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Warwick Thumb Upper Horn Extender Experiments

Discussion in 'Accessories [BG]' started by Slapped, Jul 2, 2020.

  1. Jul 2, 2020 #1
    Slapped

    Slapped Supporting Member

    Jan 23, 2006
    Queens, New York
    Hi all - recently picked up a ‘97 Thumb 5 BO. Loving everything about the bass - except for the ergonomics on a strap. Neckdivey and a long reach to first position, classic Thumb issues. I found an old thread on the Warwick forums about a fellow TB member (Sietze I believe), who machined a double aluminum tube to fit snugly into the recessed straplock hole. This brings the balance point to roughly the 12th fret, allowing for much more conventional strap positions and less of a stretch to 1st position.

    I’m trying to recreate this with hardware I could easily find - using a 3” long 1/4” black steel pipe nipple, Dunlop recessed strap-lock, 4” long screw, and spray foam to provide interior screw stability.

    Will be updating this thread with progress pictures - here is the modification as it stands now:

    09F6E25B-F69E-4382-9808-B76563FB3093.jpeg

    Has anyone else ever attempted to remedy the neckdive on a Thumb (aside from the normal high & wide strap, lightweight tuners, etc.)?
     
    GTHintz and ricardol like this.
  2. Aug 7, 2021 #2
    oldschoolkyle

    oldschoolkyle

    May 2, 2012
    St. Petersburg, FL
    Endorsing Artist: Warwick Basses, Mesa Boogie Amps & Cabinets, EMG Pickups
    I need one for my buzzard
     
  3. Aug 13, 2021 #3
    J Posega

    J Posega Cat Dad and Dingwall Enthusiast Supporting Member

    Jul 16, 2005
    Portland, OR
    The name Thumb refers to the tendinitis you're going to get in your fretting hand from having to support the neck when playing on a strap. Warwicks are beautiful and sound great, but they've never given half of a f*** about ergonomics.
     
  4. Aug 23, 2021 #4
    GTHintz

    GTHintz

    Jan 9, 2018
    Parts Unknown, California
    What's funny is that by extending the horn like that you're almost getting a Corvette bass. I bet that's originally why they developed the Corvette body because of how the thumb body seems to not be the most balanced. Some guys really do great with it though. And you can't deny that tone though! :thumbsup:
     
  5. Nov 2, 2021 #5
    Flabzilla

    Flabzilla

    Jan 13, 2016
    Adelaide, South Australia
    Any progress on the mod so far?