Would adding a string tree to a collectible bass alter its value?

Can't you simply restring the bass and this time leave more length so the winding around the A tuner post go all the way down?

 

I didn't vote because I am all for making minor changes if it will improve the playability of your bass, but in this case I think mikeswals has a valid point about stringing the A string up differently so you do not have to.

Is the string actually rattling?

 

Is the nut not cut deep enough? What about attaching a solid capo behind the nut. Should solve the problem - but won't be pretty.

 

What kind of tuners does it have? If they're similar to the American series models, you could fit an A string stealth retainer. Wouldn't work on Mexican-style tuners though, unfortunately.

 

If it's not Pre-CBS or something else very rare, I would do whatever I wanted to/needed to to make my instrument more playable.

First, find out how much the bass is actually worth, then, find out how much, if at all your modification might reduce its value.

I have a 40 year old Ibanez Musician.

I don't use the stock preamp anymore, and I might change the pickups if I think it will make the bass sound better to me.

I, personally don't care about resale value, as I am keeping this bass.

Mike

 

This is the best answer. Fender provided and completely reversible. The other best answer is regarding how the strings are wound on the post.

 

I wouldn't worry about that bass being collectible.

 

I don't see how this is collectible. Limited production and rarity only translates to collectibility if the market wants them more than they're available.

This is a limited run they made last year, right? Do it's too recent to have acquired any collector value.

 

Never heard of these. Where might one buy these?

 

Fender uses them on 5 string basses now. You'll probably find them at every Fender seller on ebay

 

Thanks.

 

yes it would degrade the value of the bass, it will not longer be all original

 

Is it a issue with the nut? Contrary to some, they do get replaced. Could have been made wrong.

 

Without arguing whether or not this specific bass is collectible, the answer to your question is yes, making changes to a collectible bass would LOWER the value of the bass.

 

Fixing a problem that doesn't exist. Cheapest and best tact ; do not look at it - play it.

 

You said you are worried about sustain, but if you're not actually hearing a problem, there is none.