I made it. That's actually pickguard #2. The first attempt didn't have the chamfered edge. Here's what I did to convert the CV Jag from a PJ to a J: https://www.talkbass.com/threads/conversion-project-sanity-check.1631639/.
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I made it. That's actually pickguard #2. The first attempt didn't have the chamfered edge. Here's what I did to convert the CV Jag from a PJ to a J: https://www.talkbass.com/threads/conversion-project-sanity-check.1631639/.
I posted this feeler thread in the main forum, but I thought I'd link it here for posterity:
Interest in a 32" Scale Jazz 5? (Feeler Thread)
I have reached the conclusion that there is not enough interest for me to build a few on spec. I'll focus my attention on other offerings where the demand is more certain.
Interest in a 32" Scale Jazz 5? (Feeler Thread)
I have reached the conclusion that there is not enough interest for me to build a few on spec. I'll focus my attention on other offerings where the demand is more certain.
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Those are Hipshot Ultralites. Stock were ginormous Fender machines.
I'll keep that in mind for future reference but I'm not buying another set for this project.Res-o-lites are a bit lighter, if my digital scale does not lie.
I would personally perceive shortening the scale of a 5-string bass that was not designed from the start as a medium-scale as much riskier. However excellent the replacement neck is.
I posted this feeler thread in the main forum, but I thought I'd link it here for posterity:
Interest in a 32" Scale Jazz 5? (Feeler Thread)
I have reached the conclusion that there is not enough interest for me to build a few on spec. I'll focus my attention on other offerings where the demand is more certain.
Oh, there's no question that the conversion neck concept was a risky proposition. However, both the physics of the built instrument(s) and the ergonomics of player experience(s) in four-strings have proven it to be quite a lovely success.
Based on initial feedback, I have no doubt the experience in the five-string format will continue to be similar (if not even better). The biggest challenge to success will be the lack of economical donor instruments to use as a modding platform.
New middle aged bass day.
Almost like fresh from the oven, a medium scale J-bass - a younger sibling for my Greco medium scale P-bass. Both made in February 1982.
The J-bass is in really astonishing condition considering that it's over 40 years old. I've been searching for exactly this model from Greco for more than two years. Now I've found it and the only question is: what next?
Almost like fresh from the oven, a medium scale J-bass - a younger sibling for my Greco medium scale P-bass. Both made in February 1982.
The J-bass is in really astonishing condition considering that it's over 40 years old. I've been searching for exactly this model from Greco for more than two years. Now I've found it and the only question is: what next?
not unless it was a one off custom? The super j and super p are medium on the G string technically I guess since they're multi scale starting at 35" and going down to 32"
Thanks for your thoughts. I guess I'll never own a Dingwall tho I love them. I'm gonna be sticking to 32" scale and multi scale. I bought a nice Ibanez headless multi scale. 32" to 30" 5 string. Luv it
What model Ibanez did you buy? I've been interested in a 5 string but haven't seen much in 32" scale.
I'm planning on acquiring a new bass later this month and would like a medium or short scale 5 string and would like to stay under $1800. I'd like really low action on my basses and would like something that is bright for modern worship music. I'm currently using a Fender MB-5 with 16mm spacing, so tight spacing won't be an issue, but I also don't have an issue going wider. Light weight is also important; under 8.5 lbs.
I'm looking at the following:
* MTD Kingston LK5
* Ibanez EHB1005sms
* Spector Bantom 5
* Woodcraft AmpMaster 5
I have not found any examples of these anywhere near me to try out in person. Closest I got was an EHB1505MS at Guitar Center (which had terrible action and fret spout -- on an $1800 bass!!)
For those of you have have these basses, how do they fit what I'm looking for?
I'm looking at the following:
* MTD Kingston LK5
* Ibanez EHB1005sms
* Spector Bantom 5
* Woodcraft AmpMaster 5
I have not found any examples of these anywhere near me to try out in person. Closest I got was an EHB1505MS at Guitar Center (which had terrible action and fret spout -- on an $1800 bass!!)
For those of you have have these basses, how do they fit what I'm looking for?
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The Spectors go for $2,500 at Sweetwater. You'd have to find a used one if you want to stay under $1,800. I don't have any experience with these but the Spector looks pretty nice. I've never played a Spector so I don't know how the neck feels but they look thicker than most.
Regarding the Kingston, one of the forum members posted a review about it. I don't recall who did but you should be able to search it.
Regarding the Kingston, one of the forum members posted a review about it. I don't recall who did but you should be able to search it.
I have the Spector Bantam 5. Yes, the neck is a bit thicker. It can do the Spector sound but can also be a lot smoother. Ian Allison's review is pretty fair.
I would say though that the quality is not brilliant. The knobs are the cheapest I've ever seen and the control cavity cover isn't flush. Not deal breakers but unexpected on a bass this price.
Saw the short scale Telenbacker on the Retrovibe site and then came across this version in 32" scale!
Retrovibe R32 "Telenbacker" Bass 32″ medium scale – Black Body Double Binding – Maple Neck
Retrovibe R32 "Telenbacker" Bass 32″ medium scale – Black Body Double Binding – Maple Neck – Retrovibe
Retrovibe R32 "Telenbacker" Bass 32″ medium scale – Black Body Double Binding – Maple Neck
Retrovibe R32 "Telenbacker" Bass 32″ medium scale – Black Body Double Binding – Maple Neck – Retrovibe
I appreciate that review. I was hoping this could be a good versatile option for my travels. Still would love to try one though!
The control cavity not being recessed was all Spectors until recently wasn't it? Not just the Bantam.
Knobs I can see, although I actually like rubber knobs for tactile grip. Easy to replace.
I have no quality issues on my Bantam and it remains my number one. I am in love with the neck profile, I like a chunky neck with narrow string spacing. Fret work is excellent. Neck can go super flat for low action.
Next week will be replacing the preamp with an LHZ and report back.
