fixing the ReBop. You've got too much invested to lose that much.

This being 4 months so far can really weigh on you I know but...if your on a limited income, as I am with ya there, you have to be resourceful, use what's at your disposal i.e. Networking with other knowledgable bassist, YouTube etc...If I can help you in ANY way please, PM me. Sorry if I'm so passionate about this subject...just trying to help out a bass brother.

I don't mind importing from the US. The shipping cost really isn't any higher, if you use USPS/Canada Post. It's the duty on non-NAFTA products that gets you. This varies by price but would add about $50-100 to the price.

Yeah. I'm really hoping that something can be done with the neck. If not, I should probably swap out the 40Js and take what I can get for the Rebop.

This is definitely an uphill battle & the encouragement to fix it is always welcome.

It just totally sucks that you are in a location were you are so limited with options. This one is available in my area and a very reasonable price. Just under 400. And that comes with a case. Plus if your going to sell the ReBop as is, like I said before, I'd throw the HZs back in it an save the 40 Js for the CBX or a new to you Legend.
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Oooh. That's pretty. Is that an older legend? I don't think I've seen a bolt-on without the extended joint that had a J/H p-up setup. I wonder what shipping would be on that? Of course, I'd have to unload the ReBop & possibly the CBX first.

 

[Torn Bassist]

I don't mind importing from the US. The shipping cost really isn't any higher, if you use USPS/Canada Post. It's the duty on non-NAFTA products that gets you. This varies by price but would add about $50-100 to the price.

Yeah. I'm really hoping that something can be done with the neck. If not, I should probably swap out the 40Js and take what I can get for the Rebop.

This is definitely an uphill battle & the encouragement to fix it is always welcome.



Oooh. That's pretty. Is that an older legend? I don't think I've seen a bolt-on without the extended joint that had a J/H p-up setup. I wonder what shipping would be on that? Of course, I'd have to unload the ReBop & possibly the CBX first.

Have you tried contacting Todd Cooke, he might have some ideas or suggestions on how to get this fixed...he might be able to help (918) 835-6959