Spector Club - Part 12

[PhatBasstard]

Funny! I talked to Doug about this after the show. Lauren Hill's band is connected to Ampeg and Doug was a visiting bassist.

He said he's still a hardcore Trace Elliot guy.

OK.
Everybody out of Trace's place. Take the leather tie downs with you.

 

[cjmodulus]

Yeah they actually ended their sponsorship of him for his drug-store cowboy stunt. And looks like he's going to prison for a long time.

Sad... but he did a lot to promote his SPECTOR Endorsement. But Stuart and PJ just don't like being affiliated with people who do violent drug-related felonious activities.

Not the way they want to be associated with musicians. LOL.

Yeah, it's really a shame. He's been a huge influence. I was really sad when I read the news, but maybe now he can get the help he needs.

 

[Christian Waiau]

Do it Chris sell and get another Spector. I sold my Axe and I even sold my Pedulla which i had for 23 years to get me another Spector. In my opinion there is no reason to ever own anything else...except that I do still own a custom bass that was made for me in 1989. The only reason why I am keeping it is because it cost my mom $2K in 1989 and now if I went to sell it; I probably couldnt get more then $400 if I was lucky. (and nobody wants a bass with my name engraved in the 12th fret inlay. lol)
dreaming.... If it only could be sold for what it was really worth...ah Spector #7 A Silverburst would be perfect right now.

I'm debating on selling the modulus to fund a NS2.. But I will not put it up for sale until I have the down payment for the NS2.

 

[Cinnamon Buns]

Hello people! I was hoping I could get a bit of advice from you fine folks. I'm currently looking at two really nice Spector basses, both used -- an 1989 NS-2A with upgrades (American EMG pickups and two-band preamp) and a four-string Rebop DLX-EX, completely stock. I'm having a hard time deciding on which to opt for and I'd like a bit of guidance if you'd please. Basically, I want a bass that has a very full bottom end -- something with very deep, warm lows, with a bit of mid range for added flavor. The NS-2A's maple body suits itself towards lots of punchy mids and highs, which isn't what I'm really after, but with the new electronics, who's to say. I very much like the tone of the Rebop, but I don't know if it's necessarily better than the NS-2A, and the difference in price (about $500~) is pretty steep.

I know it's not a lot to go on, but any advice would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks guy,

 

[JPSBassist]

I'm debating on selling the modulus to fund a NS2.. But I will not put it up for sale until I have the down payment for the NS2.

Yeah I hear you. BPL will be good this year. I'm pretty sure PJ is planning on only having USA models.

Dude I can't say enough about the NS-2. I absolutely love mine. Everything about it.

Talk to PJ about that NS-2. The only down side to the NS-2 is that if you're like me, you'd never want to gig with it. Which is a shame actually. They were made for the stage.

Of course Doug Wimbish's "Honey" which is what he called it, BTW... is covered in scratches, dings, chips... the headstock is chipped like crazy. He doesn't even put the truss cover on it anymore. But man can he make it sing.

So perhaps touring with one wouldn't be so bad... meaning you could live with the damage (superficial stuff like chips and small dents)...

 

[JPSBassist]

Hello people! I was hoping I could get a bit of advice from you fine folks. I'm currently looking at two really nice Spector basses, both used -- an 1989 NS-2A with upgrades (American EMG pickups and two-band preamp) and a four-string Rebop DLX-EX, completely stock. I'm having a hard time deciding on which to opt for and I'd like a bit of guidance if you'd please. Basically, I want a bass that has a very full bottom end -- something with very deep, warm lows, with a bit of mid range for added flavor. The NS-2A's maple body suits itself towards lots of punchy mids and highs, which isn't what I'm really after, but with the new electronics, who's to say. I very much like the tone of the Rebop, but I don't know if it's necessarily better than the NS-2A, and the difference in price (about $500~) is pretty steep.

I know it's not a lot to go on, but any advice would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks guy,

Hey Guy... I think the ReBop is a better choice for you. The NS-2A, while a great bass, and I own one, BTW... is not as nice a bass overall in my opinion as a newer ReBop4DLX. And drop in some EMG DC humbuckers in the ReBop and you've got a mean machine!

If the NS-2A is priced over $500 it's overpriced anyway. And a ReBop in the $800-$1000 range is about right... depending on condition.

I hope this helps!

 

[LimaGuy]

I have alot of input I can give you on the NS-2A vs ReBop. Currently on my mobile app. I will give you some good info in about 1-2 hours. When I get back to my pc.

 

[Cinnamon Buns]

Hey Guy... I think the ReBop is a better choice for you. The NS-2A, while a great bass, and I own one, BTW... is not as nice a bass overall in my opinion as a newer ReBop4DLX. And drop in some EMG DC humbuckers in the ReBop and you've got a mean machine!

If the NS-2A is priced over $500 it's overpriced anyway. And a ReBop in the $800-$1000 range is about right... depending on condition.

I hope this helps!

I'm not your guy, pal. Yes, typos...whoopsie. Anyways, yeah; that does make sense. I had the opportunity to play a Rebop not long ago and absolutely loved it, but the NS-2A is completely unknown to me, so that helps. Thanks for the input!

I have alot of input I can give you on the NS-2A vs ReBop. Currently on my mobile app. I will give you some good info in about 1-2 hours. When I get back to my pc.

Actually, if I'm not mistaken, one of the resources I found whilst researching was your Spector bass comparisons on SoundCloud. Those helped a lot in trying to discern the tonal qualities of those two instruments which helped a lot. But more input would be great, thank you.

 

[Mr.Bassie720]

100% agree.

P.S. post a full shot of your Bass... it is looking very "hot" Mr. Bassie.

A little off topic at this point and a few pages ago. But here she is. I wanted to mention to any one contemplating a refin on a neckthrough Spector; it is the perfect time to "shave" the neck down to the exact shape that you like. This one had a very round C shape that did not fully feel comfortable to my smallish hands. My man Chris Bavaria shaped it to more of a D type feel. I have never played an Ian Hill model or a Doug Wimbish, but I imagine they would feel very similar to this. A lot thinner front to back than before.

 

[peledog]

I'm debating on selling the modulus to fund a NS2.. But I will not put it up for sale until I have the down payment for the NS2.

Are you going to get the BEAD nut? I know in your video, the silverburst is strung that way. And if so, 35" scale?

I love my Zebop, but seriously, the 35" scale takes some getting used to. The last couple of gigs I found myself straining to play. So I sort of 'shifted' the bass more towards the right side of my body. Felt a bit weird, but it was easier to play. I have no idea how it looked though, LOL.

 

[Tracebassplayer]

Man...I have a Legend 4 & also an Ian Hill sig. And I can tell you for a fact the Ian Hill has the fastest playing neck and by far best player between the two! And hands down will sonically best the Legend! I use same strings on all my SPECTORS too, GHS! I bet Trace can back that up!

Definitely faster than my Legend...

 

[Tracebassplayer]

When did Doug become an Ampeg guy?
I thought he was hardcore Trace Elliot.


Nobody tell Trace before he gets back.
It'll break his heart (plus, he might kill something out in the woods ).

LOL.

too late...
and I took out a squad of enemy troops enroute to my target and 2 enemy leaders at 850 yards. Oohrah.
Environmentals were challenging on this course but very interesting to meet the challenge - adapt overcome and conquer.

Did someone mention leather straps? ???


This is a secured course btw...

 

[iceboxbass]

I'm debating on selling the modulus to fund a NS2.. But I will not put it up for sale until I have the down payment for the NS2.

Come on...let go! I sold my first bass, Fender Jazz Bass, to buy my first SPECTOR. But NEVER ask me to sell my first SPECTOR!

A little off topic at this point and a few pages ago. But here she is. I wanted to mention to any one contemplating a refin on a neckthrough Spector; it is the perfect time to "shave" the neck down to the exact shape that you like. This one had a very round C shape that did not fully feel comfortable to my smallish hands. My man Chris Bavaria shaped it to more of a D type feel. I have never played an Ian Hill model or a Doug Wimbish, but I imagine they would feel very similar to this. A lot thinner front to back than before.

Can you show us a neck shot, back and side?

 

[iceboxbass]

LOL.

too late...
and I took out a squad of enemy troops enroute to my target and 2 enemy leaders at 850 yards. Oohrah.
Environmentals were challenging on this course but very interesting to meet the challenge - adapt overcome and conquer.

Did someone mention leather straps? ???

This is a secured course btw...

Trace lives!!! The bears didn't get ya huh? ;D

 

[LimaGuy]

Hello people! I was hoping I could get a bit of advice from you fine folks. I'm currently looking at two really nice Spector basses, both used -- an 1989 NS-2A with upgrades (American EMG pickups and two-band preamp) and a four-string Rebop DLX-EX, completely stock. I'm having a hard time deciding on which to opt for and I'd like a bit of guidance if you'd please. Basically, I want a bass that has a very full bottom end -- something with very deep, warm lows, with a bit of mid range for added flavor. The NS-2A's maple body suits itself towards lots of punchy mids and highs, which isn't what I'm really after, but with the new electronics, who's to say. I very much like the tone of the Rebop, but I don't know if it's necessarily better than the NS-2A, and the difference in price (about $500~) is pretty steep.

I know it's not a lot to go on, but any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Actually, if I'm not mistaken, one of the resources I found whilst researching was your Spector bass comparisons on SoundCloud. Those helped a lot in trying to discern the tonal qualities of those two instruments which helped a lot. But more input would be great, thank you.

I am glad you did find the links to my SoundCloud.
Not sure when you looked if you saw the recent ones I listed. Incase you didnt hear them, the links are below.

Spector compare by Limaguy on SoundCloud - Create, record and share your sounds for free
Spector NS2A by Limaguy on SoundCloud - Create, record and share your sounds for free
Spector ReBop by Limaguy on SoundCloud - Create, record and share your sounds for free
WalkingBass by Limaguy on SoundCloud - Create, record and share your sounds for free

Now here is my input.

Keep in mind if you get a NS-2A it may have a little issue or a big issue since something that age is never going to be in "perfect" shape. example: I got a NS-2A in May and it had a nut issue, not a big deal I replaced it. The NS-2A i recently got had a input jack issue and the battery terminal broke off as soon as I went to change the battery. Also not a big deal I replaced both. But be careful it could be something worse like a neck issue.

With that being said, I think a NS-2A is one of the best deals for a Spector. As JPS said a NS-2A over $500 is overpriced.
One of mine was $500 and the other was $380. As you proabably have seen the there are some NS-2A's way overpriced on ebay, craigslist etc....

Before I got my ReBop I saw everyone talking about never getting the right tone and then everyone talking about upgrading from the HZ-EMGs active EMGs. (Now that I own it, I understand why.)
In the recordings I did get a decent sound out of it. But when I play through my amp I either get too muddy of a sound or I get way too much crisp high-end. It seems to be lacking in the mid range area. But you mentioned this is kinda what you are looking for so it may be good for you.

I got my ReBop for $675 on a local craigslist sale. It is a 2004DLX in Mint condition. You cant find a scratch on it. The previous owner just played at church gigs every week.

Just curious, where are you located?
and what type of music do you usually play?

If you want I can do a another recording for you, if you want to hear any other style of playing being compared between the NS-2A and ReBop.

The ReBop neck is bit wider and thicker then the NS-2A's necks.
And I am sure you can see in the photos how the ReBop neck gets wider as it gets towards the bottom of the neck.

Not sure if you are into Slap style, "I am just getting into it and getting my chops up" But the NS-2A's IMHO are not great for slapping. I get much better feel and tone from the ReBop and Euros for slap style.

Now after all this info, not thinking money, if someone said to me, would you like a 2nd ReBop or 3rd NS-2A. I would take a 3rd NS-2A.

Hope this helped some and didnt confuse you further.

Feel free to send me a PM to discuss further.

Also, not sure if this is still avail but here is a ReBop at a great price. Invalid Link Removed

 

[iceboxbass]

I filmed the Lauren Hill/Doug Wimbish concert today.

Here are some photos... I'm working on editing the video footage. Doug shared the awesome story of how the neck on his "signature" NS-2 came to be.

Hey! I just thought of something! OK. Next post... I want to ask all of you about your opinion on something that Doug's iconic signature bass... the original... got me thinking about.

But until then... he played with his rarely seen beautiful deep blue USA NS-6XL. He doesn't get to play it much with Living Colour or Tackhead. So he was stoked to have it "fit" the tonal range of this show.

Doug is an awesome guy. A really cool and insanely talented dude. For sure.

Awesome photo shoot JPS! That deep blue USA NS-6XL is one purty SPECTOR! That's really extraordinary to know Doug doesn't mind that his SPECTOR basses look road worn, !

OK you SPECTOR-ITES... which 5 basses played by a famous musician would stand out as the most "iconic" SPECTORs in history?

For me it'd be this:

1) Sting's white 1983 NS-2
2) Doug Wimbish's 1987 Kramer NS-2
3) Ian Hill's 1985 Kramer NS-2
4) Nikki Six's SPECTOR-Birds
5) Gene Simmon's SB-1 (the one sold for $30,000)

1) Ian Hills 1985 Kramer NS-2
2) Doug Wimbishs 1987 Kramer NS-2
3) Stings white 1983 NS-2
4) Gene Simmons SB-1
5) Nikki Six SPECTOR-Birds

Even though Doug's responsible for introducing and me deciding to buy my first SPECTOR...

When did Doug become an Ampeg guy?
I thought he was hardcore Trace Elliot.

Nobody tell Trace before he gets back.
It'll break his heart (plus, he might kill something out in the woods ).

Ah! Alright Doug! Playing the BEST & BEST! The man has excellent tastes!! lol ;D

 

[JPSBassist]

I'm not your guy, pal. Yes, typos...whoopsie.

Hey your post ended in "Thanks, guy"

I figured that was your name. Sorry!

So you won't be my "guy"... would you be my "huckleberry?" (Tombstone Val Kilmer reference). Hope you see the humor.

It's all good. Perhaps it's OK if I just call you "Buns"?

 

[stjohn1299]

I have a late Kramer forum, probably 87 or 88. It has spector pickups and bridge. I'm wondering If it has a true hazlab in it or a copy? It might be interesting to try in my euro...

 

[Christian Waiau]

Are you going to get the BEAD nut? I know in your video, the silverburst is strung that way. And if so, 35" scale?

I love my Zebop, but seriously, the 35" scale takes some getting used to. The last couple of gigs I found myself straining to play. So I sort of 'shifted' the bass more towards the right side of my body. Felt a bit weird, but it was easier to play. I have no idea how it looked though, LOL.

I'm really not sure at the moment.

I've been playing 35" 5s and 4s for the last 5 years.. Which is almost half of the total time I've been playing bass. The difference never even came to my head until a clinic last year with David Ellefson talking about how his Jackson 5 is a 34". I still don't notice it. I also can't tell if a 34" is " easier" ....to each his own I guess lol

 

[jarrod cunningham]

I have a late Kramer forum, probably 87 or 88. It has spector pickups and bridge. I'm wondering If it has a true hazlab in it or a copy? It might be interesting to try in my euro...

Nah man that thing is crap ! Just ship it to me and I'll get "rid" of it for you !!! lol lol

I would love to have another . I had a neck through black with binding and diamond inlays on the neck . Very nice bass