SX Jazz-type 5 string fretless

[Mike0505]

Hey All

I have an SX jazz-type 5 string fretless that I bought quite a few years ago. I got it to experiment with fretless, but it just kinda sat.

I'm recently retired, and I want to dive in to the fretless world. The SX feels great. I like the weight and solidness. It just doesn't have that fretless "mwaaah" sound. It just kinda thumps. Aside from replacing the flat wounds that came on it, what can I do to liven up the sound? If I get any electronics upgrades, I'd like to stick to passive. Thank you!! Mike

 

[Bergerman]

Low action with minimal neck relief. Make sure the nut is cut low...it probably is higher than it needs to be. Rounds will help but are not necessary to get good mwah. Not sure what brand your flats are, but you might want up upgrade those also...the stock strings are not always top-notch on an instrument like an SX.

 

[Mike0505]

Low action with minimal neck relief. Make sure the nut is cut low...it probably is higher than it needs to be. Rounds will help but are not necessary to get good mwah. Not sure what brand your flats are, but you might want up upgrade those also...the stock strings are not always top-notch on an instrument like an SX.

Hey, thanks for the helpful response. As I've started doing some research, I've gotten much of that same information. I'm putting Ernie Ball Slinky steel flats on. Also, my buddy who's doing my work is working on the neck, just as you mentioned. In addition, Seymour Duncan pickups and Mojotone electronics are going in. Thanks again for your help! Mine

 

[Bergerman]

Enjoy! Fretless is a lot of fun...I've hardly touched my fretted basses in the last few years...it's addictive.

 

[Mike0505]

Thanks! I've been playing for almost 40 years. Many MANY club dates, upwards of 200/year some years as a part time player. Now I want to really dig in. Technique, reading, etc. Bought a few good books, as well as Jeff Berlin's course #1. Really looking forward to it! Thanks again.