I built a 5 string fretless of my own design for the WBO 2022. Now it's time to build a 4 string version of it. That original build thread can be found here if you're interested. Sidenote; I recently discovered a problem with that bass that will need to be fixed, so I'll make thread detailing that later this year.
OK, on to the details. The 5 string version featured neck through construction. I'm trying to conserve my (maple) resources for some upcoming builds; so I plan to make this one a "built up" set neck more like a Carl Thompson, Fodera or Ken Smith type of construction. The benefit is that it allows for heavier shaping and carving just like a neck through... but doesn't require 4 foot long lengths of stock. The downside is that I haven't tried this method yet, but it seems pretty straight forward. Plus, I get to call those extra little pieces of wood exotic names like "toneblock".
It is hilarious to me what some bass builders call a piece of wood that was dug out of the scrap box to be used as a filler.
So what woods am I using? I've been digging through my wood stash all day trying to make up my mind on this one. The end result is that I'm still not sure... I mean, I think I know, but I keep changing my mind. In fact, I ran across some material that I forgot that I had... now I have another build that I will be starting soon.
Here are the preliminary specifications:
Checking to be sure the ebony is big enough using the 5 string as I don't have any standalone body templates for this body style.
More soon.
OK, on to the details. The 5 string version featured neck through construction. I'm trying to conserve my (maple) resources for some upcoming builds; so I plan to make this one a "built up" set neck more like a Carl Thompson, Fodera or Ken Smith type of construction. The benefit is that it allows for heavier shaping and carving just like a neck through... but doesn't require 4 foot long lengths of stock. The downside is that I haven't tried this method yet, but it seems pretty straight forward. Plus, I get to call those extra little pieces of wood exotic names like "toneblock".
It is hilarious to me what some bass builders call a piece of wood that was dug out of the scrap box to be used as a filler. So what woods am I using? I've been digging through my wood stash all day trying to make up my mind on this one. The end result is that I'm still not sure... I mean, I think I know, but I keep changing my mind. In fact, I ran across some material that I forgot that I had... now I have another build that I will be starting soon.
Here are the preliminary specifications:
- 4 string fretless
- 34" scale, but maybe 32"
- Maple/wenge neck
- Body core will be black limba
- Body top... struggling with this, but I just found an ebony set that I forgot that I had. Could also be camphor burl
- Fingerboard. Again, I'm unsure. If I use the ebony top, I'll likely do an ebony board. Many options are available.
- Pickups, Nordstrand fat stacks
- Bridge: probably Hipshot B
- Tuners: Need to order
Checking to be sure the ebony is big enough using the 5 string as I don't have any standalone body templates for this body style.
More soon.
