To custom build or not to custom build - $2500 or less

Have you considered Valenti?

I've never played a Pushic but based on what I've read on TB it sounds liked a risky proposition. Haven't tried Stambaugh either but I've heard only good things about his work.

 

From what I've seen...Valenti will do everything you've asked....

 

I've played some Valenti's at Bass Specialties in Bensalem, PA. They're very nice basses. So I would recommend them from my limited experience.

... or try and find a used Pedulla that fits your specs. I just got a really nice one for $2,000 with case.

 

I have a bass being made by AC Guitars here in the UK and I understand that since the change in the £/$ exchange rate there are orders coming in from the USA.

Definately worth a look www.acguitars.co.uk

 

you can get all the recommendations from all the random interneters you want but unless you hold an example of a luthiers work you'll never know if it's worth it.

 

I say check out the Luthier's Corner. Look at some of the builds in there. There are a lot of talented people there, they may not be well known but that doesn't mean they aren't talented. I'm sure you could find somebody in there to build you what you want in that price range or less. You're not allowed to make a public thread and ask for a luthier I don't think. So PM some of the luthiers who catch your interest.

 

Do you really know what you want? I don't think there's a single detail on a bass that makes a bigger difference than neck joint...

 

Chris Stambaugh built me exactly what I asked for in every conceivable and practical way, and for a very fair price....well within your budget.

After, I had him build me a neck that is on my main axe at the moment that plays like butter, and I am having him build me yet another neck as well (I've got a surplus of bodies).

I've got nothing but good things to say about Chris

 

I'll vouch for Chris Stambaugh's work, since I own one his basses. I know he'll do basically anything you ask, too, so shouldn't be any worries. I got a 6 string from him with some bells and whistles, and it was around the $2500 mark, so I don't think your bass should surpass that.

 

Literally everything on this list can be done by Warmoth. Total parts cost shouldn't run much more than a thousand bucks. Pay a local luthier a few hours of labor to put it all together and set it up for you. Shouldn't cost more than $500 in labor.

That's the way I'd go if I were in your situation.

 

Just did a quick search on the Warmoth site. Yes, I'm bored

Rear-routed alder P-Bass body $190
Flame maple top $75
Trans blue finish $185

Birdseye maple neck w/ ebony board $219
Flame maple peghead veneer $45
Abalone block inlays [special order ... let's say $100]

Gold Schaller tuners $70
Gold Schaller bridge $70
Fralin P-J pickup set $200
Wiring, pots, knobs, etc. $50
Misc hardware $50

Total price for all parts: $1254

 

With the exception of the gold hardware, you could get a Lakland Bob Glaub PJ with all the stuff you want.

You may also want to take a look at STR

 

Custom all the way. You might try CallowHill, this is a five string but I never get tired of seeing it!

 

Ok......here's a four banger.

 

Another builder to look at is Mark Garza of Garz Guitars - www.garzguitars.com

 

Exactly what I was thinking. I would also have Warmoth cut the nut, I think that's an extra $25. I'd put it together myself and save the labour.