Stack knob or 3 knob VVT?

[Btone]

I'm considering changing from 3 knob VVT to stack knob config on my 2010 jazz. I think it looks way cooler, and gives me more control (had a '62 AVRI and really liked the stack knob config). What config do you prefer?

 

[mikeswals]

I have one of each, but I prefer stack knobs. I like how I can better dial-in the top-end snap with it; the bridge pickup gets lots of treble and I dial it back just a tad more than the neck pickup.

 

[5string5fingers]

stacked for sure. I've been on a kick. Really been wanting to grab one of the new VM j basses, and do a stack knob config.

 

[MVE]

Stack KNOB!!! hands down winner.
The three knob was nothing but a way to save production cost.
There is no comparison...

I use and would recommend the rawsound dual varitone '60s stackknob.
It is kinda heavy but lots of fun.

 

[TN WOODMAN]

On a three knob set up, I also like a master volume, pan/balance, and master tone.

 

[SanDiegoHarry]

Stack knob looks all vintagish & whatnot, but the practical use of having a tone for each p'up just isn't there. VVT worked for me just fine when I was using a J.

 

[JTE]

Stack KNOB!!! hands down winner.
The three knob was nothing but a way to save production cost.
There is no comparison...

I use and would recommend the rawsound dual varitone '60s stackknob.
It is kinda heavy but lots of fun.

I don't think the 3-knob was "... nothing but a way save production cost" as much as a way to make it easier for the players. On the stack knob, the tone controls interact unless you have the bridging resistors originally used (and left out of the Vintage Series reissues) which reduce the output and color the tone anyway. If you turn down the tone control for the bridge PUP while both PUPs' volume controls are open, you're bleeding treble off the neck PUP also. No way around how the electrons flow no matter what people say.

Best for me is master volume, blend, tone.

John

 

[MVE]

John, I never thought about it that way.
However, wouldn't the individual volumes serve the same purpose as the bridging resistors when partially backed off?

 

[Hugh Jass]

I've got a 62' reissue and the tone knobs do indeed interact.

Sure prefer the looks of them though....

 

[pacojas]

stacked looks way cooler, IMHO! but, the best thing about my '62RI is the vintage frets. makes for a very fast neck.

 

[rayzak]

I agree stack knobs look pretty cool, but as far as ease of use, it's really all just personal preference. So I voted "love both equally". Unless you REALLY love the looks, I don't know that it is really worth the effort. But, that's all preference too. And I agree with pacojas. I love vintage frets too.

 

[tonyciv]

What about the 70's strat skirt knobs? Can someone post some pics of this somewhat rare option.

 

[dtsamples]

Best for me is master volume, blend, tone.

John

I was told a blend didn't work well on a passive bass. I had a reputable tech put a concentric pot in mine and he said when both pickups were engaged there was a cut in volume. He put a three way mini toggle in instead. I'd really rather have the blend.

 

[pasta4lnch]

2 knobs no tone

 

[meatwad]

I was told a blend didn't work well on a passive bass. I had a reputable tech put a concentric pot in mine and he said when both pickups were engaged there was a cut in volume. He put a three way mini toggle in instead. I'd really rather have the blend.

My experience confirms this, and it's a shame.

 

[SlingBass4]

I don't think the 3-knob was "... nothing but a way save production cost" as much as a way to make it easier for the players. On the stack knob, the tone controls interact unless you have the bridging resistors originally used (and left out of the Vintage Series reissues) which reduce the output and color the tone anyway. If you turn down the tone control for the bridge PUP while both PUPs' volume controls are open, you're bleeding treble off the neck PUP also. No way around how the electrons flow no matter what people say.

Best for me is master volume, blend, tone.

John

+1

 

[cassanova]

I personally like the look of the 4 controls on the Jazz Deluxe and Deluxe Actives myself.

 

[line6man]

One tone control only!

With two tones, with both volumes up, the tone controls both act as masters, unless you isolate them with resistors, at the cost of some output.
I don't see the appeal in that. Then again, it appears that you are going on aesthetics alone.
If that's the case, go with stacked knobs, but wire it VVT and leave one pot disconnected.

 

[ishouldbeking]

I always thought the stack knob looked cooler, but I prefer the simplicity of the single tone knob. With two of em I find I tweak endlessly and continually second guess myself, but that's just me.

 

[bassdude51]

I have one of each, but I prefer stack knobs. I like how I can better dial-in the top-end snap with it; the bridge pickup gets lots of treble and I dial it back just a tad more than the neck pickup.

"What he said!"