DZ said:
I am interested in maybe ordering a bass from Chris to compliment my S*****. I am wondering if exotic tops are part of the standard features and what his turnaround time is.
also, does anyone know id he does a step neck or does he cut the angle into the neck itself.
There was no additional charge for my Walnut top, however, there was an additional charge for making it match to the center thus covering the through-neck laminates. I'm sure at some point he has to charge for rare or exotic pieces but you will have many standard options.
I'm not sure what a step neck is but I'll describe my neck.
The fingerboard is angled back from the body a couple of degrees thus contributing to very low action. I have almost no relief in my neck yet, unplugged, the thing only buzzes under a heavy attack. The fret work is absolutely gorgeous. the fret ends are beautifully polished and the frets are perfectly leveled. The unbleached cow bone nut was perfectly slotted as well. The angled headstock is not "jointed" onto the neck. It is a continuation of the neck wood. He also carves a comfortable and functional volute behind the nut. There is
no tension on my two way truss rod. the neck
has not moved at all. I'm sure this is attributed to the Maple/Wenge/Bubinga neck with two graphite reinforcement rods. Also, I'm using .45-.95 guage strings. (there was a nominal up-charge for birdseye maple).
Finally, I should just say that this guy has serious woodworking skills. I have a good eye for the little things that others might not notice. (I spent many years as a furniture repairman and detailer). He left no sanding marks. His file never hit the fingerboard while beveling/finishing the frets. His inlay work (on the headstock and the 12th fret) is impeccible. The neck, under zero tension from the truss rod, is perfectly flat and straight. Truely a sign of a well built neck.
I say, buy one before he changes his prices!
Have fun,
Chad
