tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10002411957534538802024-02-24T23:46:47.009-08:00Bass Guitar AdventuresMonahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-53773247063890335912024-02-12T18:15:00.000-08:002024-02-12T18:15:24.519-08:002024 "Times Makin' Changes In My Life..."<p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh7vtL0u9ZezVZCIm6bk_PNq44xCt_J6Oj7uTfVzYf1nM3KUz3dDv8YT3aSG67LUs-Z5vuNstwGlDVdCVpJfRK6WEZV7qlkwx4Jkbb3vv-iRa6PVJ_DRF87C2DtjOsveLKvrZ3zEVtFJs_qAHgXxhDhtXFH1Md6KUNI4WBsOw0o0rZJP8zv5KQX01DEAXaX" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh7vtL0u9ZezVZCIm6bk_PNq44xCt_J6Oj7uTfVzYf1nM3KUz3dDv8YT3aSG67LUs-Z5vuNstwGlDVdCVpJfRK6WEZV7qlkwx4Jkbb3vv-iRa6PVJ_DRF87C2DtjOsveLKvrZ3zEVtFJs_qAHgXxhDhtXFH1Md6KUNI4WBsOw0o0rZJP8zv5KQX01DEAXaX" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://youtu.be/uVjeCZ2IvAA?feature=shared" target="_blank">Tesla Changes</a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #800180; font-family: verdana;"><i> "...Time's rearranging, changing you and me~"</i></span></p><p><i><span style="font-family: helvetica;">~Frank Hannon, Jeff Keith, Tom Skeoch, Troy Luccketta, Brian Wheat... i.e. Tesla!!</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">That song rings as true today as it did in 1986. So what's that got to do with this blog?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Well dear friends, I've been keeping this blog for 10 years this June! And boy how things have changed since that summer day nearly a decade ago.</span></p><p><b style="font-family: verdana;">Current Bass status</b></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdiUEs87DSGe3i3CZ7JIRSZJoqkTz46ZtG9DZEDrxGwUKYNbGwRNWMPa-MH34GSLWZ0IKs1kJEJuZIwfhhQFvQ7rywGlZxfdix02k8le5nGjyaG3CqAPNRqECA6HyhZszANs5bYowHK5q_UGJHtjNAp4dwlT8dBYQ3k-sfN9s7q_i6ee89ifrekYrxhJ4/s3067/last%20of%20the%20team.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2858" data-original-width="3067" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdiUEs87DSGe3i3CZ7JIRSZJoqkTz46ZtG9DZEDrxGwUKYNbGwRNWMPa-MH34GSLWZ0IKs1kJEJuZIwfhhQFvQ7rywGlZxfdix02k8le5nGjyaG3CqAPNRqECA6HyhZszANs5bYowHK5q_UGJHtjNAp4dwlT8dBYQ3k-sfN9s7q_i6ee89ifrekYrxhJ4/s320/last%20of%20the%20team.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Due to a significant change in my musical status, I have downsized the bass collection to the essentials:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">2018 Stingray Special</span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">2020 Fender American Pro II Precision</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Frankly, I could go down to just the Stingray and be completely satisfied. However, keeping the Fender affords the luxury of having a back up instrument which of course is a responsible thing to do for any musician. </span></p><p><b style="font-family: verdana;">Reason for the purge</b></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Two situations converged early last year: </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxEIIMA00dQJvOlLfThQGasfh9ZBW-ObczUvfjYge3eStKES8wLtzDy9mrEUP-1bIZGWdviahSyp-N4v9VXwA49K9_MaQTNS9dBvmE7yhlfYxDtwejvxqEouPPY7d-lgVggVcwjUO8yEM9GbOQxela0BWmZyLeDSibakE2m1NtQxFqRFq4hYuftYSUIaL/s4032/ThreeAmigos.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxEIIMA00dQJvOlLfThQGasfh9ZBW-ObczUvfjYge3eStKES8wLtzDy9mrEUP-1bIZGWdviahSyp-N4v9VXwA49K9_MaQTNS9dBvmE7yhlfYxDtwejvxqEouPPY7d-lgVggVcwjUO8yEM9GbOQxela0BWmZyLeDSibakE2m1NtQxFqRFq4hYuftYSUIaL/s320/ThreeAmigos.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">First my wife & I moved to a church closer to home. The new church is lead by an old friend with whom I served on a worship team he lead. Back then I was playing 6-string guitars as my primary instrument, so he asked if I'd play both bass and guitar at the new church. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Second, all my old guitar gear was sold off to fund my bass guitar adventures... So, being on a tight budget these days, it was time to let go of any bass stuff that wasn't being used. Doing so freed up enough money to fund some new guitar stuff, but with a different perspective. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Unlike years ago, I decided to get simply two guitars inspired by the Mike Campbell theory that he can get everything done on just one Gibson, and one Fender style guitar. My choice was a PRS David Grissom model, and a PRS CE24 bolt-on neck; both filling the Mike Campbell requirements perfectly.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Most of 2023 was spent brushing up my guitar chops, securing the necessary gear and selling that which wasn't. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3XJHLRqpflzhbHBSH9imfqfxBNcCdlr9urwuyCp0Dbr1oUSqooISlwHZ_HXY2Q8lZtNeDYTzseyP-IjNigLAvYzHnNVvxz5L0Jy0Zt2WEQSpAjKgADJVzkpFN8M_kSCviG7PiMEoY94xr0OGA7f70jebjSjz6LzT7htpXT-NGuyt4qPnr5P9cWK0rPdF/s3287/YoNeMem.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3287" data-original-width="2553" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3XJHLRqpflzhbHBSH9imfqfxBNcCdlr9urwuyCp0Dbr1oUSqooISlwHZ_HXY2Q8lZtNeDYTzseyP-IjNigLAvYzHnNVvxz5L0Jy0Zt2WEQSpAjKgADJVzkpFN8M_kSCviG7PiMEoY94xr0OGA7f70jebjSjz6LzT7htpXT-NGuyt4qPnr5P9cWK0rPdF/s320/YoNeMem.jpeg" width="249" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The other half of 2023 was spent trying to recover from a lower back issue that I've dealt with for 20-years. A LOT of physical therapy has helped me avoid surgery, so to all my readers out there-- take care of your back! We all age, and our bodies are temporary, so be smart and look after yourselves. Lift with your legs, not your back LOL!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My wife & I have also spent the last year working with our newly adopted rescue dog. A three-year old husky/Shepard/boxer mix with A LOT of energy had six homes before we found her. She had a difficult time finding a family who had the patience and knowhow to take care of her, but now she's home.</span></p><p><b style="font-family: verdana;">What's Next?</b></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">With our band I'll be playing guitar on the weeks I'm not playing bass, which means swapping instruments each week. Adding guitar to my bass playing has been a great way to stretch my ability, and a deeper understanding of music in general. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRfhpseedXCIrGj8c0iDldxVm9nWXTO1rf4U_cJrQ47kzX8Gi-92gIbjoxUU4O5nYGC2PRoDDGVS6tFdKGC-R7X-ZQWF37hde_LB8uphAiaga_MheH6AjFvMDfsESUkb5jw4JcWvw_XRwjJTyLjmkh_woSKPowS1pWtaXImx9zhqxQz08KG3CwRvWiExV/s3899/workspace.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2659" data-original-width="3899" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRfhpseedXCIrGj8c0iDldxVm9nWXTO1rf4U_cJrQ47kzX8Gi-92gIbjoxUU4O5nYGC2PRoDDGVS6tFdKGC-R7X-ZQWF37hde_LB8uphAiaga_MheH6AjFvMDfsESUkb5jw4JcWvw_XRwjJTyLjmkh_woSKPowS1pWtaXImx9zhqxQz08KG3CwRvWiExV/s320/workspace.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Adding guitar to my arsenal has also reinvigorated my excitement for music, making it more fun and helping me out of the rut I didn't realize I had dug so deep. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Another fun aspect this year will be adventures with digital modeling and recording... both things I've been avoiding LOL! Stepping outside our comfort zone is a great way to improve your musicianship-- which is another thing I'll be focusing on this year-- improving my craft instead of chasing gear. Of course I'll take y'all along for the ride too~</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="color: #800180;"><i>"Nothing ever stays the same</i></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: verdana;"><i>It's always gonna change</i></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #800180; font-family: verdana;"><i>I'm on my way... Yeah, Yeah!!</i></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-7nPPrUwSkolxTmNyssct-m1GyrvC1Rge74V6su3MjbHyFqjleS4ulzfhMsa5g1cjv-S81dDA5N_PvMryGs30G6744OuMTro2-_JoYF58hyphenhyphenlcb-q9waiJoxoYdDOsUReGAJR781UfVK1qBHY5CRJYZ7A_UYPnhkOU7rcuJQxABXFhI_6TvQ63LR8h8JZ/s3195/YoFanguitar.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3195" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-7nPPrUwSkolxTmNyssct-m1GyrvC1Rge74V6su3MjbHyFqjleS4ulzfhMsa5g1cjv-S81dDA5N_PvMryGs30G6744OuMTro2-_JoYF58hyphenhyphenlcb-q9waiJoxoYdDOsUReGAJR781UfVK1qBHY5CRJYZ7A_UYPnhkOU7rcuJQxABXFhI_6TvQ63LR8h8JZ/s320/YoFanguitar.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>...Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span></p>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-1700479021936818482023-02-11T18:41:00.004-08:002023-02-11T18:49:51.539-08:002023 New Year Update<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;">Happy New Year!!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Yeah, it's already February-- and it's been nearly a year since my last post, so here we go~</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i></i></b></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxI_ZbgM_kLgXy4sxgCamxxHLXjlKPSjVbSsPyDjAQ_npMcxz1yO8rjw1ZSpxlIxyY6prvJaaOOn88AfMwdzx5cBkB9GEICxkVAIHwCTnG0_XbB855jmWem-cMgd-kFzmolwIEL-eU9pGv2z149kvgdtJlyULkYvuG9ky-X81T-KtyZ7J84mL2J2bkmg/s3931/fenderAS.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3931" data-original-width="1746" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxI_ZbgM_kLgXy4sxgCamxxHLXjlKPSjVbSsPyDjAQ_npMcxz1yO8rjw1ZSpxlIxyY6prvJaaOOn88AfMwdzx5cBkB9GEICxkVAIHwCTnG0_XbB855jmWem-cMgd-kFzmolwIEL-eU9pGv2z149kvgdtJlyULkYvuG9ky-X81T-KtyZ7J84mL2J2bkmg/s320/fenderAS.jpeg" width="142" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>What happened to 2022?</i></b></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Last year went by in a flash for us here at Bass Adventures HQ, and was full of <i>adventure.</i> We had planned on moving, but HOLY COW!! Costs for moving had gone through the roof, and crazy high housing prices, insured all the plans we made went out the window... <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Despite all the craziness of 2022, I still managed to spend a good amount of time in my bass dojo. Decided to thin my bass collection to just a few core instruments, explored several different string types by various manufactures, and dabbled with as many effects as possible. </span></p><p><b style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /></i></b></p><p><b style="font-family: verdana;"><i>Now it's 2023! </i></b></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">This year I'</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">m going to focus improving my skill on the bass, and with music in general, and find a way to include that here on the blog.</span></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrETqkOWJh5nxaaBkF-ExHDroEPt1jDkZ5qdMgdvZnZhHcVKymbLtfuRFd782L3KdBYBU41ova7ArIK27UUo_YfQAX1xhmzOzGPqsBwP6yQ6nXgBlJh0YdHXGVe6Col8d87m8LPTaWFjfPnzjJAqnTq4lU272qZDCKDoIZouOytARIG4VLLoaHu89xzA/s4032/Desk.jpeg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrETqkOWJh5nxaaBkF-ExHDroEPt1jDkZ5qdMgdvZnZhHcVKymbLtfuRFd782L3KdBYBU41ova7ArIK27UUo_YfQAX1xhmzOzGPqsBwP6yQ6nXgBlJh0YdHXGVe6Col8d87m8LPTaWFjfPnzjJAqnTq4lU272qZDCKDoIZouOytARIG4VLLoaHu89xzA/s320/Desk.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Work-shop & music dojo overlap</i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;">A lot of reviews are on the way too, fear not! Keep in mind that all gear featured here I've paid for myself-- so there's no "paid influence" to be found-- <i>for better or worse</i>.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">One of the things I was most looking forward to posting was a desk/guitar work station I built the year before. Not only will I post about that this year, but also how it's worked out after a few years of use.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>What's next?</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6uIg-oBTfayXuh3QRJ0mSuDgOK21P9o4s6hK6HIKxwTBPQWXG0W9-4Lyk00a3EBLsmSMhK4WbicWC_vlncD9-KS5yZ-ccAIkwrPOKkVrW4_gv7rschLM71BU_9IbnHXaH-n0F_vIsRtbkIN7zOqUJ6jOV8Kt7E5xJ38CySot_1Ef0O27zANcHSSc5A/s1024/68charger.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="1024" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6uIg-oBTfayXuh3QRJ0mSuDgOK21P9o4s6hK6HIKxwTBPQWXG0W9-4Lyk00a3EBLsmSMhK4WbicWC_vlncD9-KS5yZ-ccAIkwrPOKkVrW4_gv7rschLM71BU_9IbnHXaH-n0F_vIsRtbkIN7zOqUJ6jOV8Kt7E5xJ38CySot_1Ef0O27zANcHSSc5A/s320/68charger.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: times;">Ooooh that tasty tone!</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;">Have you ever owned a car that you loved, but later sold because it was a too impractical for you at the time, only later to end up regretting letting it go? Me too! And in the case of a bass I loved then let go-- well, recently I searched, saved and secured one of those lost instruments(!) What bass am I referring to you ask...?</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>...Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p></blockquote><p><br /></p>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-17389960991156579542022-03-01T11:51:00.001-08:002022-09-17T15:55:15.081-07:00Gear Review: Music Man Bongo 4H<div><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">It's Christmas Eve 2020; my wife and I are relaxing in front of the TV. Surfing the web on my iPad, I'm exploring the world of Music Man's Bongo; a bass that grabs the attention of players & non-players alike. </span></div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; font-size: 14.85px;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJwmNcKTrNTnWLwNCtMZFccmiM8-fKwGFh66Y2atKdj9rSaf_RciQ37CvG3J5BCO90mNMl7E2kM1xmcpRFMgxyGbOJBFzus955YH32hiZIbUpKGSyRPqunYR4etufxJa8GZidQg_-VnlnewB2ZGMoaaZi6pXC6UrS7JmTH53xhhdntA8KsqvDOAx2WBw=s3867" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2602" data-original-width="3867" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJwmNcKTrNTnWLwNCtMZFccmiM8-fKwGFh66Y2atKdj9rSaf_RciQ37CvG3J5BCO90mNMl7E2kM1xmcpRFMgxyGbOJBFzus955YH32hiZIbUpKGSyRPqunYR4etufxJa8GZidQg_-VnlnewB2ZGMoaaZi6pXC6UrS7JmTH53xhhdntA8KsqvDOAx2WBw=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: arial;">Well, it's different than... any other!</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;">Sitting next to </span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span>each other, she watches me scroll through the photos and surprisingly began asking questions about the strange looking bass. Stumbling upon a used Firmest-Purple 4-string, single pickup model for sale</span><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">, and seeing its low price she says to me, <i>"Merry Christmas! Click on the By Now button before someone else does."</i> Truly a Christmas miracle! </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Ever since the Bongo's introduction in 2003, I was intrigued by the futuristic looking instrument. It's design was so different than anything else, that it created a lot of waves in the music community; for better or worse. Among the popular criticisms: </span><i><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span>"</span><span><span>It looks like a toilet seat..."</span><span> "</span><span>It's Qbert with strings!</span></span></span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;">"</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></span></i><span style="font-family: verdana;"> For those unencumbered by traditional design, and open to something new, this bass was a breath of fresh air. After all, why does every bass have to be a Fender Shaped Object? While I really liked the Bongo design, I knew my bandmates would chase me out the door-- swiftly! That was then...</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">...Now, almost two decades later and with a new band, I was excited to take the Bongo out for a spin. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgABpy1ht7bfJQZwN_PgL8GAJReA2vho4eBgkk5UhBWRb8l3gc7a-Fi8mjn3TrAp5fQH97rZxt2Z09107_UPfsEne3lItlSu-rXpRJF0nO-hcLV6sRz7hAknBwKF-SK7focIQzYaGnbC8KQY-MfateyfDhhM6Z3YQ6QKZrf6mpKFIB6sNTemzEj8uu9xA=s2887" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1909" data-original-width="2887" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgABpy1ht7bfJQZwN_PgL8GAJReA2vho4eBgkk5UhBWRb8l3gc7a-Fi8mjn3TrAp5fQH97rZxt2Z09107_UPfsEne3lItlSu-rXpRJF0nO-hcLV6sRz7hAknBwKF-SK7focIQzYaGnbC8KQY-MfateyfDhhM6Z3YQ6QKZrf6mpKFIB6sNTemzEj8uu9xA=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">A rare-bird today; unofficially discontinued 4H</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><u>Details:</u></b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">Under the hood, a 3-band 18v preamp powering a single neodymium magnet humbucker <i>(opposed to the traditional ceramic, or alnico).</i> That combo was very unique at the time. Now, 18V preamps are common, and even the new StingRay Special features an 18v preamp <i>(different design in the 'Ray)</i>, and neodymium pickups.</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">It's important to note that there are two different versions of the Bongo: </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">- 4H (single pickup) has a three-band preamp. </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">- 4HH (2-pickup) has a four-band with a stacked high/low mid control. </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">Additionally, an important feature that flys under the radar, is that the 4H model positions its pickup further from the bridge than that of the 4HH model. This unique feature <i>further</i> makes the 4H tone distinct. </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><b><u>Fit & Finish</u></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">My Bongo finally arrived in early Jan 2021. Being played for two years by the original owner, the bass proudly boasts a few battle scares. Most require a second look to find. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI1uhGxlHWiwneHQQNRAUQFzQNdUVzgeJXf_9IRHo6aNjmdwbF_tFb8wVbiz-LRadY4dM0nMTzyaPRTOb3LamwYQHw_jHCyhexR-LcUGebBwCObgGN4R5FCI5gbhfEU_fDytZgo6S3JXx8RIkL5J4QLCf0ydaA8KycjYjenchzeTI3Ko_FMxL4OLT3UQ=s4032" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI1uhGxlHWiwneHQQNRAUQFzQNdUVzgeJXf_9IRHo6aNjmdwbF_tFb8wVbiz-LRadY4dM0nMTzyaPRTOb3LamwYQHw_jHCyhexR-LcUGebBwCObgGN4R5FCI5gbhfEU_fDytZgo6S3JXx8RIkL5J4QLCf0ydaA8KycjYjenchzeTI3Ko_FMxL4OLT3UQ=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">A few scars, yes-- but check out that paint! </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">The knobs breeze past their indents, but again it's nothing to be concerned about as everything works wonderfully. Finished in a glossy, slightly metallic purple which covers the bass top to bottom, the neck is satin for comfortable playing. Fingerboard is rosewood, and the frets surprisingly don't show any wear(!) A five-bolt cutaway neck heel keeps everything stable. Everything from the tuning keys to the bridge saddles have a high quality feel. Like most all Music Man instruments, the truss-rod <span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">adjustment is the easiest of any other manufacturer. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiI7yucQVNb43LelMIa8r6E4haPU-lQFUoufpSmSwvpXBRmEbiF9FALHFPf7LCZhlQrAurjLGr1u9CeJUVAmZ6t7el1gAcqVYIKkCtcMTZtzRaLfXhGqBne39Q8atAu_BC1JzMpNxquiEVXV6RbIHMSzb3ZlKXR8hdlhC40MrToP7BKYJPq9atZB00Dzw=s3655" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3655" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiI7yucQVNb43LelMIa8r6E4haPU-lQFUoufpSmSwvpXBRmEbiF9FALHFPf7LCZhlQrAurjLGr1u9CeJUVAmZ6t7el1gAcqVYIKkCtcMTZtzRaLfXhGqBne39Q8atAu_BC1JzMpNxquiEVXV6RbIHMSzb3ZlKXR8hdlhC40MrToP7BKYJPq9atZB00Dzw=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">That long, deep bevel-- serious comfort </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><b><u>Feel & Sound:</u></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">Tone is subjective, but most will agree that the Bongo sounds great! It's tough to get a bad sound from it-- in fact, I haven't found one! </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">Strung with stainless steel strings of an unknown origin, setting</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"> the cut/boost tone controls on center with volume on full, the Bongo has a full and aggressive tone. <br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">Adjusting the preamp controls easily tames the </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">aggressiveness, while further tweaking the tone controls give the tone even more bite and punch. Headroom is seriously impacted with the 18v system; returning to a 9v, or passive bass after playing the Bongo for a few hours makes the others feel quite... <i>lacking. </i>The trick here is to play those basses first-- then reach for the Bongo. Up, up and away!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><b><u>Living with it:</u></b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Since the Bongo arrived in the middle of our state's Covid-Lockdown, I had a lot of time during the past 13-months to seriously play and discover what it has to offer. Soon after it's arrival I changed the strings to DR Pure Blues to tame the neutral setting a bit. It also sweetened up the tone. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; font-family: verdana;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxW6ddo262kLgV5A37wUL8Gu_CFYT1C6jKqGINKaYHSMoE7NANDwRZGQOjcn6HXOo_Q8G24xGglaIuPQYSbA6ZVuKN-rs8wOSIcVodaS5zhHn5Z0hHBk51SDJutmZctzSubONCqBTiKiy0PRdiH0rQVu1Mxo6t_UhMGpnBHY3yqUGchd-yd2Ply9xjEQ=s4032" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxW6ddo262kLgV5A37wUL8Gu_CFYT1C6jKqGINKaYHSMoE7NANDwRZGQOjcn6HXOo_Q8G24xGglaIuPQYSbA6ZVuKN-rs8wOSIcVodaS5zhHn5Z0hHBk51SDJutmZctzSubONCqBTiKiy0PRdiH0rQVu1Mxo6t_UhMGpnBHY3yqUGchd-yd2Ply9xjEQ=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">3-Band Pre with 18v of Power! </span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><br /></span></span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Such a noticeable difference after the string change, along with such an interactive preamp, makes me believe these basses were designed to be sensitive to the player's input. That sensitivity makes for a great instrument to explore, with so many more tones available compared to other single-pickup basses.</span></span></span></div><div></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">Playing for a few hours with a normal guitar strap gets uncomfortable, as the bass weighs just under 10 pounds. After installing a set of Dunlop Straplcoks I was able to use my favorite wide strap which eliminated the discomfort. Speaking of comfort, the body is contoured along the full upper edge with a deep bevel allowing the players arm to rest comfortably when playing. </span></div><div><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: verdana; font-size: 14.85px;"> </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span>Having a few nice basses to play, I find myself reaching for the Bongo when at home practicing for the weekend service. There's something about the Bongo that allows me to simply plug & play, without having to think much about the preamp settings. Everything about the bass is just comfortable-- especially during those long rehearsals, or practice sessions.</span><span style="font-size: 14.85px;"> </span></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKtGJXzKWeJzJUGWAiArfm_aobSgIChtuyh3h7nK8BnmyL3XM6t8FuGpQ9qbTA9DSQuuqyKHFEY8HJbzW48XnMEB0KVFRNAe5nS6QEHk6Slr015u-FTw0401zdcDzjq2sKOsbwmuy3KAUo84hFY6x1vo-EV9J8-63REnaVWnjRuW4Oo6MFt4i3Jl3oQA=s850" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="620" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKtGJXzKWeJzJUGWAiArfm_aobSgIChtuyh3h7nK8BnmyL3XM6t8FuGpQ9qbTA9DSQuuqyKHFEY8HJbzW48XnMEB0KVFRNAe5nS6QEHk6Slr015u-FTw0401zdcDzjq2sKOsbwmuy3KAUo84hFY6x1vo-EV9J8-63REnaVWnjRuW4Oo6MFt4i3Jl3oQA=s320" width="233" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">"Samurai Bassist." It is the way</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span>On stage, it's always easy to dial in a tone that cuts through while remaining full bodied. No matter the complement of instruments on stage; keyboards, a pair of electric guitars, heavy playing drummer, acoustic guitars, violin, male & female singers-- the Bongo can fit into any combination. Lately our typical band has been simply an acoustic guitarist, a male and female vocalist and occasionally a keyboardist. In this setting, the Bongo easily fills the bottom end with clarity. </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span>Since we don't have a drummer, I try to enhance the bottom end as much as possible without being boomy. With that goal in mind, I recently installed a set of D'Addario Chromes flat-wound strings.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 14.85px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhkvIZXjeEPcNSeYla9-MkXJLve5W08WQSYa4M8XyFMFEVTPJ3TyUNYMMRXxBYA-ORQJdwdNc7BsuPg8w5Hm86YymmNHQ_vbIYHtVZWC_y0dGzfXoJERxem-KHWopPKcbSn3jtLQQnVgtcI2ntY4-ctzbnNc__z8JXwouc4R4_R-YxvSkDE8j1-nzfgvw=s1280" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhkvIZXjeEPcNSeYla9-MkXJLve5W08WQSYa4M8XyFMFEVTPJ3TyUNYMMRXxBYA-ORQJdwdNc7BsuPg8w5Hm86YymmNHQ_vbIYHtVZWC_y0dGzfXoJERxem-KHWopPKcbSn3jtLQQnVgtcI2ntY4-ctzbnNc__z8JXwouc4R4_R-YxvSkDE8j1-nzfgvw=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>A match made in Heaven</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span>Doing so enhanced the fullness of the tone, and fattened up the D and G strings. Remember, this bass is sensitive to minor changes, so going from rounds to flats-- </span><i>even though they are modern flats</i><span>-- took this bass to another level of goodness. It's tough to accurately describe how full, clear and punchy this combination of a Bongo wearing Chromes can be. While the flats do take away some of the high end in the neutral setting, the preamp has such a wide range that I can regain those lost highs and still retain that full, fundamental of the flats. It's a wonderful thing!</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span>It's design having been around for nearly 20-years now, the Bongo has settled in as an accepted instrument, ridiculed only by the hardest-hearted bassists who simply can't let go of the past. My current bandmates think the Bongo looks great and often complement me on its sound. Kids often approach the stage when we are packing up to ask questions about it, and express their desire to learn to play-- because the look of the bass! </span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">Every time that happens I'm transported back to my first time seeing Geddy Lee playing his Rickenbacker 4001, and being struck by such a cool looking guitar-- and that sound(!). <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; font-size: 14.85px;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjX4ZQd1kR5TT2viuXWvKGIdKom5Jmdsl7KX4g4MPSkC8GIOnPB1Ss3Uk4hhS8vIccRfqb6OZQ4hQ3hi0JXCYkNlGvP8X-h_WI145A1bSIImJOwgJAwsSZU6ORDyvCTe-ti52IgrPBGOwl5-qn4fPb_hPbp58bRtP1X52Lgj8OVwvDPN1CSRgUTHQFPFQ=s1836" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1220" data-original-width="1836" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjX4ZQd1kR5TT2viuXWvKGIdKom5Jmdsl7KX4g4MPSkC8GIOnPB1Ss3Uk4hhS8vIccRfqb6OZQ4hQ3hi0JXCYkNlGvP8X-h_WI145A1bSIImJOwgJAwsSZU6ORDyvCTe-ti52IgrPBGOwl5-qn4fPb_hPbp58bRtP1X52Lgj8OVwvDPN1CSRgUTHQFPFQ=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Geddy Lee "Exit Stage Left"</i></td></tr></tbody></table></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;">It was Geddy and his bass that stoked that flame of desire within me to take up music. The thought that my Bongo might inspire the next generation is worth more than I can put into words.</span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span>Should you find yourself considering a Bongo of your own, but still have questions, feel free to ask away! Until next time...</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span><i><b>...Stay tuned & in tune!</b></i></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;"><br /></div><br /><br />Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-16378366705535015562022-02-19T16:05:00.010-08:002022-03-07T16:58:15.689-08:00UPDATED for 2022!<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>Blog Updates!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(43, 0, 254);"><i>Spent the afternoon on blog maintenance, and added quite a few goodies. Here are a few highlights & quick links to a few of the more popular pages:</i></span></span></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYgRTjUGvEfEFp_6QxO9DtkjFSqSAWsRORIZBK8vmsBs7mND3vahbPkkS2q_D9XADW6mL4lFsCT2fWBfoOSIkQ9gTZmtK33pXoJ9aqqT6kFPjPouPbZnLtTX5zKBG7s2eYt5MRI0kKIjPoiZvSCafdas2rv9q-roxmAE1lO7NwYkdMXGzX4Ctn5TQXMQ=s1280" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYgRTjUGvEfEFp_6QxO9DtkjFSqSAWsRORIZBK8vmsBs7mND3vahbPkkS2q_D9XADW6mL4lFsCT2fWBfoOSIkQ9gTZmtK33pXoJ9aqqT6kFPjPouPbZnLtTX5zKBG7s2eYt5MRI0kKIjPoiZvSCafdas2rv9q-roxmAE1lO7NwYkdMXGzX4Ctn5TQXMQ=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/clattermusic/" target="_blank">Clatter rocking the stage</a></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><u><a href="http://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/p/manu.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">"Reviews"</span></a></u> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Page has been updated and organized for easier access</span></p><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><u><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="http://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/p/rigs-tips.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">"Rigs & Tips"</span></a></span></u></span><span> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Page updated & dead links removed. </span></div><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Added a rig-rundown for Amy Humphrey of Clatter<span style="color: red;"> </span></span><br /><b style="font-family: "Marck Script";"><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">(Don't miss this one!)</span><span style="color: #674ea7;"> </span></b></p><p><span><span style="caret-color: rgb(43, 0, 254);"><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Added a rig-rundown for Tim Starace of the YYNOT; </span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><i>"We're an original progressive rock band, with a penchant for vintage </i>RUSH<i>." </i></span></span></span></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjkInaroL580F8RXHd4zY7-Rhv6GtHcyYaWZVSiQheUXY09Gsx3J2HO82RZpI6sYZpVVAIvk7w6DZreSsvwOeEdsGaHuGsO0_2EHsaK5ITxHsQg0LVlq9k8l8jCrYv8YSFtbA8rZZWFwYnIwcua_Er43hLqRcxwFUjioDFssPHqzaKx4jZ4BJs5bg7JbA=s1160" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1160" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjkInaroL580F8RXHd4zY7-Rhv6GtHcyYaWZVSiQheUXY09Gsx3J2HO82RZpI6sYZpVVAIvk7w6DZreSsvwOeEdsGaHuGsO0_2EHsaK5ITxHsQg0LVlq9k8l8jCrYv8YSFtbA8rZZWFwYnIwcua_Er43hLqRcxwFUjioDFssPHqzaKx4jZ4BJs5bg7JbA=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://www.yynotband.com" target="_blank">Original music with a touch of RUSH</a></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><u><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="http://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/p/links_24.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">"Links"</span></a></span></u></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Page updated & dead links removed. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Goodies added to videos, gear, and shops. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Be sure to let me know if you have any suggestions for additions-- I've been thinking about creating a "reader's corner" to collect & share.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">As always, keep checking back for updates, new material and more bass adventures...</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i> ...Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span></p><div><br /></div>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-23005836361528409332022-02-19T11:59:00.000-08:002022-02-19T11:59:34.917-08:00A Little Catching Up<span style="font-family: verdana;">It's been a while since we've last talked, eh?!</span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">A lot has happened during the last few years, while at the same time very little has happened-- thanks to COVID. Let's do a little catching up:</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Downsizing<br /> </i></b></span><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipIo2j6RGp-Btw7IQhi14ZnY4H5NrkTagL-fTErSwQLVjbYWcg7ZkIz8ePSfMyudc_Ewg-ZLjbZnZlPu3LJ9353CfafM6vOScukguqwmKXSQISaLAFAvYudH1fh3-rWCsFJ4ffwM3CASC4LVPYs9TNoeCxkjaXq7LiuPjNAxcWEuuhjLZLoIcBbLeawg=s3206" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2404" data-original-width="3206" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipIo2j6RGp-Btw7IQhi14ZnY4H5NrkTagL-fTErSwQLVjbYWcg7ZkIz8ePSfMyudc_Ewg-ZLjbZnZlPu3LJ9353CfafM6vOScukguqwmKXSQISaLAFAvYudH1fh3-rWCsFJ4ffwM3CASC4LVPYs9TNoeCxkjaXq7LiuPjNAxcWEuuhjLZLoIcBbLeawg=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A collection of redundancy</i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;">Previously, my collection of basses hovered around 10 or 12. In the insane summer of 2020 </span><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">(Covid, riots, elections, fires, etc.)</span></i><span style="font-family: verdana;"> I reevaluated-- </span><i style="font-family: verdana;">among other things--</i><span style="font-family: verdana;"> my bass collection, and decided to make some changes. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">During that year I realized I was playing only a few, while the others hung on the wall collecting dust. Also, my preference to have two examples of each bass was unnecessary. We're not dealing with Jaguars here, where it's wise to have two; one to drive while the other is in the shop. Yes, it was nice to have two of each, but I would actually only play my favorite of the two. <br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEje-EgwqI4S5mm52A6qWe-29ZXZ_76yLpVIfmp95wSWkmXL5QfZdMsfM7HbeOIaVfbb1PX7OQPCwQCp6-3AAmszQRAda9WmdIkAvCpFLMG02Psr-IYYTfBDQffaeBDMmtewV-Cc9hb4qEf6VEUgp6mM52xL9ebFngIGPI8PdV40mFAqoMIDikWTy1_cFQ=s509" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="509" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEje-EgwqI4S5mm52A6qWe-29ZXZ_76yLpVIfmp95wSWkmXL5QfZdMsfM7HbeOIaVfbb1PX7OQPCwQCp6-3AAmszQRAda9WmdIkAvCpFLMG02Psr-IYYTfBDQffaeBDMmtewV-Cc9hb4qEf6VEUgp6mM52xL9ebFngIGPI8PdV40mFAqoMIDikWTy1_cFQ=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Two of these would be wise, and fun!</i></td></tr></tbody></table>So, I began <a href="https://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2018/09/quick-tips-how-to-sell-my-bass.html" target="_blank">selling a few basses</a>. Psychologically, it was not an easy thing to do; each bass had a sentimental attachment to one degree or another. Most of the people I met along the way were super excited to become the new owner of my once cherished instrument. Meeting these people, visiting with them, handing off my old bass to them... helped me stay positive during those tough times and was a reminder of the importance of human interaction. While the internet, Zoom, and online forums have their place, nothing can replace in-person interactions. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>String Theory</i></b></span></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-n13pT9W2d1h8FiFZshtM5GHqE44eUsQF3xC8DYNkBDU3FBr14ISOZv4sMsw2swaSTr35h1kXTdMs6Ob6iME3eblr0b2n3YVxf9oy9b6jFg446BgnemdVBVCu8T1CjD4c8e6F6G-V3FlLTuqAQ6XKMpeEbTyGc3d9ZH9lh5znUTS8Uszeg2WkH9qrUQ=s3137" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2835" data-original-width="3137" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-n13pT9W2d1h8FiFZshtM5GHqE44eUsQF3xC8DYNkBDU3FBr14ISOZv4sMsw2swaSTr35h1kXTdMs6Ob6iME3eblr0b2n3YVxf9oy9b6jFg446BgnemdVBVCu8T1CjD4c8e6F6G-V3FlLTuqAQ6XKMpeEbTyGc3d9ZH9lh5znUTS8Uszeg2WkH9qrUQ=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Just a few string changes...</i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;">Last year I spent quite a bit of time </span><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">(and money)</span></i><span style="font-family: verdana;"> experimenting with different strings. New basses almost always ship with round-wound strings. Over the years I developed a preference for a certain type & gauge that instantly replaced whatever the bass came with. Having an abundance of time on my hands, and a little extra money from downsizing my bass collection, it was time to embark on a string adventure.</span></div><div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Round-wounds from DR, Ernie Ball, and others, soon branched out to flat-wound strings. Only once before had I even held a bass with flats. One of our local music stores had an early model G&L L-1000 strung equally old flat-wounds. About 15-seconds after freeing the bass from its wall hanger, realizing it was wearing flats-- then reading it's freakishly high price, I returned it to the wall. Fast forward to 2021 and my sting adventure entered the world of flat-wounds. What a ride, I must say!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Building, Standing, Maintaining </i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">As with many things in life, interests overlap. Part of my reevaluation mentioned above, was my practice space. Previously, the heart of my music room was an old office desk. It was cluttered with practice materials, notebooks, and a variety of tools used for string changes and such. Sitting at that desk was always a pain-- literally a pain! Long periods of sitting is terrible for those of us with back problems. Add playing a bass to the mix only exaggerated the problem. So, the problem solver in me went to work.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5YVEGb3JWIeUVmAsfS25yO0isqUlDWw4lIaEh8g0fuLjLvTk2jPCTuUKlOLKXFVwCrjXYSLGI2LqpfA8S1tOd2pHKY9qoBW4-dAWzrKHhfDAPKFo4eIr18DlQazcjrKmaUDj6ky_mDAj9LEoRuU84zg-HqHLfmf_4Io0HOZSXs6LPGxh_eff71tG76A=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5YVEGb3JWIeUVmAsfS25yO0isqUlDWw4lIaEh8g0fuLjLvTk2jPCTuUKlOLKXFVwCrjXYSLGI2LqpfA8S1tOd2pHKY9qoBW4-dAWzrKHhfDAPKFo4eIr18DlQazcjrKmaUDj6ky_mDAj9LEoRuU84zg-HqHLfmf_4Io0HOZSXs6LPGxh_eff71tG76A=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>No use sitting around!</i></td></tr></tbody></table>Identifying the problems, I used my woodworking skills to build a desk capable of serving multiple needs. Sitting is a problem, so it should be a desk tall enough for me to stand at. Clutter is a problem, so it should be capable of storing practice materials, and maintenance tools, yet retain quick & easy access to both. Oh, and it will live upstairs, so I need to be able to transport such a thing without much trouble. No problem! I've got the time, tools, and know-how to make it happen.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>A Gift And Inspiration</i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Downsizing the collection created a nice music-gear fund. In the evenings while watching TV with my wife, I sometimes </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEieMKpmSazGzsrQ7XSkaqSCpW9j4Q7_nrK-tCbhLYmlzfw1J90kwQ5ImgVZyB0PjA6p-18S7efpDRc4fCKRbArwXI4f-HNmVhRs84E_VRHNL6arkIy4eOD2tgc-pQwn22FVjlsR3skhHtb6nmn7eh-uiZv_v8mgFjnsbPOAQNRw_6jVxCgTO7CX22q9eg=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEieMKpmSazGzsrQ7XSkaqSCpW9j4Q7_nrK-tCbhLYmlzfw1J90kwQ5ImgVZyB0PjA6p-18S7efpDRc4fCKRbArwXI4f-HNmVhRs84E_VRHNL6arkIy4eOD2tgc-pQwn22FVjlsR3skhHtb6nmn7eh-uiZv_v8mgFjnsbPOAQNRw_6jVxCgTO7CX22q9eg=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Review on the way!</i></td></tr></tbody></table>surf the net, reading about the latest preamps and effects units. No matter how much I tried, just couldn't bring myself to buy anything new with my extra cash-- I'm happy with what I have. Quite happy indeed!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Meanwhile, my wife wanted to do something special for me; something I wouldn't do for myself. Gotta say, am I glad she did! So it happened that I went out on a limb and took a chance on a used example of a bass I've long admired, but never was <i>adventurous</i> enough to even test drive...<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>2022 & Beyond...</i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">With a new year underway, I'll be writing more about the adventures mentioned above, along with gear reviews, gig notes, and a few surprises. There is a special planned adventure that will take us across the country-- twice!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>...Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-73462974493835901972020-09-10T16:36:00.010-07:002020-09-27T10:18:16.369-07:00Gear Review: Three Flavors of Stingray Basses<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibawMZ5cepNMEUcYFDuuxV15TRZAnRzXWBoU8FhitqVSYROgxMu3znxREArdShE8_FqvrnM3OIfiD1qIfHM5rHThTbEJuFfA1p0fOx1ssOh234iNRlyrb7klPynHfnKhCOzuCwifFjrex5/s1600/MMstingray77-2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibawMZ5cepNMEUcYFDuuxV15TRZAnRzXWBoU8FhitqVSYROgxMu3znxREArdShE8_FqvrnM3OIfiD1qIfHM5rHThTbEJuFfA1p0fOx1ssOh234iNRlyrb7klPynHfnKhCOzuCwifFjrex5/s320/MMstingray77-2.jpg" width="246" /></a><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face="verdana, sans-serif">Since the last entry, I've streamlined my bass collection down to the bare essentials while in the process covering several sonic and intangible desires. </span><br />
<span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face="verdana, sans-serif">Sonically, the traditional core vintage tones are covered via my G&L L2000 with its "K-wiring" which turns the humbuckers into single coils and provides me with the classic Fender tones of the mighty P and J basses. Those MFD pickups are monsters themselves; that one bass could honesty be all a person needs. More on that in a future post.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMo-IEZ43647zllprGxsVLLJLGzWEnij0zclPltPMTOeOQKkuzIJmzXoc5HSMYiK5AtrtJASsuO-4Lur5xOoIrw9W7-5Q97G4WFDfJ0BYQCcyWbjS3DXT53h1hTScZVagi9ke2EXIwbk4/s1600/G%2526L_L2K.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1395" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMo-IEZ43647zllprGxsVLLJLGzWEnij0zclPltPMTOeOQKkuzIJmzXoc5HSMYiK5AtrtJASsuO-4Lur5xOoIrw9W7-5Q97G4WFDfJ0BYQCcyWbjS3DXT53h1hTScZVagi9ke2EXIwbk4/s200/G%2526L_L2K.jpg" width="174" /></a><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face="verdana, sans-serif">With the traditional vintage tones covered, I focused on <i><u>my</u></i> favorite tones-- those of the Stingray Bass. Along with the sonic characteristics, the Stingray also satisfies many intangibles.</span><br />
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<span face="verdana, sans-serif">So what's the deal with Stingray Basses and intangibles? </span><br />
<br />
<span face="verdana, sans-serif">Every player searches for an instrument capable of expressing the music they hear within themselves. --<i>Yes, I know that sounds corny, but it is what it is.--</i> The Stingray Bass is that instrument for me. Concerning the intangibles.</span></span><br />
<span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /><b><span style="font-family: verdana;">A Short History:<br /></span></b></span><span style="font-family: verdana;">
<span face="verdana, sans-serif">First, a little context. History of the Stingray Bass can be generalized in three eras: </span><br />
<span face="verdana, sans-serif">1. Pre-Ernie Ball era </span><br />
<span face="verdana, sans-serif">2. Ernie Ball 1985 --> (2 & 3 band EQ models) 2017<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">ish</span></i></span><br />
<span face="verdana, sans-serif">3. 2018 Stingray Special </span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQgtyii60mN_ZVs9Hv67bylGxhdVhOeI5j7DLqWEJ2wCi13R0fMpmL_dQ7M8abq1s4aZAcRgtKcSYEA1LA9G_k1Rvcv5Iz10SrJrCNPjVihgqVzBbPmrNDYU5aQ82OyPJUiwaQPbgYrog/s1600/Three_flavors.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="814" data-original-width="1407" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQgtyii60mN_ZVs9Hv67bylGxhdVhOeI5j7DLqWEJ2wCi13R0fMpmL_dQ7M8abq1s4aZAcRgtKcSYEA1LA9G_k1Rvcv5Iz10SrJrCNPjVihgqVzBbPmrNDYU5aQ82OyPJUiwaQPbgYrog/s400/Three_flavors.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R: Pre-Ernie Ball/ EB 1985-2000s/ 2018 Stingray Special</td></tr>
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<span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /></span><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">A little further into the historical weeds, Leo Fender <i>(under the "CLF" moniker)</i> created the Stingray for Music Man in the mid/late 1970s, until there was a falling out between the two companies. Leo went his way and opened G&L with his old buddy George Fullerton. Shortly thereafter Ernie Ball purchased Music Man and continued Stingray production which evolved mildly over the next several decades. </span><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">In 2018 Ernie Ball heavily redesigned Stingray, calling it the Special (which I wrote about <a href="http://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2019/12/times-makin-changes-stingray-special-pt2.html" target="_blank">here</a>). Sonically the new Special is capable of capturing all eras of Stingray tone. The feel however, is different. It feels modern, more comfortable and refined. And <i>that</i> is what makes the other models equally important, and why they remain in the Music Man catalog. </span><span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /><b><i>Pre</i></b></span><b><i>-Ernie Ball: "Old Smoothie"</i></b></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlDpecuNDs0v2Xq8bNcssFPUIWBWDq8z2IOJYiNAhGCUEeMe8rnCXZj0km630VOIVM4ex6Ei8hCFiuc7jKliTrEFa1bAzDbI3OfclMRWkW83LSjLXafFttglBK338F6dYv7oN61fW9yER/s2048/Smoothie.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlDpecuNDs0v2Xq8bNcssFPUIWBWDq8z2IOJYiNAhGCUEeMe8rnCXZj0km630VOIVM4ex6Ei8hCFiuc7jKliTrEFa1bAzDbI3OfclMRWkW83LSjLXafFttglBK338F6dYv7oN61fW9yER/s320/Smoothie.jpeg" /></a></div> <span style="font-family: verdana;">In a way,</span></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face="verdana, sans-serif"> the Stingray began with Old Smoothie in the mid/late 1970s</span><span face="verdana, sans-serif"> before Ernie Ball purchased Music Man. Old Smoothie was a prototype </span>Leo built, then given to Sterling Ball for field testing. Sterling's bass was a funky chocolate sunburst, as was the first release of the 40th anniversary model. Subsequently Old Smoothie was only available in butterscotch and mint green. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face="verdana, sans-serif">A special pickup makes the 40th anniversary "Old Smoothie" unique because the strings to pass between pole pieces as did Fender's Precision & Jazz basses. A logical layout considering Old Smoothie was one prototype of the then soon to be released Stingray; an evolution of Leo Fender's earlier creations. </span><br />
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<span face="verdana, sans-serif">The unique pickup layout does produce a smoother tone. It's still a Stingray, just smoother sounding. The powered two-band EQ spices the flavor with volume/bass/treble, yet still has the warmth of a passive bass.</span></span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij87s-vmIrHSRn94Bnk-caoAiPlEUzvK1ytJ1FZOIvIqc7wgjjESSv765-GBbfnfAp7Gncncvk8iLMhpnfxxJeRKF9sCqrx2DmfZnzgTbZf7GVx5jWzxQxWzhZyVX2YxS23cxPr2e5THi2/s2048/slabbody.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1383" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij87s-vmIrHSRn94Bnk-caoAiPlEUzvK1ytJ1FZOIvIqc7wgjjESSv765-GBbfnfAp7Gncncvk8iLMhpnfxxJeRKF9sCqrx2DmfZnzgTbZf7GVx5jWzxQxWzhZyVX2YxS23cxPr2e5THi2/w138-h205/slabbody.jpeg" title="Classic slab body" width="138" /></a><span face="verdana, sans-serif"></span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">What stands out to me with Old Smoothie is the way the feel influences how I play it. The shape of its glossy neck, the small fret wire, its slab body... all contribute to how I interact with the instrument. And this is what I mean about intangible-- it has a personality and a vibe unique from other basses, even from other Stingrays. Smoothie didn't make it to production, but that which did-- the more aggressive sounding one-- was a big success for the small company. </span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;"><b><i>Stingray in the Ball's court</i></b></span><span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqHun-5Ixs4mh3fSW1eRCX2Zz2lIdpZ9N6-NLyXsehEtr9DVwPV7jIVUv91pUCULPJ1AzMgkhFtP06j1jOp0VukZgelvosy7ByBuCYcbK4UVejEgF6DB7KRcvfLLxpOsZN0Fm7n77lclWv/s2048/chococlassic.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqHun-5Ixs4mh3fSW1eRCX2Zz2lIdpZ9N6-NLyXsehEtr9DVwPV7jIVUv91pUCULPJ1AzMgkhFtP06j1jOp0VukZgelvosy7ByBuCYcbK4UVejEgF6DB7KRcvfLLxpOsZN0Fm7n77lclWv/s320/chococlassic.jpeg" /></a></div></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">"Stingray Classic" models were introduced in 2010. While similar to Smoothie in construction, the Classic represents later models produced under the Ernie Ball banner. With a slightly different 2-band EQ and period correct headstock logo, the main difference between the two is the pickups. Classic models come loaded with the traditional EB humbucker which is more aggressive than Smoothie and represents the sound most of us know as the Stingray. </span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-family: verdana;">This particular example from 2011 is a rare bird with a rosewood fingerboard and a chocolate sunburst finish Music Man called "retro-burst;" a finish very reminiscent to the first Old Smoothie, and available for only two years. Both models sport the classic slab body, figured maple necks, vintage type frets and most importantly from a players perspective-- modern appointments such as the wheel-type trussrod adjustment. </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU5W_fg7cez_DF44yYNlkITgmJsyj4TNm2V-QwS899cBkDNDsbsXyTCEqvnR8d-QaJkUP3vplxXeauNUzY6PPtRgo1N4QRaFnpnJISWzzUTCtcv3i0mawb6Z1CPEobSCeA-D9MJ2DgxAvP/s2048/darkcherymocha.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1428" data-original-width="2048" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU5W_fg7cez_DF44yYNlkITgmJsyj4TNm2V-QwS899cBkDNDsbsXyTCEqvnR8d-QaJkUP3vplxXeauNUzY6PPtRgo1N4QRaFnpnJISWzzUTCtcv3i0mawb6Z1CPEobSCeA-D9MJ2DgxAvP/w256-h178/darkcherymocha.jpeg" width="256" /></a></div></span><span face="verdana, sans-serif"><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /></span></div><b><span style="font-family: verdana;">Intangible defined:</span></b></span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">Something <i>"unable to be touched or grasped; not having physical presence."</i> While we are talking about basses that <i>do</i> have a physical presence, intangibles become subjective-- to the person playing the instrument. For me, these two basses feel like vintage models without having to fuss with the questionable dependability inherent with vintage instruments. </span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">Having played many vintage instruments back when they were simply called "used" and "old," these new models actually do feel like the old ones and sound different than the modern basses. These weigh a bit more, are a little less comfortable as they don't have the belly & arm reliefs and surprisingly I do find myself wanting the third part of modern EQs-- the mid control- <i>gasp!!</i>. Those differences change the way I interact with the instrument compared to modern design basses. As such they force me to play differently that also reminds me of the old basses. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="verdana, sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">As I mentioned, intangibles will differ with each player who picks up the instrument. For me, these feel vintage; a younger player may not make those connections. Younger players lacking a life history with the original instruments should also still enjoy these modern classics as the fit and finish are top notch! It seems the attention to detail are a little more apparent than the standard basses leaving the factory. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face="verdana, sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b><i>A brave new world:</i></b></span></span></div><div><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik_Jd2L3AtKQAb7iVZzMrZjSwHSOviw5KQWLxgjsUmDDgqERR6vy9xLQInAA1eTPdV8kpEHbTYAcbn20e4AHf_LveIwNvdUzwlUlXaH0zDE9l4C_ycH_fxDWCQsRAROpMTYN6z5d3Aze3i/s1270/newray.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik_Jd2L3AtKQAb7iVZzMrZjSwHSOviw5KQWLxgjsUmDDgqERR6vy9xLQInAA1eTPdV8kpEHbTYAcbn20e4AHf_LveIwNvdUzwlUlXaH0zDE9l4C_ycH_fxDWCQsRAROpMTYN6z5d3Aze3i/s320/newray.png" width="320" /></a></div></b></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">In 2018 Music Man released its updated flagship bass, the Stingray Special. In essence, the new Specials' are Stingrays for the modern day. For me, two updates stand above the rest: 1. The harshness of the Stingray's tone was tamed, 2. the bass is far more comfortable to play.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">However, the Special is not the only Stingray to address that first point. For those who want a less-harsh sounding Ray, but prefer the classic styling and appointments of older models, Old Smoothie may be the answer. </span><br />
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</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Originally released wearing a two-tone sunburst finish in 2016 as its 40th anniversary model, Music Man decided to continue offering the model in subsequent years with two additional colors mentioned above. Aside from the color change and lack of the "40th" logo on the back of the headstock, it is the same bass.</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDGm7DMgjz1RfQLVVlW42yWgAaYkphWvs_-gLtQjUrqIb5E9LkE-Ht9qOxgtPydN5gCykOGjRaC2PQ2saPyBXIik-svhbcgvMkoNXZy6ZJwnRg1_nX3cgf9jvSReZ0LcR1T5bhvOi6vTPX/s1631/SR2.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1631" data-original-width="1361" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDGm7DMgjz1RfQLVVlW42yWgAaYkphWvs_-gLtQjUrqIb5E9LkE-Ht9qOxgtPydN5gCykOGjRaC2PQ2saPyBXIik-svhbcgvMkoNXZy6ZJwnRg1_nX3cgf9jvSReZ0LcR1T5bhvOi6vTPX/s320/SR2.jpeg" /></a></div></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">What makes the new Stingray Special unique is the list of changes:</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">- New body contours </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">- 18V electronics </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Lightweight hardware</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Neodymium pickups</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Stainless steel frets</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Roasted maple neck</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">- Lightweight body woods</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">If I was limited to just one bass for the rest of my days, the Stingray Special is the one for me. It nails all the classic tones of the old models and thanks to the double humbuckers I can get a lot of additional great tones from the bass. Even though it lacks the intangibles associated with the other two models, this one has a vibe all its own-- and that aqua sparkle finish just slays me every time(!)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Including each of these models in the Music Man catalog provides us all with three fantastic flavors of Stingray tones-- more than enough to appeal to nearly every player considering a new instrument. Even more when you consider all the 5-string variants and recently a pair of short-scale Stingrays. Has there ever been a better time to be a bassist?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><b><i><span style="font-family: verdana;">...Stay tuned & in tune!</span></i></b></div><div><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
</div>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-38147813599725220492019-12-04T16:41:00.002-08:002019-12-04T16:50:13.437-08:00Time's Makin' Changes: Stingray Special pt.2<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just over one year ago, I went through a major change in my gear collection. All my P-Bass-type basses were sold off to fund a brand new Stingray Special, and shortly thereafter I returned <i>it</i> for the chance to own my "dream bass"-- a Rickenbacker 4003 <i>(two to be exact).</i> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Y8Paa2eqy21qLnr2eC-uaualecqhlfqfEnbC6o0IbFIpqAWcUHLWc-CwwDab8ZY8Je4JaeIDf6a_h97udGTksR7zTOVX6_oDLIuZCpyRUVORG8KNPqXZdvHdp4xoWC4cTZNGePo63Prm/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-10-28+at+5.19.43+PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Y8Paa2eqy21qLnr2eC-uaualecqhlfqfEnbC6o0IbFIpqAWcUHLWc-CwwDab8ZY8Je4JaeIDf6a_h97udGTksR7zTOVX6_oDLIuZCpyRUVORG8KNPqXZdvHdp4xoWC4cTZNGePo63Prm/s320/Screen+Shot+2018-10-28+at+5.19.43+PM.jpeg" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>Enjoying the Fireglow!</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At first I gladly accepted the quirks of the Ricky: its antique bridge, wide but shallow neck shape, neck dive, bubbling paint, stubby tuning posts, sharp body edges, and yes-- that large cover over the bridge pickup. On stage it was a struggle to keep the pickup noise at bay and the instruments weight was... <i>weighing</i> on my nerves. But damn, the things look fantastic!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">M</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ost of those quirks can be addressed with aftermarket parts, but I didn't really want to spend more money (on two basses) to do so. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislaCVQQ7e5u_XpyY8jaKflXKyQ3dvdlish7SLETIyquBRKFLDujs6EnRc33wRbfM5fYw0fxVwK4GUFY5ZjBmSJaDAxcVJFz1_hXU4tt33HaxP7d6oeeZx4tkn4pP9st6zB7g0gLf89Tto/s1600/SR2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislaCVQQ7e5u_XpyY8jaKflXKyQ3dvdlish7SLETIyquBRKFLDujs6EnRc33wRbfM5fYw0fxVwK4GUFY5ZjBmSJaDAxcVJFz1_hXU4tt33HaxP7d6oeeZx4tkn4pP9st6zB7g0gLf89Tto/s320/SR2.jpeg" width="181" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>Hello Baaaby!</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At the very time I was seriously considering what to do about the Ricks, I discovered that our local shop had a new Stingray Special in stock-- AND it was the very color I was unable to find last year-- Aqua Sparkle! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The next day I took both Ricks to our local shop and promptly secured my new Aqua Sparkle Stingray Special, which features a very dark ebony fingerboard and black hardware. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Most of us who've sold or traded away instruments have experienced "buyers remorse" of some kind. Meaning, you have a certain level of regret letting go of something which you were once very excited about. This time I don't have any whatsoever. Is it because I'm getting older and understand/ have accepted that tastes change over time? Maybe. Probably, yes. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVT-Ng4Xr43BO0e50yf4saOhdY9mpZOdj0Js8NM_a4xwmPUqRtNRansLvew_9PHpjB8wEl2j8cRBnMVAT1jTwCmJAG_7VfOkXU4ps1KYThK1z3UA-fmYxWp3eUDp7nDCeYzHOZdVUpJ1c/s1600/IMG_2850.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVT-Ng4Xr43BO0e50yf4saOhdY9mpZOdj0Js8NM_a4xwmPUqRtNRansLvew_9PHpjB8wEl2j8cRBnMVAT1jTwCmJAG_7VfOkXU4ps1KYThK1z3UA-fmYxWp3eUDp7nDCeYzHOZdVUpJ1c/s320/IMG_2850.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The opposite of plug & play, pedalboard ver.2</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Adding to that, I find myself seeking to simplify my life, which extends to my bass playing & collecting. For example, I was getting quite frustrated by the Rickenbacker's stereo output option, i.e. "Rick-O-Sound." This is a feature which allows the player to send two independent pickup signals from the bass to different amps, effects, etc. Using the Radial "BassBone" and a handful of effects I spent hours, days, weeks trying to find a useful combination that I could access quickly. It just never happened. What it did accomplish however, was to consistently grow frustration with the entire endeavor... and reinforce the desire to return to a simple plug & play philosophy. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gepsAIow8cQZc2x0VnD4RxXmv91llhY3losuiuKZ5l8neJ-Ot8Ap29_SWebYX9-mUjACzlTo6T0PS8bG0osT6fY1NBnxOhPAyd4bzcyFFS82AuMHavXzNepZJ3pm8A-09Gyd7cT8vCNO/s1600/3B8A7D40-5C8C-4253-8D24-172C58271C48_1_105_C.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gepsAIow8cQZc2x0VnD4RxXmv91llhY3losuiuKZ5l8neJ-Ot8Ap29_SWebYX9-mUjACzlTo6T0PS8bG0osT6fY1NBnxOhPAyd4bzcyFFS82AuMHavXzNepZJ3pm8A-09Gyd7cT8vCNO/s320/3B8A7D40-5C8C-4253-8D24-172C58271C48_1_105_C.jpeg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>An air-tight neck pocket</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Specs and my review for the new Stingray Special can be found <a href="https://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2018/10/review-music-man-stingray-special.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> though this new bass has a few differences. The fingerboard on this one is a very dark ebony, on which the white side position markers stand out brilliantly. On maple fingerboard SRs' the black markers on a dark roasted maple neck were difficult to see in low lighting. Fit and finish on this particular instrument is better than the previous-- specifically the neck pocket fitment is tight as can be. This one also feels to be noticeably more open and lively than the last; in the neck position I find a lot of useful tones whereas the previous seemed rather dark and difficult to use. This is to say that this instrument speaks to me in a way the other didn't. Both were fine instruments, but this one I have bonded with right away.</span><br /><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix4Yo0CW2Hf_WqHzEVorz22PmlA_KSzDQDT5j_ojUGQFiNJkFuhTcrlnw5uLVoZNCqWn5zm3y7LaHZnDU6yRHk-hIm_fEPWs_981WiDrPvKWnTqExsmHqfr3DNDpGpHcq2LqOPRV8CcvU-/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-12-04+at+4.22.24+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix4Yo0CW2Hf_WqHzEVorz22PmlA_KSzDQDT5j_ojUGQFiNJkFuhTcrlnw5uLVoZNCqWn5zm3y7LaHZnDU6yRHk-hIm_fEPWs_981WiDrPvKWnTqExsmHqfr3DNDpGpHcq2LqOPRV8CcvU-/s320/Screen+Shot+2019-12-04+at+4.22.24+PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>A finish with a rich heritage </i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lastly, the finish. That wonderful sparkly blue manipulator of light has long been my dream finish. I've come close a few times, once with a <a href="https://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2016/09/five-stringed-adventure-long-live-hot.html" target="_blank">G&L JB 5-string</a><i> (where I discovered that the B string simply gets in my way)</i> and that time my wife bought a teal-sparkle Telecaster, but never finding mine-- until now! The Stingray Special Aqua Sparkle is my new #1, and I don't even care that I traded two beautiful Rickenbackers to obtain it(!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Driving an old 1960s Dodge Charger is an experience everyone should have at least once in their lives. It's fun, it's physically demanding and a true joy; much like the Rickenbacker 4003. Living with one as a daily driver however, well that's something else entirely. In the end, I'm thankful to have had the last year with two beautiful Rick basses, but the time has come to pass that joy to someone else, while I enjoy the comfort and luxury of my new, modern bass... It's nice to be home!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>...Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span><br />
<br />Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-8081574823691500412019-09-20T10:20:00.003-07:002022-09-24T09:21:45.854-07:00Gear Review: Installing Strap Locks the Right Way<br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Many guitar and bass companies skimp on the strap buttons on their instruments. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLVvxdHF7-59_mCWX7YPGAfwZBLpGlOg3MMdjmGyeTu5uKwpiWC7ud4fX4x3GksvXGz_gZC9no8e0z74GFKBOEoQ5MU22cL4UyGEpoIpcR4aYNKmQc5k9ZzduoqiJRftkrBD5cTLV6Iz3/s1600/IMG_1838.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLVvxdHF7-59_mCWX7YPGAfwZBLpGlOg3MMdjmGyeTu5uKwpiWC7ud4fX4x3GksvXGz_gZC9no8e0z74GFKBOEoQ5MU22cL4UyGEpoIpcR4aYNKmQc5k9ZzduoqiJRftkrBD5cTLV6Iz3/s320/IMG_1838.jpeg" width="252" /></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">G&L, Music Man have excellent strap buttons stock. both feature wide tops that can be a bit of a pain when initially installing your favorite strap, but that minor inconvenience is what insures your instrument will not easily free itself from said strap.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">For most other companies the strap button is an afterthought; a cheap, tiny, </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">weaker than plastic </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">pot-metal alloy. If you have invested more than $20 on an instrument, you should consider replacing those buttons-- and most who do choose strap locks.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Today, there are many different versions of strap locks on the market, but there are two companies that stand out, and are very popular: <a href="http://schaller.info/en" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Schaller</span></a> and <span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.jimdunlop.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Dunlop</span></a>.</span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Schaller Vs. Dunlop</b></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KtEFIcrEgJv-89I5nh7jZub3ZfHgZw_ZV0Cbd38LiPeSgQ3V6x19ncGaE9F-jKYhqEP-6sZg_i5rL27on9jvk0SEmRMRy8piwGFqqZaLYCB4Z580o9SLbOdVButi0_fLwCMPcF7jdIB0/s1600/Schaller_S-Locks.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KtEFIcrEgJv-89I5nh7jZub3ZfHgZw_ZV0Cbd38LiPeSgQ3V6x19ncGaE9F-jKYhqEP-6sZg_i5rL27on9jvk0SEmRMRy8piwGFqqZaLYCB4Z580o9SLbOdVButi0_fLwCMPcF7jdIB0/s200/Schaller_S-Locks.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Schaller's new "S"-type locks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Both do an excellent job securing your strap to the instrument. Which one you choose depends on personal preference. Schaller units have a very narrow, grooved button that mounts to the instrument onto which a "U" shaped strap mounted clasp attaches to. A great design for those who will only use that specific strap with the locking device already attached. However, if you like to use different straps, or perhaps you forgot your's and have to borrow one without the locking device, your instrument will be far less secure.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Dunlop approaches things much differently. While the company has offered different interpretations of its strap lock design, the most common is the "Dual Design" which functions both as a locking unit, or as a standard, wide top strap button. The user has the ability to use any strap with or without the locking device, AND the lock can be used without even being attached to the strap, which is how I often use them.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Which One and Why?</b></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIiem2GC8SeF2iYwrzCzxV2wcIZNH4hK3pRG3fm8M9XAVsGtzF2Dl8_WibiNCWkAgdsYxqUTkuZABQrY-0D2_I3OlFdxijhQT9AJPna7pYQaEpti0mPDjYNT1RTR7LwlITmZCX5doPB2NX/s1600/dunlop.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIiem2GC8SeF2iYwrzCzxV2wcIZNH4hK3pRG3fm8M9XAVsGtzF2Dl8_WibiNCWkAgdsYxqUTkuZABQrY-0D2_I3OlFdxijhQT9AJPna7pYQaEpti0mPDjYNT1RTR7LwlITmZCX5doPB2NX/s200/dunlop.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dunlop's "Dual-Design" locks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">On occasion an instrument comes from the factory with Schallers as did my Rickenbackers. Shortly after taking delivery of my Ric, I bought the newly released "S-model" Schaller strap locks which feature an updated version of the strap portion. These are nice, but I still had problems with the locking portion on the strap loosening up-- even with the new design that incorporates a set screw. After a year of using them I was going to add a dab of Locktite to keep things in place, but then I'd have to buy additional sets for my other straps... at which point I decided to replace those with Dunlops.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Having used both systems over the years, the Dunlops are my favorite. They are simple to use and as mentioned, can be used without the locking unit when needed. However, the two companies use different sized screws to mount to the instrument-- <i>this</i> can be a serious pain in one's posterior! </span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbhw5FxYkqIc7VXGrv8TUWyO4JPI_PTZqNctJHV_LJzCSSlGlyRQ-4lvknY7zMUPCPWE1aZQVeOiBWchXMak02Sbq_OPxowTQ8RnwbRtbIc5HdFAPjwZ69dygC12EDMGEhzB2f8HLzedS/s1600/9612_IMG_3399_1.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbhw5FxYkqIc7VXGrv8TUWyO4JPI_PTZqNctJHV_LJzCSSlGlyRQ-4lvknY7zMUPCPWE1aZQVeOiBWchXMak02Sbq_OPxowTQ8RnwbRtbIc5HdFAPjwZ69dygC12EDMGEhzB2f8HLzedS/s200/9612_IMG_3399_1.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(L-R) Dunlop, G&L/MusicMan, Fender</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Installation</b><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Sometimes you will get lucky and find that the stock buttons were secured with a narrow-shanked screw, smaller than that provided with your new strap locks. If so, all you have to do is remove the old and replace with the new buttons via their larger screws.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Inevitably there will be times when the hole left behind from the stock screws is too large for the new buttons. It may also be that you find yourself with a guitar where the buttons have been yanked from the body, and you need to repair the stripped out hole. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b>Two Primary Methods </b></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">1. <u>Toothpicks</u>. This is the go-to method for a lot of people who want the cheapest, easiest solution possible, or for those without woodworking experience. The toothpicks fill the void and provide the desired screw something to bite into. On occasion people use glue with the toothpicks. This method works, and is a useful, temporary fix.</span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpEWlVB9A7YIX9mVVm7kgJqfWHPJsJv3WVg44sca_6heGYz0zcHjayApcjDjxIvCDn1-PosWRqM7ca-Mse1ooK-UQnj-LeOl4ypztCOazO032o7XCQ130wMyfIwCeq1vjgO0aTbmQ7H_S/s1600/IMG_2871.jpeg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpEWlVB9A7YIX9mVVm7kgJqfWHPJsJv3WVg44sca_6heGYz0zcHjayApcjDjxIvCDn1-PosWRqM7ca-Mse1ooK-UQnj-LeOl4ypztCOazO032o7XCQ130wMyfIwCeq1vjgO0aTbmQ7H_S/s200/IMG_2871.jpeg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$0.75 four-foot long dowel </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">2. <u>Dowels</u>. This is the preferred method for luthiers as it is a far more secure solution, but requires the time, tools, and maybe a little nerve for non-luthiers to accomplish. Having a bit of woodworking experience, and just enough nerve, I chose this route for my Rickenbackers. And to be honest, the task is actually quite easy and inexpensive to accomplish.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b><i>- Step 1.</i></b> Determine the size of the hole and source a corresponding sized dowel (I got mine from Lowe's for $0.75). In some cases it may be necessary to drill out the existing hole in order to create a specific size (usually when the original hole was damaged).</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwK52iOOHKwv-J-N4ALeNrTF9QBj1xEdV2hZlqCOdGP11pjSaNprz-KoO_sjqEFx-qf7jsiqj65c9ciKcsmEUi98xbDeW6HRjb3m12qlLZ89NxoW9036hkrbASMLDlpUt_hfI2-kMhJk0-/s1600/IMG_2872.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwK52iOOHKwv-J-N4ALeNrTF9QBj1xEdV2hZlqCOdGP11pjSaNprz-KoO_sjqEFx-qf7jsiqj65c9ciKcsmEUi98xbDeW6HRjb3m12qlLZ89NxoW9036hkrbASMLDlpUt_hfI2-kMhJk0-/s200/IMG_2872.jpeg" width="150" /></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><i><b>- Step 2</b></i>. Add a woodworking glue ("Titebond II" is my favorite) and the dowel. Allow 30-min to dry. Note: wood dowels tend to slightly vary in size. This required a little sanding for proper fit.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuB5rM-LS-zfJ_cgSS74BgOJMzTEYzkl0_0UjDQH0uZFra-72iPAGg06W_DiRJHaS73cBkCRqKmHRd4NeXK5eV4wRs9YBgxr3A8V5D2rYh9-p-qJKpqfY3ADH61FjN4ymPjEUoXhBwqJH/s1600/IMG_2873.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuB5rM-LS-zfJ_cgSS74BgOJMzTEYzkl0_0UjDQH0uZFra-72iPAGg06W_DiRJHaS73cBkCRqKmHRd4NeXK5eV4wRs9YBgxr3A8V5D2rYh9-p-qJKpqfY3ADH61FjN4ymPjEUoXhBwqJH/s200/IMG_2873.jpeg" width="150" /></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b><i>- Step 3</i></b>. Trim the dowel flush to the body. </span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Here you see I used a razor blade; no special tools needed. However, if you have access to one, a Japanese pull saw will save you the trouble of sanding flush any portion of the dowel that isn't flush. Again though, the job can be done with a simple razorblade and a measure of patience. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b><i>-Step 4.</i></b> With a steady hand, <b><i><span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://youtu.be/t0nv93Sazuw" target="_blank">drill a pilot hole</a> </span></i></b>into the newly installed dowel. The hole should be slightly narrower than the diameter of the screw you will be using. Now you simply screw in the new strap pin. That's all there is to it!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ6C1PtiTcKk0lopiKipIfpVcuL40VgjZp3RCdNqk01t5rZ9fC0HVGTgxzM8-kckgCvfk_opIIkJ6pW9ggNeaZlBGuM3ZTSSUkOAzNrYC5cMbmPEnfeuihRL7HSDtOBiXIULV21Hec-AG/s1600/IMG_2875.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ6C1PtiTcKk0lopiKipIfpVcuL40VgjZp3RCdNqk01t5rZ9fC0HVGTgxzM8-kckgCvfk_opIIkJ6pW9ggNeaZlBGuM3ZTSSUkOAzNrYC5cMbmPEnfeuihRL7HSDtOBiXIULV21Hec-AG/s200/IMG_2875.jpeg" width="150" /></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b><i>- Step 5.</i></b> Optional. To provide protection between the wood body & the metal strap pin, I cut a small circle of felt to fit in-between. This little piece of material also fills the gap, hiding the fact that the wide base of the new strap button overhangs the body slightly. The 8x10-inch section of felt cost just over one dollar from our local craft store-- which also sells wooden dowels(!) so I could have saved myself a trip to the hardware store had I gone here first. And being that you only need a small section of the material, you have a lot of room for trial and error.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><b><i>-Step 6.</i></b> Enjoy! Spending the extra time and effort will give you a sense of accomplishment that far exceeds the toothpick method. And you have the added assurance that the button is as secure-- or more so-- than it was when the instrument first left the factory. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7s7ip0-qGBfNekZVIFeAfkFsLxKXZ0tWqBQkZubXKNnluryp7JgbXN64OcTlgM9twX0VeZrbUUfglRetZy2crajXo8kdlA2Ue6ald2dLQnnIO-d9RZBsshxVWt-D1CIlyhXSZ1EKO24pV/s1600/IMG_2876.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7s7ip0-qGBfNekZVIFeAfkFsLxKXZ0tWqBQkZubXKNnluryp7JgbXN64OcTlgM9twX0VeZrbUUfglRetZy2crajXo8kdlA2Ue6ald2dLQnnIO-d9RZBsshxVWt-D1CIlyhXSZ1EKO24pV/s320/IMG_2876.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Until next time...</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> ....<b><i>stay tuned and in tune!</i></b></span>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-72363887616685710282019-07-13T13:09:00.001-07:002019-09-20T18:05:24.921-07:00Gear Review: Rickenbacker 4003; The '68 Dodge Charger of Basses...<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's been nearly a year since <a href="https://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2018/10/review-music-man-stingray-special.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">returning the new Stingray Special</span></a>, and I've spent all that time with my dream bass, the Rickenbacker 4003. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXHpDqO0K_ZEzl1OTQ7HooZZjPcp7rWa8F-fLPBXqAmbjID99mP_xIRqdjCeigZttW1TsHoD8dKt-etk_DuEFiaRokRztMEXygb5Pp-_q2hPyx3k2vUrEhRztgpaxmtAr8z0M7YMWUsQH/s1600/IMG_1791.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1133" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXHpDqO0K_ZEzl1OTQ7HooZZjPcp7rWa8F-fLPBXqAmbjID99mP_xIRqdjCeigZttW1TsHoD8dKt-etk_DuEFiaRokRztMEXygb5Pp-_q2hPyx3k2vUrEhRztgpaxmtAr8z0M7YMWUsQH/s320/IMG_1791.jpeg" width="226" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Actually, I ended up buying a pair; one in my favorite, now discontinued (in 2019) finish called Midnight Blue, and a second in the classic Fireglo (sunburst) finish. Why two? Mainly because I always try having a backup to my primary instrument. Thankfully, I found a few fantastic dealers that tend to have a good stock of Ric's, and at very reasonable prices.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Problems?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What took me so long to try what I've long regarded as my dream bass? There have been a lot of stories about the Ric bass being a fussy, high-maintenance instrument, and the recent arrival of internet bass forums served to amplify those stories. Then, in June 2017<a href="http://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2017/06/test-drive-rickenbacker-4003.html" target="_blank"> <span style="color: blue;">I actually got my hands on one for the first time</span></a> and was not thrilled with the in-stock example at a local <i>big-box-store</i>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Turns out that most of those problem stories concern versions made in the 1970s and 1980s, which have different truss rods than the modern versions. Anyway, there comes a time when you have to put things in their proper perspective, go with your gut and give it a try-- which I'm SOOOoooo glad I did! Theses modern 4003 basses still have two truss rods, but they function like any other bass, without the quirks of the earlier versions. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinG-8svr_c2o8-kXIF2d1OD1qLGAZBmI7FA0aNIDqNGToCE1dUZxKL-SFMEvpZwKf44P3-cxEa_sqLVIJoeo8iJWQkH3kqFqZ5SDvrMid-Rm2d7MtWB-SQXqxYYWcz5ZmXLJPNN7pg8LAv/s1600/IMG_1809.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1159" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinG-8svr_c2o8-kXIF2d1OD1qLGAZBmI7FA0aNIDqNGToCE1dUZxKL-SFMEvpZwKf44P3-cxEa_sqLVIJoeo8iJWQkH3kqFqZ5SDvrMid-Rm2d7MtWB-SQXqxYYWcz5ZmXLJPNN7pg8LAv/s320/IMG_1809.jpeg" width="231" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Buying Online </i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Each of these instruments came from different US dealers. First, the Midnight Blue model came from Dave's Guitar Shop in Wisconsin. The Fireglo came from a shop in Colorado called Wildwood. Both business have reputations for making sure their instruments are shipped in premium condition, with the customers chosen strings & gauges. Each arrived in SBK-type plastic fitted cases, packed in stout boxes intended to protect the instrument during shipping. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Setups on both were dead-on; far and away better than that first Ric I played back in 2017. The only thing I had to change was the strap-buttons, as my problems with Schaller straps-locks continue-- <i>but that's a story for another time</i>. A few hours with the basses in my workshop resulted in a happy upgrade to Dunlop buttons. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Why Such A "Primitive" Bass?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So what is it about the Ric that is so appealing? About 37 years ago I watched the Rush concert video, "Exit Stage Left" and was mesmerized by Geddy Lee's playing. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Watching Ged with his Ric is what sparked my desire to become a musician before I even knew the difference between a guitar and a bass.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Those kind of things stick with a person, as marketing departments are keenly aware. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">More</span> <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">recently I discovered a fantastic band that rekindled my desire for a Ric;<span style="color: blue;"> <a href="http://www.clatter.com/?fbclid=IwAR03LYt8qD1xIt2qnrmlCohLNwmjJnOqSpSe48XTQxUtwETIEYMl6yvow9o" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Clatter</span></a></span>, is a heavily groovy, two-piece melodic powerhouse featuring </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Amy Humphrey on bass. Have a listen to their tunes <i>(then buy an album or two),</i> and tell me if you can resist wanting to sample a Rickenbacker bass for yourself(!) </span></span></span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YwGy-vpkLKI/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YwGy-vpkLKI?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="color: #1c1e21; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);"><b><i>How Does It Play?</i></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To be perfectly honest, it isn't a great deal different than any other bass; aside from it's unique tone, the differences are in the details. The neck feels about as wide as a modern Fender P-bass, but with thick rolled </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">shoulders and slightly shallow (flatter) in the back. It is a very comfortable neck. Many people hate anything that isn't as slim as possible, but what they fail to consider is <i>this bass is different. </i>Not better, not worse. The neck is beautifully bound much like a Les Paul, and with its medium jumbo frets, I'm reminded of playing those old clunky guitars, which have become so popular many years after conception. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuay8uAa2DW2Kz-CllIjBeRZqFUrAziMO1QBypNanvSV03mnYGobP1IQbpKAbC40uX7L70_iVIIAu-aQWynBX6lXc0zaw5SP6mfL7d2KdreUd1-4Zdsw4OzJQuL6TJsnIqLEtVwxEiCs2u/s1600/RicFire2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuay8uAa2DW2Kz-CllIjBeRZqFUrAziMO1QBypNanvSV03mnYGobP1IQbpKAbC40uX7L70_iVIIAu-aQWynBX6lXc0zaw5SP6mfL7d2KdreUd1-4Zdsw4OzJQuL6TJsnIqLEtVwxEiCs2u/s320/RicFire2.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tuning pegs hold position well and are easy to operate. Its dual pickups are straightforward, with simple controls and a 3-way pickup selector and a push-pull knob that removes some bass tones for a more classic sounding Ric bass. There are two output options: the standard mono, and a very useful stereo output. Being able to split the signal enables you to simultaneously run your one base through two independent amps, and adding effects without loosing the fundamental bass tones. It's a fantastic idea! A great example of this option in use is<span style="color: blue;"> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFoGPyVfZDkzFoRKskJ1JyQ" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Clatter-- check out their Youtube page</span></a></span> for more details, as Amy makes good use of that feature.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The 4003 body is slim, light and well balanced with no neck-dive in either of the two I have. It's bridge is a bit of a pain to set, but works great once it's dialed in. There is a cover over the bridge pickup which I am thankful for, however, most people remove it because... well I really have no idea; they are likely just following orders from the internet. That cover provides a comfortable place to rest my hand, and provides a string reference-- perfect! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Downsides?</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ric changed its finishing method some years ago to comply with California's strict environmental codes, which has created some slight problems. Some claim that the finish is very delicate, which I agree with when compared to a thick polyurethane finish. The Ric finish is easily chipped when bumping into a drummers cymbals, a music stand, or the tip of a misdirected output cable. While in production, the hardware can be over tightened which on occasion creates a bubble in the finish around the overtightened bit. My blue 4003 has this problem along a small section of the bridge. However, it has not created any problems, and has not chipped away, or gotten worse. Again, internet warriors have made much noise about the finish on bass forums. Strangely, I've not heard of the guitars having this problem-- only basses. It is something to be aware of, but has absolutely no affect on the instrument, or my playing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In short, the Ric 4003 is an excellent <i>classic</i> instrument. It is a unique design, and not intended to be like anything else. "Classic" is an appropriate descriptor as that is what you are getting; an old design that's been very lightly updated and tweaked since its inception. There are other basses available that play easier, sound louder, weigh less, and cost less to buy. However, you won't easily find a bass that is more fun to play, or one that looks as cool as a Ric 4003. As for cost, a little research will save the prospective buyer A LOT of money on both the new and used market.</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Why A '68 Dodge Charger?</i></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the <a href="https://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2018/10/review-music-man-stingray-special.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">previous post</span></a>, I used an analogy to equate a Music Man Stingray Special with a new Lincoln Town Car, and the replacement instrument to a 1968 Dodge Charger. Having driven both cars, the comparison seems appropriate; the Dodge takes more effort than the Lincoln to drive well, as it is with the basses. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBY8EUIKcZaBH6N54nG0uhfZVIos33-JGGX9zm-AcvEOeuIW3BxCcmJR0WgT0XO18S8ZfovOb0pzXGPip8KeImbP8scUAmqI0b2OSB93cz6lPdekn3XQLPUQkZMAK2YreAC1nwNpGciNoR/s1600/68dodge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="800" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBY8EUIKcZaBH6N54nG0uhfZVIos33-JGGX9zm-AcvEOeuIW3BxCcmJR0WgT0XO18S8ZfovOb0pzXGPip8KeImbP8scUAmqI0b2OSB93cz6lPdekn3XQLPUQkZMAK2YreAC1nwNpGciNoR/s320/68dodge.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Music Man is very modern, with its 18v battery power, stainless steel frets, roasted neck, etc. By comparison, the Rickenbacker requires more effort to play as well, with its larger neck, clunky dimensions, limited range passive pickups and less comfortable body shape. Just as the Dodge is far more rewarding to drive, so is the Rickenbacker bass to play. The two also produce similar sounds: deep, low, and rumble with authority. It truly is a special instrument, quirks and all...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now about those strap buttons....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>...Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-52653249716241232082018-10-22T11:21:00.001-07:002018-10-22T11:44:55.301-07:00Review: Music Man StingRay Special<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While downsizing my collection and focusing on finding my "dream" bass, I had the pleasure of temporarily owning one of the new, 2018 StingRay Special's from Music Man.</span> <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_Te10AtCKoNsMOjtg8gBkBjxFxjmEmVu8dfOLhWtiUplv6onN2kvIrMEoHlsSJXRyXbljdyb0R7x9uFw7TNUzNwTz7w9aOR_-Gbrt1h2dRJk_lRgtal_OMTsWSh1rgGO2lCaOubrhqjn/s1600/SR1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_Te10AtCKoNsMOjtg8gBkBjxFxjmEmVu8dfOLhWtiUplv6onN2kvIrMEoHlsSJXRyXbljdyb0R7x9uFw7TNUzNwTz7w9aOR_-Gbrt1h2dRJk_lRgtal_OMTsWSh1rgGO2lCaOubrhqjn/s320/SR1.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What makes this new version of the Stingray "Special?" </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The folks at Music Man took their classic bass to the next level by tweaking a few things that essentially equate to working out the bugs of the design. Here are a few of the new standout features:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i> - Roasted maple neck</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i> - Stainless steel frets</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i> - Rounded body sides</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i> - Better balance via lighter weight body & parts</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i> - Newly designed 18v preamp</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Each of those changes combine to make one heck of a great instrument! </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijnnNdDeX27H9AStpw_3NcPke5qQVXfGYEqLz_Ubmsw8R9vpQyWOvGdnryy0KzH1bJTCgIxhZfo8hlGKwrvsWD6YGubUyP8KCnwLjAM7HbCeEAcSFfyAUb67fRIJeJtat-KWzIc9J0S5YC/s1600/MMSRFt.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijnnNdDeX27H9AStpw_3NcPke5qQVXfGYEqLz_Ubmsw8R9vpQyWOvGdnryy0KzH1bJTCgIxhZfo8hlGKwrvsWD6YGubUyP8KCnwLjAM7HbCeEAcSFfyAUb67fRIJeJtat-KWzIc9J0S5YC/s320/MMSRFt.jpeg" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These changes are more about improvements to the model, rather than being a remodel. Put another way, if you were to close your eyes and have someone had you the older model to play, then the new model, you wouldn't notice a difference. However, you would certainly notice that the new one is lighter, with little to no neck-dive, and more control over its tone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Tone:</i></b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now we are getting down to the nitty gritty, best part of this bass. One of the downsides to the older model is the treble harshness where no matter how I would tweak the control knobs, I was always fighting that characteristic. The Special addresses this problem with a newly designed 2-battery, 18v preamp. The amount of control over the tone using this new preamp is a huge leap forward. While the instruments default is the classic Stingray tone, the harshness is now controllable, and easily so. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Combine the new preamp with the two humbucker model StingRay and you have a bass easily capable of tackling any genre you can think of. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Normally, I don't care for active basses as I find the tones to be cold compared to passive versions. Surprisingly this new 18v StingRay captures the note qualities of passive basses, with the advantage of being an active bass-- primarily the dead-quiet sound when not playing. The tones on this new Special are sweet and warm, with a bloom to sustained notes; I was completely won over by an active bass-- something I never thought possible. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Together with all the other improvements, this new Special model is sure to be a hit with Music Man fans.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Fit & finish:</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Finish quality is fantastic. The look of the roasted maple complements the deep body finish, and the feel of the neck is smooth and silky. One note to consider when playing the maple fingerboard model, is the contrast between the dark colored neck and black position markers; the black side dots are difficult to see on a dark stage. On models with the rosewood fingerboard, the white side dots are nicely contrasted on the dark rosewood sides. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ97AvYU8W0WSleL4uuBX2X-c7z_SshTUdpIA5Wm8weSEXIniUVdOHpOKaJ2gR6eFPuIQG6pxoWGO5A4VhrZKUWfse9tWI9KBKcBrkiEqVWe51p7WAJxt1v34KIk9NyzYWR8X7bRTDAZnc/s1600/NeckPocket.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="988" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ97AvYU8W0WSleL4uuBX2X-c7z_SshTUdpIA5Wm8weSEXIniUVdOHpOKaJ2gR6eFPuIQG6pxoWGO5A4VhrZKUWfse9tWI9KBKcBrkiEqVWe51p7WAJxt1v34KIk9NyzYWR8X7bRTDAZnc/s320/NeckPocket.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Overall, the quality of this bass can honestly be compared with any boutique maker. However, as with any instrument where human hands are involved in its creation, this particular example did have one "flaw" which bugged me, but had zero negative effect on the tone/function of the bass-- a slightly over shaped neck pocket. Again, these things happen with all builders to one degree or another.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Because my intention was to keep the bass, I decided the minor flaw was not enough to send it back. The rosewood fingerboard was beautiful, and playing the thing was a joy. On stage, its light weight was <i>very</i> welcome, as my previous StingRay would cause me to keep fighting with my strap to distribute the pain in my neck & shoulder. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Buying tips:</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Any time I think about buying an instrument, my preference is to try it out before buying. Of course that's not always possible and thankfully we have the internet to fill the gap. Price is also a concern. In my state a 10% sales tax adds quite a bit to the price of the instrument <i>(never mind my displeasure with the way my tax dollars are spent...)</i> so buying online becomes even more attractive through dealers who don't charge sales tax. Thankfully, I purchased my StingRay from an online shop which has a 45-day return policy; a benefit I previously discounted as a marketing ploy. </span><br />
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<i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><b>If it was such a great bass, why didn't I keep it?</b></i><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">During that 45-day trial period I was still in the process of <a href="https://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2018/10/thinning-herd-but-why.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">thinning the herd</span></a>, and trying to envision what my ideal, core collection looks like. Since the very beginning of my musical journey some 35-years ago, there was one particular instrument that captured my imagination and became my "dream bass." Assuming that I would never be able to afford one of my own, I never gave it much serious thought-- until now. Searching the internet I discovered two shops that had several versions of my <i>dream bass</i> in stock-- AND at an attainable price! So my decision whether or not to keep the StingRay Special can best be described with this analogy: <i>"Do I want my primary instrument to be a luxurious, top of the line Lincoln Town Car </i>(i.e. the StingRay Special),<i> or a 1968 Dodge Charger...?"</i> Wow-- how blessed I am to have that choice!! If you are curious what new bass I could possibly equate to an old Dodge... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhho-O0bbjoakFCceyHDnc7AIa3Ip7IzFTtK5-khDkhse1wDJtj18LF3mi_5BT_VYEsZdj4zXNe_266W522u7CN1a1gYSbmmJ0UhjXbPcIwth2Fz1axLR1hEBLz3vkwPxwBYcS52bHajKMf/s1600/charger.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="623" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhho-O0bbjoakFCceyHDnc7AIa3Ip7IzFTtK5-khDkhse1wDJtj18LF3mi_5BT_VYEsZdj4zXNe_266W522u7CN1a1gYSbmmJ0UhjXbPcIwth2Fz1axLR1hEBLz3vkwPxwBYcS52bHajKMf/s320/charger.png" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>... Stay tuned & in tune!</b></i></span><br />
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Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-55658380195786207712018-10-10T10:30:00.005-07:002018-10-10T10:32:47.609-07:00Review: Music Man Caprice & Cutlass Basses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdmBn9ewGUxSFqEuoj40X64IA3AgYg2roqfr2Bsd4-bJ8zQNmDnz05taIJcBAflbRJI3fe_zdRNxinbNTI7Aj3iJuiW0_p79BI9I7CCQzZ3TnV_FiuNaR8pEx7mKf0sUTgWssruY2_-yU/s1600/Cutlass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdmBn9ewGUxSFqEuoj40X64IA3AgYg2roqfr2Bsd4-bJ8zQNmDnz05taIJcBAflbRJI3fe_zdRNxinbNTI7Aj3iJuiW0_p79BI9I7CCQzZ3TnV_FiuNaR8pEx7mKf0sUTgWssruY2_-yU/s320/Cutlass.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fender's Precision Bass is a well-loved platform that has seen many different modifications over the years. Various interpretations have also been successful, from nearly every company that builds bass guitars. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ernie Ball Music Man is the latest, but perhaps the most interesting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Music Man basses are known for active preamps, and its instruments are highly regarded. The 2016 Cutlass and Caprice are Music Man's first venture into passive basses which is a very odd thing for fans of Music Man. Many people have embraced the new addition, while expectedly the die-hard "traditionalists" have given the new line a cold shoulder. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Luckily I had the good fortune to spend a few weeks with each of the two basses, which also began a new chapter in my bass-playing life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">- Cutlass vs Precision</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As a huge fan of Fender's Precision Bass, I was eager to do an A/B with the Cutlass. Long story short, the Cutlass is a somewhat more refined classic bass, with it's own flavor of Precision tone. However, it is important to note:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: red;">**</span></b>The Caprice is <b><span style="color: red;">NOT</span></b> a Fender bass<b><span style="color: red;">**</span></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZEow9bZtxg7Jw8E7vYAVWZgRdnCe-cb6dTsYZLoLg0Cxjh5WKUPAOK7ysEHHUcqDAgK-rtns0pzqcbbtzo5eaXd7joFH19Aom8G9vErAjdM65kzja09loq9CxThvDcu1fEz6ixytbwRo/s1600/CutlassMesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZEow9bZtxg7Jw8E7vYAVWZgRdnCe-cb6dTsYZLoLg0Cxjh5WKUPAOK7ysEHHUcqDAgK-rtns0pzqcbbtzo5eaXd7joFH19Aom8G9vErAjdM65kzja09loq9CxThvDcu1fEz6ixytbwRo/s320/CutlassMesa.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Visuals aside, it has it's own sound. Meaning, if you want that classic Fender Precision tone, buy a Fender Precision-- the company offers so many versions that you are sure to find one you like and can afford. What the Caprice excels at is offering a classic-type bass that's more comfortable and unique. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tones from the Cutlass are rounder, and slightly darker than a Precision bass. My baseline when comparing instruments is the Fender Precision, so when playing the Cutlass through my Mesa Subway 800, I kept wanting to turn the tone knob up-- but it was already maxed. If these basses were whisky, the Precision would be freshly brewed, where the Cutlass would be aged 25 years. The Cutlass sounds familiar, but it's smoother and lacks the clanky-mids of the age-old Precision; this could be a good thing... could be a bad thing. Personally, I like the Precision and it's ability to dial back via the tone knob.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Feel, Fit & Finish:</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Everything about the Music Man feels tight, and solid, while the finish is flawless. It's neck feels comfortable with rolled edges, the frets are perfectly finished and plays as effortlessly as anything from small boutique builders. The bridge is a little different from the standard version but you would probably have to look twice to catch it. The body is VERY comfortable, with nicely rounded sides all around, and the weight is right about 9-lbs; enough to <i>mostly</i> offset neck dive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>The Caprice Twist:</u></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMI0nasvhfRuS8PROVGtpZE1elbC6L235G2jGGuhxA3MBsBOu5sMKTryVYNwSqpMangCguCgrffxCtce4MdXRBEt5X9pboKHdTIpb7M3CYBGTZCFj-ZMFx5s8TY1Bjtgkjo6tUtoOmlF57/s1600/Caprice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="606" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMI0nasvhfRuS8PROVGtpZE1elbC6L235G2jGGuhxA3MBsBOu5sMKTryVYNwSqpMangCguCgrffxCtce4MdXRBEt5X9pboKHdTIpb7M3CYBGTZCFj-ZMFx5s8TY1Bjtgkjo6tUtoOmlF57/s320/Caprice.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Along side the single pickup Cutlass, the dual, P/J pickup Caprice adds those midrange tones lost on the Cutlass though its bridge pickup. The particular example only weighed about 8.5-lbs, but had significant neck dive. Everything else about the instrument was fantastic. The Caprice also offers a slightly offset body, with a narrower sized neck. If I had to choose between the two, that Caprice would be the one-- hands down. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Cost & The Recent Price Increase:</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Early this year and following suit with most of its California based competitors,</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Music Man increased it's prices</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Perhaps the increase can be attributed to the cost of doing business in California these days? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Comparatively, Fender basses increased about $500 more than they were last year as well; American Standards were about $1k, while the 2017 "Professional" models are approx $1,500. G&L had a somewhat modest price bump in 2016/17. Kiesel prices have slowly risen over the last few years as well. Rickenbacker has been consistently around $2K for some time now, and Taylor guitars have seen a consistent price increase over the last several years also. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><br /></span></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXzWFvAv82q5d9P6piowN5Osc4Yofu0b9tadinxHkSrd9N0MKPWufAycqlPlSQWDIY-nT41qQ9TSO4C6p8ivYPNIH5IGYt2eZTFKMt_7t1YclKgQQK2PMPJ2np5E_AXe-3PAmQhbGiX0_F/s1600/CutlassCase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="717" data-original-width="1600" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXzWFvAv82q5d9P6piowN5Osc4Yofu0b9tadinxHkSrd9N0MKPWufAycqlPlSQWDIY-nT41qQ9TSO4C6p8ivYPNIH5IGYt2eZTFKMt_7t1YclKgQQK2PMPJ2np5E_AXe-3PAmQhbGiX0_F/s320/CutlassCase.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Prior to the price increase early this year, the Cutlass was going for around $1,600. Now these are listed for $2200! </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When compared to Fender's offering, the increase puts a lot of pressure on the Cutlass to be a better instrument.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Is It Worth It?</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If I didn't already have a small collection of basses and was looking for a primary go-to instrument-- yes. This bass is worth that kind of investment. However, having multiple quality instruments makes it more difficult to justify the expense; is it that much better than those I already have? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>2018's "Special" Introduction:</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While I was exploring these new Music Man basses, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I began to reconsider my small collection of mostly P-type basses. <i>"Why have so many of the same type... especially while there are so many other equally enjoyable instruments?" </i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiOfXQuA7E5Wl8SufUKTRPbj7qvwhuZnbcoo2n9TKgS-r_RTxT-8-TJZUILPZaB86THOxdg1wPeLVYaHiicw1L0wprTk17_Eul0xNg63EmVhdr1lSBJe6kWKk2zzVRD9P6CSglCgH8vjMY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-09-24+at+2.34.29+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="556" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiOfXQuA7E5Wl8SufUKTRPbj7qvwhuZnbcoo2n9TKgS-r_RTxT-8-TJZUILPZaB86THOxdg1wPeLVYaHiicw1L0wprTk17_Eul0xNg63EmVhdr1lSBJe6kWKk2zzVRD9P6CSglCgH8vjMY/s320/Screen+Shot+2018-09-24+at+2.34.29+PM.png" width="313" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As I was exploring that question, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">something </span><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Special</i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> was begging to arrive in our local music stores-- the StingRay Special. AND the new Special is priced within a few dollars of the Cutlass & Caprice! Test driving one for myself completely changed my perspective! But more on that later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Not only do these basses have to compete with Fender's lower priced alternatives, but now the new passive basses must compete within the Music Man family; <i>"why buy a Caprice when you can get a Stingray Special HH for the same price?!"</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Only time will tell what happens to the new passive line at Music Man. These are fantastic instruments regardless of price. However, with the newly redesigned StingRay Special hitting the streets, a whole new world of possibilities has opened up; an example of which I will review here very, very soon...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>...Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-9667119826140817962018-10-01T18:46:00.000-07:002018-10-01T18:46:08.540-07:00Thinning The Herd. But Why?<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's a term many use to describe a major change in their collection of instruments. But what causes people to take an otherwise great collection and totally change things up? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In my case, the reasoning is two-fold: <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCskCyFpXDOs7vr64UAl43UoX6NrAw-wP3CN7enlCoBrkjEVH9zAMX8g6dCYFIRczKA1ijgodCJbgbpbYZ0CLVqkq4QK6wg5gSdRt5mgLpqRk1EWgKeyhReh7SWqK4GIGdy7_HfRjCjII/s1600/wadofbasses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1427" data-original-width="1600" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCskCyFpXDOs7vr64UAl43UoX6NrAw-wP3CN7enlCoBrkjEVH9zAMX8g6dCYFIRczKA1ijgodCJbgbpbYZ0CLVqkq4QK6wg5gSdRt5mgLpqRk1EWgKeyhReh7SWqK4GIGdy7_HfRjCjII/s320/wadofbasses.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Different, but the same</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>First</b></i>, I was beginning to feel overwhelmed trying to keep each of my many basses in top working order; bass strings are expensive, especially when multiplied over a collection. Then I asked myself why so many of the same kind of bass? It's nice having a bunch of P-basses, but I really only play one or two while the others simply serve as wall art.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Second</i></b>, While I had was exploring basses other than Fender, Music Man released their updated version of the venerable StingRay Bass; the "StingRay Special". So the logical question becomes, "why not sell those which I don't play often, to fund a new StingRay Special?" That line of thinking resulted in a total re-evaluation of my collection, and the selling off of any redundancy. Not only did I have enough money to fund the new Ray, but also to finally buy my dream bass... but that's a story for a different post...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_94uX9FswRP0sEhzuTLFCLCw93NvmTr2T_ij679YgLSRSSSIHex2VHYizRrTFx0XTwok6acxRQxlOymurwmNUSaaBU9fqPKsweomBgaEBQSdAlkZ4xdiDMMaMEHJv9IUacm4BteEepBLk/s1600/IMG_8189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_94uX9FswRP0sEhzuTLFCLCw93NvmTr2T_ij679YgLSRSSSIHex2VHYizRrTFx0XTwok6acxRQxlOymurwmNUSaaBU9fqPKsweomBgaEBQSdAlkZ4xdiDMMaMEHJv9IUacm4BteEepBLk/s320/IMG_8189.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Redundancy</u></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While there's nothing wrong with having half a dozen versions of the same bass, I like to keep things simple. For me, if something is not being used, why keep it around? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With simplification in mind, I selected two of my favorite P-basses; a Steve Harris signature which has a maple neck & maple body, and a "parts" P-bass that features an alder body & rosewood fingerboard. All others were sold, with the exception of two sentimental favorites-- both of which see a lot of use.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Trying something new</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Firmly anchored in the world of passive Fender tones, I wanted to try something different. The second bass I ever bought was a standard Music Man Stingray-- an active bass. Having lived with the instrument for many years, it didn't get played much as the tone was pretty harsh, but I really loved the look and feel of the neck. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBh_FlKO23NxeDaI1WtqIg_gUngs9xtzE_gmeA69fRG50BXjaFBPx3xllqQq32Y0Rx8XAUMOc1kXDAjTpGSrrTy6J5wSIBzC0UfFrQWSEaZg6ltQVBsFbtQt_oH6JzoYoa-2NuLCPCx07/s1600/image.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="991" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBh_FlKO23NxeDaI1WtqIg_gUngs9xtzE_gmeA69fRG50BXjaFBPx3xllqQq32Y0Rx8XAUMOc1kXDAjTpGSrrTy6J5wSIBzC0UfFrQWSEaZg6ltQVBsFbtQt_oH6JzoYoa-2NuLCPCx07/s320/image.png" width="199" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thankfully, as I was reevaluating my collection, the newly revised Stingray "Special" was beginning to hit the stores. Excited by the possibilities of a different style of bass <i>(active vs passive)</i>, the new Stingray really grabbed my attention. Exploring options beyond my old passive bass perspective was inspiring! It fueled a new excitement for getting back in the shed to practice, while exploring the new tones and enjoying the noise-free pickups; something that always bugged me with the old basses. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Change in perspective</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Changing things around can be fun and inspirational. If something is always done with the same tool, in the same way, day after day... it's easy to become bored and disillusioned. Changing your perspective can be achieved in may different ways-- either with a different instrument, a different location, a different method of playing (i.e. pick vs. finger style), etc. Changing your perspective can inject new life into an old routine. Simplifying and diversifying the basses on hand by thinning the herd is another great way of changing your perspective-- <i>and having fun!</i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSeB7cVyrpOOBGAndLWt6S4t-exa7hCCHoO5MnbrMRe6G95ft5F6QabfVkSzNOPjYB91JoFWOgOylCV2ThaAna-ZBQwGFzS-GE129MhtxV-ZvOv5NYRzfIf9v-OzFs9z_JR01DErmoASx/s1600/me2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="539" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSeB7cVyrpOOBGAndLWt6S4t-exa7hCCHoO5MnbrMRe6G95ft5F6QabfVkSzNOPjYB91JoFWOgOylCV2ThaAna-ZBQwGFzS-GE129MhtxV-ZvOv5NYRzfIf9v-OzFs9z_JR01DErmoASx/s200/me2015.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>If you're not having fun, <br />you're doing it wrong!</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Naturally, <i>thinning the herd </i>can be a means of simply generating income, but it can also be a way to bring fun back into your bass playing adventure. Having fewer basses makes a collection easier to maintain, while diversifying a collection provides more tonal options and stimulates inspiration. Always remember that the goal of this adventure we are on is not only to make music and a joyous noise, but to have fun along the way. Thinning the herd is simply one part of the larger adventure. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>...Stay tuned, and in tune!</i></b></span></div>
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Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-47782068109985433542018-09-24T11:49:00.001-07:002019-12-27T11:09:28.851-08:00Review: Steve Harris Signature Precision Bass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Longtime readers of the blog know that I am a huge fan of the Fender Precision bass. Fender, G&L, Lull, Music Man, you name it-- if it's a P-bass, you already have my attention! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpoYRN3a4LvCHHfFHnXtnfXcNtKZft5mYMtWEXGM92RmhaiKzXsMrZbKepf5sljIuMyEASQGbwxcamAfIb7Kygqr74Zt5ugNciPCI-4tSnnXyN8JCLY9Fc22kF3cetsLjMR-YVH7hOkos/s1600/stevie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="819" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpoYRN3a4LvCHHfFHnXtnfXcNtKZft5mYMtWEXGM92RmhaiKzXsMrZbKepf5sljIuMyEASQGbwxcamAfIb7Kygqr74Zt5ugNciPCI-4tSnnXyN8JCLY9Fc22kF3cetsLjMR-YVH7hOkos/s400/stevie.jpg" width="207" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">However, I've never been a big fan of signature basses; I can appreciate them for what they are, but none appeal enough to me to spend the money one one-- until this one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are two bassists that really grabbed me from early on: Geddy Lee, and Steve Harris. Seeing Geddy playing his Rickenbacker on, "Exit... Stage Left" was what inspired me to play guitar. Steve Harris was the stand out sound to me when I first listened to Iron Maiden after buying "Maiden Japan" at our local MusicPlus record store. Rush and Maiden were huge influences in my musical life. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjepS7-XGR5LPLqCGpC6x8MIebaA8zhxQS8_NnOg_klUep8b01OL-T0QSr_GRKU-YPN-dW2cXWSPTGKPvaYuCzk82nipPxy5V5CQIZOd6L0P5039TI-89DCz17A89pKJ2YisBkGuwGVYH_v/s1600/ironmaiden_maidenjapan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjepS7-XGR5LPLqCGpC6x8MIebaA8zhxQS8_NnOg_klUep8b01OL-T0QSr_GRKU-YPN-dW2cXWSPTGKPvaYuCzk82nipPxy5V5CQIZOd6L0P5039TI-89DCz17A89pKJ2YisBkGuwGVYH_v/s200/ironmaiden_maidenjapan.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When evaluating my collection</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> recently and deciding which basses to sell, which to keep, the less expensive Steve Harris Precision survived where other, much more expensive basses did not. How did that happen? While some of the reasons are personal preferences, there are some objective points as well:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Overview:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fender released this new version of Steve's signature in early 2015. What makes this version different than the others is the white color (vs. blue), the pinstriping with West Ham football club sticker, Seymour Duncan pickup, and Fender's BadAssII bridge. Detailed spec</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">'s are available on Fender's</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> <a href="https://shop.fender.com/en-US/electric-basses/precision-bass/steve-harris-precision-bass/0141032305.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">website</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">, so no need to repeat those here. What appealed most to me was the nod to it's 70's roots with the big headstock, bold lettering, and the fatter neck. The other details are nice too-- especially for the price. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Fit & Finish:</u></b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqglmc3NEFiHoUvDN5xLhAReBQcIXqtrGWzMP_hGyzzNmVd4SRdQpr7iHo9iJTDCNl1UOIxCtSbpyO-A1QFqBPoYDXd3VfFxTTNH9YvSWq86GqpNlrxblVzlRI8yFeO-WIeF6CA0GovatB/s1600/NeckJoint.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1178" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqglmc3NEFiHoUvDN5xLhAReBQcIXqtrGWzMP_hGyzzNmVd4SRdQpr7iHo9iJTDCNl1UOIxCtSbpyO-A1QFqBPoYDXd3VfFxTTNH9YvSWq86GqpNlrxblVzlRI8yFeO-WIeF6CA0GovatB/s320/NeckJoint.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neck pocket: Left, Steve Harris/ Right, American Standard</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Compared to my Fender American Standard Precision, the made in Mexico Harris model actually has some advantages. The Harris neck pocket is nearly air-tight compared to the significant gap on the US version. Weight on the Harris model is quite a bit heavier, which is attributable to the different body woods: maple body on the Harris, and alder on the US. Action was fantastic on the Harris, while I had to spend a few hours dialing in the US model. Fretwoork was great on the Harris, but slightly better on the US with the fret ends being more rounded on the US. This November will mark 1-year living with the bass, and I haven't had to adjust a thing on it-- just plug & play!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Feel & Sound:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Even though I'm a huge fan of Steve Harris and Iron Maiden, I'm not interested in replicating Steve's sound. The bass is supposed to come strung with rounds, with a set of flats in the case. Mine was missing the flats, but I didn't pursue the issue with the seller-- why make a fuss about something I will never use? As you might guess, the bass sounds like what it is; a big, aggressive Fender P. However, roll off the volume just a bit and you can get all the classic tones your heart desires. Comparing the Duncan pickup with the MFD in my G&L SB-1, I discovered the two sound very similar. That just made my SB-1 redundant!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIFxJllxf8HOFbudqN7QG7rP8et8YxTYQOvNi5VAUC5KT1s6lNUYpyzEFXupLVU64R21McuLM38bprykZWHmsIwz2AuUqXS-oxjQKdP_hiUbwrOJuPR_8lq5FZRBF5ts7tsbPfUVMfa3-/s1600/Headstocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIFxJllxf8HOFbudqN7QG7rP8et8YxTYQOvNi5VAUC5KT1s6lNUYpyzEFXupLVU64R21McuLM38bprykZWHmsIwz2AuUqXS-oxjQKdP_hiUbwrOJuPR_8lq5FZRBF5ts7tsbPfUVMfa3-/s320/Headstocks.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A lot of press and advertisement call the neck a "U" shape. How Fender comes up with that stuff is beyond me. It is not a large neck on it's own; compared to the typical Fender bass, this neck is better thought of as a chunky "C" shape. There is a little more depth front to back, hence calling it chunky. Make no mistake, this is not a large neck-- it's simply larger than the modern Fender necks. Should someone only have experience with a skinny-necked Ibanez, then pick up this bass... perhaps that person would be surprised by the size difference. Otherwise, the neck is nicely rounded and feels really comfortable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The weight is about 11 pounds, but using a wide padded strap really zeros out the feel of having such a large instrument. Again, part of the appeal of this bass is it's nod to the 1970s, a time when the P-bass was considered a "man's bass." Fender nails it with this one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Keeper?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When evaluating my collection and deciding which basses to keep/sell, one of the reasons the Steve Harris model survived the purge is that big, bold, beautiful headstock! That was the style I grew up with and when someone mentions <i>"Fender Bass"</i> the 70s style is the image that comes to mind; it's what it should look like. Then consider the Harris fit & finish, bridge, pickup, neck feel, sound... it represents the quintessential Fender Precision bass.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8-YULkHTtS6u2vwrFSiP85qVy9BenNAyO8JMtPO8XtUx06_zmJHHLGaIr9U6k3ujQj5OBIwVk2Fhq0fV8u0T-ATw-5KIU_42RwKXyuyWURs2fqWOojaHWkOsrOKPqqHHEaeIHmNU4J2Os/s1600/WestHam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8-YULkHTtS6u2vwrFSiP85qVy9BenNAyO8JMtPO8XtUx06_zmJHHLGaIr9U6k3ujQj5OBIwVk2Fhq0fV8u0T-ATw-5KIU_42RwKXyuyWURs2fqWOojaHWkOsrOKPqqHHEaeIHmNU4J2Os/s320/WestHam.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Richly colored decal & stripes are <i>under</i> the clearcoat</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ultimately, I chose it over the G&L LB-100, SB-1, Fender American Standard, </span><i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">AND</i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> the new Music Man Cutlass Bass. The fact this one is a Steve Harris signature model is just a bonus; the pinstriping & castle/hammers sticker simply make it more fun to look at than the typical bass. It should be mentioned that those finish details are actually part of the bass-- under the clearcoat so there is no option to remove them. At the same time, for those who like the unique finish details, being under the clearcoat makes it even more resistant to wear. For those who don't follow football and have no idea who or what Wes Ham United is, the decal looks great on its own-- again, a fun detail.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If the Steve Harris P-bass looks like your kind of instrument, either as a collector item for Maiden fans, or simply as a fun solid bass guitar, you might want to consider buying one sooner than later. Many of the signature basses have specific production time frames as did the previous Harris models, and considering that this version has been on the market for several years, it's likely nearing the end of its production. These are great instruments and are a great value within the Fender catalog.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you aren't a fan of Fender basses, perhaps you would like Music Man's take on the Precision and P/J platform; I've got a review of both coming soon-- till then...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>...Stay tuned & in tune!</b></i></span>
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Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-63083839107563862142018-09-11T18:30:00.000-07:002018-09-11T18:30:31.396-07:00Quick Tips: How To Sell My Bass? <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Most of us eventually decide to sell a bass either to upgrade to a better one, or to thin a herd that became a collection now requiring its own room in the house(!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once the decision is made to sell, you have a lot of options; sell online, to a friend, or even a music store-- just to name a few. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><b>Online:</b></u></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9KF5PXA8jdH_O9uY6rksxlzyg9UHK7HjbereLOB9FLFx_IiXz9OwkKnSAjMj8cDdFgpVuyjLeH52FWSGm2suktBdcmRchKmlJk4FxjTB3WcxKT3jqgVAEsTWq_OvXzC33MtgJnPUBLjnH/s1600/practice.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1225" data-original-width="1600" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9KF5PXA8jdH_O9uY6rksxlzyg9UHK7HjbereLOB9FLFx_IiXz9OwkKnSAjMj8cDdFgpVuyjLeH52FWSGm2suktBdcmRchKmlJk4FxjTB3WcxKT3jqgVAEsTWq_OvXzC33MtgJnPUBLjnH/s320/practice.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Popular places include eBay, Reverb, or your favorite instrument/maker specific forums. Be ready to pay additional fees for selling via eBay or Reverb. Shipping charges have to be factored into the sale price as well. In this case, photos are your friend. Don't be stingy with the photos, and include enough that detail the condition so the new buyer knows exactly what to expect. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">DO NOT attempt to hide flaws, or something that might raise concern. Doing so will not slip a flaw past someone -- a lot of folks expect perfection, so being up front about the life your instrument has lived will weed out those who will likely return it to you. Be honest, take pride in your time as the instruments custodian, and be willing to have it return if need be.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><b>Selling locally:</b></u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Either to a friend or through CraigsList will save you having to pay fees or shipping. However, there is an old, wise maxim that teaches selling anything to a friend is never a good idea. Again, photos are a great way to provide a visual description of the instruments condition and will flush out some of those CraigsList Flakes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">CraigsList <i>(LetGo, OfferUp, etc.)</i> exposes you to a whole list of unsavory characters along with a few actual prospective buyers. The frustration with using CraigsList may be worth the effort to find the right buyer, just be sure to set specific boundaries for prospective buyers and don't let yourself become a sheep among wolves. A few basics:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0thFSZAOrDXPteV3uj3nqXQo5YlmMvf0leTJNbUZhKcdFmGSlwLRZPzeMxJSlKmBU7qOARnR7FVPw0LeSZ9bXPTFOBCcLW1AULl_jTFF2c9B-QprIN8Pu3N6wOJqnTCkbkVCn05UWmzd/s1600/spideySense.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="228" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0thFSZAOrDXPteV3uj3nqXQo5YlmMvf0leTJNbUZhKcdFmGSlwLRZPzeMxJSlKmBU7qOARnR7FVPw0LeSZ9bXPTFOBCcLW1AULl_jTFF2c9B-QprIN8Pu3N6wOJqnTCkbkVCn05UWmzd/s320/spideySense.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Don't hesitate to turn away a buyer that makes your Spidey Sense tingle</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Arrange to meet at a public location of <u><i>your</i></u> choosing, but NEVER at your house.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Be clear on the type of payment you will accept, and only meet when you agree on a specific price</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Take a friend with you; there is safety in numbers</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">- Always be aware of your surrounding, handling cash as discreetly as possible</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><b>Selling to a store:</b></u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don't expect to get full price; it is buying from you in order to make a profit selling to someone else. Selling to a shop is convenient and frees you of having to sift through all the flakes and tire-kickers to find the right buyer. The downside is that most places will give you about 60% of what they will sell it for. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iY9gSo5Ut-pP_MjIV2Z04qU7fjqYd1f2wytyjakXvC6MjQEZDv6TX3QqIWSPWIzwdXKIa2MtUbB_tBzkSTFd1Amj4gjYfQ_1mOLbetpN2Pse06yAMYBggRNm97JCA-uHqmf7F5chMZek/s1600/GuitarStore.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="1400" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iY9gSo5Ut-pP_MjIV2Z04qU7fjqYd1f2wytyjakXvC6MjQEZDv6TX3QqIWSPWIzwdXKIa2MtUbB_tBzkSTFd1Amj4gjYfQ_1mOLbetpN2Pse06yAMYBggRNm97JCA-uHqmf7F5chMZek/s320/GuitarStore.jpeg" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do your homework before selling to a shop; check various online retailers yourself to get an idea what your shop will sell it for. Stepping into the shop with a clear, realistic expectation will make the process go much smoother for both you and the shop employee; doing so may also result in receiving a little more for your item in appreciation for your pleasant disposition. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Always try to keep things in the proper perspective; you are selling a musical instrument, and the process more often than not will require a good deal of patience. Thinking of the process as an adventure will position your mindset in a way that elevates much of the stress associated with selling an instrument. Have fun and look forward to meeting the next person who will be caring for your beloved instrument~</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Stay tuned, and in tune!</i></b></span><br />
<br />Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-81343083637069937122018-08-16T10:21:00.000-07:002018-08-16T10:34:28.927-07:002018 Updates!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Wow-- seems like my last post was just a couple of weeks ago, but it's been much longer than that. The old saying, "Time flies when you're having fun..." has proved accurate-- especially when one is a home owner(!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Catching up:</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYRS6TIK_1M9ykVNIhZX7Z8Cyo-8MKfa0T8iCVEoZt4AqvUAy7C3e3A07vsQnIxjhAFlQfGovUV_3aZWvEFz3TcB10aGsmu1zCx2imt3LAeDR3vHgH2XQw96JbKpQgRcR_VOrPv-OYeRXF/s1600/2_JB5deer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYRS6TIK_1M9ykVNIhZX7Z8Cyo-8MKfa0T8iCVEoZt4AqvUAy7C3e3A07vsQnIxjhAFlQfGovUV_3aZWvEFz3TcB10aGsmu1zCx2imt3LAeDR3vHgH2XQw96JbKpQgRcR_VOrPv-OYeRXF/s320/2_JB5deer.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To start off the new year, I sold the 5-string G&L JB-- you know, the one with the teal metal flake finish. As much as I tried I could not overcome the distraction of that low B string. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Being a visual learner, I have catalogs of fretboard position "shapes" in my head, and adding the extra string kept tripping me up-- my finger memory kept going to the <i>B</i> thinking it was the <i>E.</i> Beyond that, I very rarely needed one of the five extra notes that additional string provides. The bass ended up being a 50th birthday gift for a local player, so everything worked out great!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Busted!</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A short time after selling the JB5, my Plum Crazy G&L LB-100 ended up on the disabled list with a busted truss rod(!) In all my years of playing I'd never had a trussrod break; have heard it happen to others, but never personally experienced it. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgirvVWdWR2CWbiIMweyd3_857NskQUcWMuoVNUSuerQI84uojOufAyqeaQTqB65l25lhULEcFqIwI9X__gYPYPd_XXFXSNqKFP5BzqPpoFchOC0V8DLqeHgQBF25D26xCxNecIZPmv17PP/s1600/broke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgirvVWdWR2CWbiIMweyd3_857NskQUcWMuoVNUSuerQI84uojOufAyqeaQTqB65l25lhULEcFqIwI9X__gYPYPd_XXFXSNqKFP5BzqPpoFchOC0V8DLqeHgQBF25D26xCxNecIZPmv17PP/s320/broke.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While initially upset, I soon recalled that these instruments for which I tend to be sentimental, are in fact tools and tools occasionally fail. With a short phone call, my dealer gave me with the customer service contact info, and in a very short time the kind folks at G&L got back with me to arrange for a repair. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The total down-time was only about five weeks. G&L's repair work and customer service was top notch! Looking back on it, the experience has just amplified my appreciation for the company and its products.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Good News!</u></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP2bmV6sYM_7cbvUxa1p3qde6CqqtFpXs2l6ib8UtjQam-NrKFbYN1XzgkE-7IYkK1qDzyEFH4yHk7z1xdMHYajLvYaivZirtalaWbZav1VWFpKhIHaAEN2b5ne0Fo_DwsdiMoF0LXvV4x/s1600/image_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1059" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP2bmV6sYM_7cbvUxa1p3qde6CqqtFpXs2l6ib8UtjQam-NrKFbYN1XzgkE-7IYkK1qDzyEFH4yHk7z1xdMHYajLvYaivZirtalaWbZav1VWFpKhIHaAEN2b5ne0Fo_DwsdiMoF0LXvV4x/s320/image_01.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sometimes instruments get sold/traded to make room for something new. Part of the fun of getting a new bass is the search, or hunt if you will. In this case, I had been keeping an eye out for a certain Fender Signature bass of a longtime favorite of mine; Steve Harris. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A few years ago Fender released a new Steve Harris signature model, and if history is any indication, the model is likely to be unofficially removed from the catalog after three or four years. Having come across a really good deal at the same, rare moment I had a little money in hand, I enjoyed a New Bass Day. A full review is in the making...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><u>What's to come:</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As Ferris Bueller famously noted, <i>"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." </i>In the months to come, I'll make more effort to catch some of those Bass-Adventure moments and record them here. Here are a few of the things I currently have brewing:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> - New bass test drives</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> - Notes on selling/trading basses in today's market</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> - New Bass Day reviews</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> - Musical notes from the stage</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i> ... and more!</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrKrFmlZo3IlQnAbpde1Qy_VerhEVpwPCx_MVwO_FPUfv9w84rTIX4-IpviEE0-ItYJ1CJe6JHKrPX6Lt-2N6-sCn7Dh2d61zdTS-IRVX-Y0_kUCVBGqIvPJlEq6IxpXhsLVTuYuXpNTRU/s1600/Ferris-Bueller-Ferrari-Modena-Spyder-California-For-Sale-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="296" data-original-width="525" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrKrFmlZo3IlQnAbpde1Qy_VerhEVpwPCx_MVwO_FPUfv9w84rTIX4-IpviEE0-ItYJ1CJe6JHKrPX6Lt-2N6-sCn7Dh2d61zdTS-IRVX-Y0_kUCVBGqIvPJlEq6IxpXhsLVTuYuXpNTRU/s400/Ferris-Bueller-Ferrari-Modena-Spyder-California-For-Sale-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Stay tuned & in tune!</b></i></span><br />
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Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-23174560131888878922017-06-08T11:49:00.008-07:002022-02-21T11:12:40.968-08:00Test Drive: Rickenbacker 4003<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Last month I took a test drive of a major icon in the bass world; the Rickenbacker 4003.</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/a7/f0/e7/a7f0e784d2619738ad182b17a910801e.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="289" data-original-width="400" height="232" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/a7/f0/e7/a7f0e784d2619738ad182b17a910801e.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Geddy Lee & his Rickenbacker; "Exit Stage Left"</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The reason I was so excited to take the Rick for a test spin, is 100% due to seeing Geddy Lee playing his Ric 4001 on the "Exit Stage Left" video-- the very thing that inspired me to play guitar/bass. Knowing nothing about guitars back then, I looked at the Rickenbacker's non-symmetrical headstock on Geddy's bass and thought, "Wow! His guitar is busted and he's still playing the heck out of it!" </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Now, many years later I get to try out the modern version of that classic bass for the first time-- I couldn't wait!</span></span><br /><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/b1/80/ea/b180ea1ba5135f46f872eb8bb8048272.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/b1/80/ea/b180ea1ba5135f46f872eb8bb8048272.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>New Rickenbacker 4003 is a beautiful thing!</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Located in the "Platinum Room" of a national guitar retailer, the salesman climbed to the top of a ladder, freed the bass from a locked hanger, then handed me the black beauty. Finding a uncrowded corner, I admired every aspect of the instrument. </span></span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br />
<u>Fit & Finish:</u><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Its black finish was flawless and all the parts felt stout. However, the tuning posts (<i>where strings are wound)</i> were much smaller than those found on Fender-type basses, though the tuning keys were very similar. Medium-jumbo frets looked properly finished, the rosewood fingerboard was rich in color and the binding/distinctive pearoid inlays looked fantastic! </span><br /></span>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><u><span style="font-family: verdana;">Feel/sound:</span> </u></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/9a/61/18/9a61184ead37b0a3d48bd11ec9e6f437.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/9a/61/18/9a61184ead37b0a3d48bd11ec9e6f437.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Oh my, that string action!</i></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana;">Overall the bass felt somewhat smaller than I imagined it. Its narrow & thin body felt comfortable to play and was relatively lightweight. The neck felt chunky and nicely rounded at the sides, but from front to back was somewhat shallow <i>(not chunky like a baseball bat)</i>. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The only disappointing element was the super high string action, a problem that this particular store is infamous for. Normally, string action is a fairly simple problem to correct on most basses... but not on the Ric due to the bridge design.</span> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/31/88/d1/3188d174979c94b2a1226333acce5f9a.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/31/88/d1/3188d174979c94b2a1226333acce5f9a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A "Platinum Room" setup at a national retailer</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">A good luthier could probably adjust the bass to correct the high action, but at additional cost. On an instrument costing over $1800, located under lock & key in a "Platinum Room" I expect it to at least be within factory specs. Despite its crazy string action, it sounded fantastic-- just what one expects to hear. </span></span> <br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"> P<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">rior to the test drive while on my way to the shop, I was secretly hoping to fall in love with the bass, and fantasized that my wife would happily encourage me to leave the shop as a new Rickenbacker 4003 owner. The bass still hangs on the shop's wall today, waiting for someone with more money and patience than I. A great instrument in every respect (sans poor setup), I hope to add one to my collection someday soon. Until then...</span></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2019/07/gear-review-rickenbacker-4003-68-dodge.html" style="font-family: verdana;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">**UPDATE**</span></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><i><b>...stay tuned & in tune! </b></i></span><br /></span>
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<br /></div>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-47508955433850616872017-04-11T10:45:00.000-07:002017-04-11T10:47:31.796-07:00Talent, or Hard Work?<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just came across this clip from Scott Devine that I had to share with everyone here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Scott is talking about his students that were born with a "talent" for the instrument, and those who had to work harder. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Consider that a person with a talent for music simply means that they pick up on things easier. For those of us <i>less </i>talented<i>,</i> we can achieve the same results-- we just need to work harder to get there. </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1mBbR9Fh1Eg/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1mBbR9Fh1Eg?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Over the last week or so, I have been in the shed working on a favorite RUSH tune, Tom Sawyer. This is the first Geddy Lee tune I have attempted because I thought there was no way on earth I could keep up with my favorite bassist. The crazy thing is, that I am nearly through it-- and yes, it has been a lot of work!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once I finish the song, I will be turning my focus to theory: Chord Tones, Scales and arpeggios. After watching Scott's video something occurred to me; the accomplishments I am most proud of are those which were the most challenging. Therefore, it's off to the wood shed...!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Stay tuned & in tune! </i></b></span><br />
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Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-74970293961409482202017-03-17T11:50:00.000-07:002017-03-21T10:15:35.014-07:00Review: Fender American Standard Precision Bass vs. G&L LB-100, SB1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Gear Review/ Comparison</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yeah, yeah-- I can hear the <a href="https://youtu.be/3RotxvwFFQA" target="_blank">Sheldon Cooper</a>-t</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ypes out there exhaling dismissively and asking, "P-bass?! How simple can a person be?"</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/1d/aa/74/1daa740d2d9007b7ab3da09840c53291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/1d/aa/74/1daa740d2d9007b7ab3da09840c53291.jpg" width="298" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Well this isn't your typical P-Bass review. Today I will compare my Fender American Standard Precision with the latest G&L P-basses: the new<i>(ish)</i> LB-100 and the well documented SB-1, which I reviewed last year in, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2016/08/nbd-ode-to-donald-duck-dunn.html" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">NBD! Ode to Donald "Duck Dunn"</span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was all a matter of timing that presented this unique opportunity-- to buy yet another P-bass: first, the fact that I was not getting along well in my <a href="http://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2016/09/five-stringed-adventure-long-live-hot.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">5-string adventure</span></a> with the JB5 and decided to sell it on for someone else to enjoy. Then came the announcement from Fender that it was replacing the <i>American Standard</i> series with the new <i>Professional</i> series. Being the Christmas season, retailers were willing to sell off their stock of "outdated" Fenders at rock bottom prices to make room for the new series. So I was presented with the opportunity to have an Olympic White, rosewood, tortoise shell USA P-bass shipped to my door via next-day mail(!) Being a sucker for that classic look I placed my order... and here we are!</span></span><br /><br /><b><i>Why compare the Fender with G&L?</i></b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzIaKxZAu6Waz9gkWA-qPtT4Iv8AS2h0IFUlKHqXknPaI_i4s9AF65L1QTkuNyMGuJKGPOPrCt1sbuyUaW22WW_R59BZ35H2rAcj4KRE0H7_i2R1ifY1wMSIKmn2DezoRvv89-nWeC9M7e/s1600/199027_100425606634549_4139536_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzIaKxZAu6Waz9gkWA-qPtT4Iv8AS2h0IFUlKHqXknPaI_i4s9AF65L1QTkuNyMGuJKGPOPrCt1sbuyUaW22WW_R59BZ35H2rAcj4KRE0H7_i2R1ifY1wMSIKmn2DezoRvv89-nWeC9M7e/s320/199027_100425606634549_4139536_n.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Outside the G&L factory in Fullerton CA.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">More than just similarly styled instruments, G&L was created by Leo Fender. "G&L" is short for George & Leo; George Fullerton, and Leo Fender; two men key to the early days of Fender guitars. Additionally, G&L operates out of a facility which Leo built many of his classic Fender guitars. Several of the original machines and practices used in the 1950s are still in use at G&L today. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">G&L Guitars is also the last place Leo worked until his death in 1991. As an interesting side note, <span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/phyllis-fender-full-interview" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Leo's wife, Phyllis</span></a>,</span> is an <a href="http://www.glguitars.com/instruments/USA/customcreations/Phyllis/index.asp" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">h</span></a></span><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.glguitars.com/instruments/USA/customcreations/Phyllis/index.asp" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">onorary chairperson</span></a></span> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">at G&L to help keep Leo's vision alive. So there is a substantial connection with history at G&L guitars, which is partly why many people believe that a G&L is the closest instrument to Leo's originals that are available today. However, don't get the idea that G&L is stuck in the past-- the company strives to improve it's products in keeping with Leo's continuous effort to improve his creations. Another interesting side note is the two factories (Fender and G&L) are located a mere <a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/a6/39/0f/a6390fc0fa148e4aa0d49eb251ee9be6.png" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">20-miles apart</span></a> from each other. </span></span><br /><br /><b><i> The new P-bass:</i></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsODOHNRN-9fBgO8-V4cotpwphJRk-QJu69Fxd97g1n0Qyi9vwDbA8PLVhgBtWIc6pQmGXacoo4u5zOSBjuRyPA7Ez-rIwhByapiVo_Kek6_EhRYjh0qI8wdG-ZXtiov4onogKRnwJlQ-/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-03-16+at+1.55.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsODOHNRN-9fBgO8-V4cotpwphJRk-QJu69Fxd97g1n0Qyi9vwDbA8PLVhgBtWIc6pQmGXacoo4u5zOSBjuRyPA7Ez-rIwhByapiVo_Kek6_EhRYjh0qI8wdG-ZXtiov4onogKRnwJlQ-/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-03-16+at+1.55.12+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First things first; this 2016 American Standard Precision is a fantastic instrument. It sounds exactly like one expects from a P-Bass, and plays smoothly with a nice low action. Its body is lightweight alder, and the rosewood fingerboard has a rich, dark red color. </span><br />
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</span><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/94/77/d3/9477d3956ca67d2ff8acacb3a9a2f4d7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/94/77/d3/9477d3956ca67d2ff8acacb3a9a2f4d7.jpg" width="325" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When playing for the first time, I discovered a rattle when playing open notes. After much trouble shooting, I narrowed the problem down to the A string; it didn't have enough down pressure between the nut and the tuning post. A common problem on newer Fender basses, required a <a href="http://shop.fender.com/en-US/parts/string-guides-nuts/stealth-bass-string-retainer/0078972049.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">small part</span></a> from the Fender catalog designed to resolve the issue. It is a washer that replaces the stock tuning peg washer and includes a string retainer/guide to sharpen the string break between the two points.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Also helpful eliminating rattles is to ensure the strings are wound as far down the peg as possible. Since the stock strings could have been wound another wrap or so further down, I installed a new set of strings. Along with the new string retainer, the problem disappeared. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>The comparison.</i></span> </i></span></b></span></span></span><br />
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</span><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/b3/d5/95/b3d595497ceb10e31ee151f4dc84a3e5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/b3/d5/95/b3d595497ceb10e31ee151f4dc84a3e5.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><u>Fit & Finish:</u></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How does the 2016 Fender American Standard Precision compare to it's G&L P-bass stepbrothers? Let's start with the most obvious; the urethane finishes from each company are flawless. </span> There is however, one huge difference between the two builders in this regard; the number of different available finishes. Fender offered three colors in 2016: black, white, sunburst. The new Professional series added olive green to its total of four colors. G&L on the other hand offer <a href="http://www.glguitars.com/instruments/USA/finishes/index.asp" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">29 different standard colors</span></a>, with an additional 16 "Premier" finishes and seven metal flake finishes. They also offer special, limited edition colors such as with the Detroit Muscle Series, which currently offer eight different colors. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/c8/b3/c4/c8b3c4ac6e495a743bd026f96790ca28.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/c8/b3/c4/c8b3c4ac6e495a743bd026f96790ca28.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fender neck pocket (left & right sides) with slight gaps</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fitment wise, for those who believe the neck pocket should be free of gaps, Fender slips a little compared to G&L. The Fender has a slight gap on either side of the neck. Several repairmen have told me this makes it easier for them to make slight adjustments to the neck over the years. Personally, I don't mind it at all, as I can <i>not</i> discern any difference in resonance or sustain compared to my G&Ls, and it has proven stable during the last three months of playing with our band.</span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/e5/bd/aa/e5bdaae6f502c8a8f1fb299afbe6c8a4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/e5/bd/aa/e5bdaae6f502c8a8f1fb299afbe6c8a4.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">G&L neck pockets-- tight as a drum</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">G&L neck pockets are extremely tight, so much so that you can remove the neck bolts then pick up the instrument by the neck and the body will remain in place. Some believe this results in longer sustain and improves overall tone. Comparing the two though my rig, I don't notice any difference; each have long ringing sustain and each body resonates like crazy...</span><br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/7c/a4/9c/7ca49ce15a30af53bf7e98ac6a4421ab.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/7c/a4/9c/7ca49ce15a30af53bf7e98ac6a4421ab.png" width="320" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fender and G&L approach neck attachment differently as well. Fender uses the traditional method of four-bolts with the stamped neck plate. G&L uses six countersunk bolts, allowing them to ditch the stamped plate. The G&L appeals more to me for a modern bass, but I bought the Fender because I wanted a bass with a slightly more classic feel. While the G&L feels better to me when handling the instrument, Fender's traditional layout does what it's intended to do nicely. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/91/22/4a/91224ac6ea75cd22aab37457e9f8941f.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/91/22/4a/91224ac6ea75cd22aab37457e9f8941f.png" width="400" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Departing slightly from the classic design, Fender has modernized its tuning keys to be smaller and lighter, which potentially allows the instrument to balance better by minimizing neck dive. This particular bass balances perfectly-- so in this case,</span></span> <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">it worked<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> wonderfully. G&L tuners favor the classic designs of yesteryear.</span></span></span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/e9/29/f5/e929f5904089c80f9d809a568672cd14.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/e9/29/f5/e929f5904089c80f9d809a568672cd14.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(L) Fender, (R) G&L</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the front side, the tuners appear pretty similar at first, but</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> look closer and there are slight differences. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/71/61/c1/7161c135ae6dc27ffeed08c71fb38fa7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/71/61/c1/7161c135ae6dc27ffeed08c71fb38fa7.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(L) Fender, (R) G&L</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fender's tuning pegs are again smaller, but are of a slightly denser material. G&L uses "Ultra-Light" aluminum tapered posts. On the new Professional series, Fender has added more taper to its tuners than on the previous American Standard units.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Both use round string trees for the "D" and "G" strings. Fender moved the trussrod to the end of the neck, while the G&L's is located behind the nut. The grain patterns also reveals different neck types: a flatsawn Fender, and the quartersawn G&L. </span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/3b/3e/84/3b3e8496bf7dc6cab21f6fa790acf3fe.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/3b/3e/84/3b3e8496bf7dc6cab21f6fa790acf3fe.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(L) Fender, (R) G&L</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bridges. Fender has beefed up its vintage bridge and includes the option to string though the body. The G&L bridge is my favorite of any on the market; it includes a protrusion on the underside that fits deep into the body. It also has a set screw on the right side that locks the bridge down keeping anything from moving.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><u>Details, details...</u></i></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Aside from the large, more obvious items to compare, the less obvious details are important too. Here are two or three points that become noticeable when playing with a band:</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/79/f3/33/79f33370cc97d0a92c3553991b4a0404.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/79/f3/33/79f33370cc97d0a92c3553991b4a0404.png" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(L) Fender glossy finish, (R) G&L satin finish</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Side markers. Seldomly do I look at the face markers when playing live; it's the side markers that I use for reference, and this is one point where the Fender is lacking. Each of Fender's side dots are positioned half on the rosewood and half on the maple, compared to the G&L which position its side dots completely on the rosewood. On a dimly lit stage, the Fender dots are tough to see. Conversely, G&L markers visually jump out do to positioning and use of a different material that reflects light better than those on the Fender.</span></span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/dc/10/c3/dc10c315c6ede1cad83550e7301aadd3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/dc/10/c3/dc10c315c6ede1cad83550e7301aadd3.png" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(L) Fender, (R) G&L</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Strap buttons. While the Fender units are nice, the G&L buttons do a better job of keeping the strap in place because the top portion is wider. Fender's are great if you use rubber washers to lock the strap down, otherwise G&L have the best non-locking buttons on the market. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">G&L buttons are also a bit shorter than Fender's, and don't protrude as far into the bottom of a gig bag. Of course that is less of an issue if you only use a hardshell case. </span></span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/c6/8e/a9/c68ea9746098d9365ddcfff1b08a172d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/c6/8e/a9/c68ea9746098d9365ddcfff1b08a172d.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(Top) Fender, (Bottom) G&L</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cases become more important if you transport your instrument from home to a gig. Again, this is one of those less obvious details at first blush. Fender cases have molded plastic outer shells with foam inserts, and have a really comfortable handle compared to that which G&L offers. G&L have long sourced their cases from the G&G case company, which are Tolex-covered plywood shells with padded inserts to keep the bass secure. Fender's case is much lighter and more comfortable to carry around town. Unfortunately, the case that shipped with my Fender is coming apart. The foam insert in the top half of the case has separated from the plastic shell. After a pleasant phone call, Fender's customer service arranged for a replacement to be sent.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Tone Report:</i></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tone is such a subjective thing, so I wont get too deep into the weeds here. However, there are some characteristics that most people would notice, and I will attempt a bit of that here. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If these four basses can be thought of in terms of a sound spectrum, with lower output and sweeter tones on the left, to higher output and more aggressive tones on the right, my ears rank them as follows:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blue LB100 <b>/</b> Fender Precision <b>/</b> Purple LB100 <b>/</b> SB-1</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxGEsBuSG6WInoMOWwLCg9XimDR1SofzCUuVFF6l42_hABplTsTjBg_e4s2okvpPbVz1m-nlUIlmXs4XDLyCCXlu9936iJR2-aTI2TPJmJGv2TqeYxLehH4hUO49q2D4KScNNXXzT8n8wW/s1600/Sound-spectrum-5585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxGEsBuSG6WInoMOWwLCg9XimDR1SofzCUuVFF6l42_hABplTsTjBg_e4s2okvpPbVz1m-nlUIlmXs4XDLyCCXlu9936iJR2-aTI2TPJmJGv2TqeYxLehH4hUO49q2D4KScNNXXzT8n8wW/s400/Sound-spectrum-5585.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Again, tone being very subjective and personal, it is difficult to give an objective report. That said, each of these basses hit the classic P sound, and in the case of the SB-1, the P-sound <i>and much more.</i> Also notice that the Purple LB100 is ranked more aggressive than the Blue LB100. With the exception of the color, the two basses have exactly the same specs and strings, but the tone is more aggressive with the Purple bass; this is another example of an instrument being more than just the sum of its parts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the weeks to come I will post a video comparison of the four basses and you can let your own ears determine which tones you like best. 'Till then...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>...Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span><br />
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Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-20473675753589630492017-02-27T13:20:00.000-08:002017-03-16T13:40:48.107-07:00Music Room Remodel Pt. 3: Complete!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While there are a few small things I still need (<i>desk lamp, something to cover tv/speaker wires...</i>) the project is complete. One of the things I'm happiest with is the supports for the guitar hangers:</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/d1/1c/79/d11c798c49cd7d5d7ea36653d5a1f878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/d1/1c/79/d11c798c49cd7d5d7ea36653d5a1f878.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The various nicks & dings seen above are from my drill slipping off the screw head... So I drilled pilot holes for the screws and drove them by hand.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Having the bolts recessed allowed me to cover them with the outside hangers. Naturally the wall studs didn't line up with my design plans for the supports, so I chose to use <a href="http://www.zackelectronics.com/toggler-bb-24014-ea-1-4-toggler-anchors-sold-each.html?gclid=CjwKEAiAirXFBRCQyvL279Tnx1ESJAB-G-Qvd-JOi2OdXpExx-WNKJT_7B2_hUa8b3LSBgA1GffEfxoCrf7w_wcB]" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">"Toggler"</span></a> which thankfully worked as advertised.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dealing with the slanted celling was a little tricky; I decided to step things down visually </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">from right to left:</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With the supports and guitar hangers installed, the final two puzzle pieces were acquired & installed over the weekend. First I needed a desk. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before making the long trip up to the Seattle area to visit Ikea and the local re-stores around town, I decided to visit our state's surplus store-- a place I recently discovered. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At best I thought I might find something to use as a base for a new desk top... however, I was able to score a computer desk in excellent condition for only $15!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Having saved a bundle on the desk, I was able to put a little more money toward a tv/sound-bar system. Our local </span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Buy More </i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">had everything I needed for the tv setup and the cables needed to connect my laptop to the tv. </span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To secure the TV mount to the drywall I attempted to use <a href="http://www.midlandhardware.com/621217.html?gclid=CjwKEAiAirXFBRCQyvL279Tnx1ESJAB-G-QvcUMuKk2AFDUlVKRNpwHiS-KgUT7woNIpNolU1vp0ihoCAeTw_wcB]" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">"<i>Toggler </i></span></a></span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><a href="http://www.midlandhardware.com/621217.html?gclid=CjwKEAiAirXFBRCQyvL279Tnx1ESJAB-G-QvcUMuKk2AFDUlVKRNpwHiS-KgUT7woNIpNolU1vp0ihoCAeTw_wcB]" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Self-Drilling Drywall Anchors 65lbs"</span></a> </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The package claims that you don't need a drill to install the anchor... that wasn't the case for me. First the anchors did not penetrate the drywall and instead smashed into a useless wad of plastic. So I drilled a small pilot hole... but the anchor busted off half way in. Eventually I succeeded by drilling a pair of 5/16" holes for the anchors, then patched and painted the earlier attempts.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">All of the above brings us to the finished product. A month or so after beginning, the claustrophobic, dimly lit attic room has become a brightly lit useful practice space.</span></span></span><br />
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</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTZQ9T7__REPkKDbJiNPJtt5oSW8UkhE1ntrj5jA6wHwUDyO9Dc9jfPHW5EF_U0HXBcCDhCjFOWCw7uLfaRhw0A5fyvSrfuIQDn4swnKFEzkazg_3amfo2wCETC_9KQlmUfVSTFkXf2Ee/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-01-16+at+8.40.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTZQ9T7__REPkKDbJiNPJtt5oSW8UkhE1ntrj5jA6wHwUDyO9Dc9jfPHW5EF_U0HXBcCDhCjFOWCw7uLfaRhw0A5fyvSrfuIQDn4swnKFEzkazg_3amfo2wCETC_9KQlmUfVSTFkXf2Ee/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-01-16+at+8.40.50+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Before:</b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69AEszR3vZLhb5lz_DvluFptcxzerDBpkHklsrg1GcFhJJzqoK3nKLHJ69Z-5qiKTKpxEKd9gxQGLeWMpJBGEPsN8Bm7kWscDajYjaH6rGilStuNHz1SjcevTLN6o10gDLNniPuFNwfTn/s1600/23fFeb_room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69AEszR3vZLhb5lz_DvluFptcxzerDBpkHklsrg1GcFhJJzqoK3nKLHJ69Z-5qiKTKpxEKd9gxQGLeWMpJBGEPsN8Bm7kWscDajYjaH6rGilStuNHz1SjcevTLN6o10gDLNniPuFNwfTn/s400/23fFeb_room.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Over the next few weeks I may tweak things a little, but all-in-all it's completed, and I'm thrilled to have a new practice space.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As the weather improves I will tackle a few other projects around the house, which are welcome deviations from music; the more creative outlets the better!</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Soon to come: Fender American Standard P-bass vs. G&L LB-100...</i></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>...Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-34562598364675423502017-02-23T09:26:00.000-08:002017-03-16T13:40:43.247-07:00Music Room Remodel Pt. 2<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here's the latest on my music room remodel:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEg-OAbsf_Pv8XUm473FHQFF4ZKiRm7CgljRboLQlBC0Jb1LdSLamABgOUxEa1r8z9GeyF2u_y1s_fCiYoyEj83SlyN8dBI4CKPm-C61ooR92SxFSz_hyphenhyphenw-l56MEQDFT58QMN9x4xwwqm/s1600/17FebLevel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEg-OAbsf_Pv8XUm473FHQFF4ZKiRm7CgljRboLQlBC0Jb1LdSLamABgOUxEa1r8z9GeyF2u_y1s_fCiYoyEj83SlyN8dBI4CKPm-C61ooR92SxFSz_hyphenhyphenw-l56MEQDFT58QMN9x4xwwqm/s320/17FebLevel.JPG" width="241" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Searched through a bunch of different molding options over the last few weeks. Came home with solid wood moldings, but quickly realized each piece was warped(!) Returned those for MDF, got them home only to discover they would be too heavy for my use (I don't want to use adhesive along with nails). </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/8b/51/be/8b51bea45292f3919328aad4059aa923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/8b/51/be/8b51bea45292f3919328aad4059aa923.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Back to the hardware store <i>(1hr round trip each time) </i>returned the MDF for PVC composite moldings. Much easier to install by myself, straight as an arrow and pre-finished; third time is a charm! Completed hanging them yesterday. BTW, I used the hammer-&-nail method rather than using a nail gun-- those dang things are expensive! (LOL!)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With that behind me I started on the support for the guitar hangers. After measuring things up, I decided to hide the mounting bolts of the support behind the guitar hangers:</span><br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/19/41/64/19416467d55d57eae1ffb12e71c6d8c0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/19/41/64/19416467d55d57eae1ffb12e71c6d8c0.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today I applied the second coat of paint and filled a few of the knots that didn't want to remain hidden behind the paint. Tomorrow will be the final coat of paint, then I'll be able to assemble everything and bolt them to the walls. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Also on the ticket for this week is framing & hanging some posters & prints:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">During my down times, I've been searching the net for plans to build a desk, though I am also going to search local re-stores with an eye for something I can repurpose-- might save some time and look good along the way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Stay tuned and in tune! </b></i></span></span>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-22834686094551239562017-01-30T17:04:00.000-08:002017-03-16T13:40:25.731-07:00Music Room Remodel: Week 1<div data-redactor="1" style="font-family: verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
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<span style="color: #191919;">One of the </span><a href="http://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/2017/01/happy-new-year.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">projects for this year</span></a><span style="color: #191919;"> that I am most excited about is our music room renovation. This has been a long time coming, and I am thoroughly enjoying the process.</span><br />
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Until now, I have been using a sofa table as a desk in a poorly lit, dark room that is actually just a finished attic space. While I cannot change the size of the room, I <i>can</i> work on everything else.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTZQ9T7__REPkKDbJiNPJtt5oSW8UkhE1ntrj5jA6wHwUDyO9Dc9jfPHW5EF_U0HXBcCDhCjFOWCw7uLfaRhw0A5fyvSrfuIQDn4swnKFEzkazg_3amfo2wCETC_9KQlmUfVSTFkXf2Ee/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-01-16+at+8.40.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTZQ9T7__REPkKDbJiNPJtt5oSW8UkhE1ntrj5jA6wHwUDyO9Dc9jfPHW5EF_U0HXBcCDhCjFOWCw7uLfaRhw0A5fyvSrfuIQDn4swnKFEzkazg_3amfo2wCETC_9KQlmUfVSTFkXf2Ee/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-01-16+at+8.40.50+PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>My original "Music Room"</i></td></tr>
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Thankful for having a dedicated space to practice and create in, I have always felt that I was simply adapting to someone else's space:</div>
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The room was painted by the previous owners who did the room in light brown with a dark blue wall. Now that we've been in the house a few years and the higher priority projects have been completed, it is finally time to make this space my own.</div>
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A few items to note before starting: </div>
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- The wall slopes from eight to six-feet</div>
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- Florescent lighting</div>
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- Dark colors</div>
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One of the things we've been doing in general is to bring color back to the house, as most everything was brown and dark-stained wood. So deciding on the paint colors took quite a bit of time. First things first though, was to cover the dark colors with a white primer. <i>BTW, painting textured walls can be a real PIA!</i></div>
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And after two gallons of primer and a few days of work:</div>
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Part of my vision in this project is to provide this finished attic-space with a sense that it is a room with purpose. So I decided to add some additional visual elements such as a chair rail. For this I purchased an inexpensive laser level from the hardware store. </div>
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Next move was to remove the old fluorescents, and bring in my old Craftsman flood lights since the room doesn't have any natural lighting:</div>
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The old fluorescent lighting gave off a lot of heat, emitted a buzzing noise, and the light tubes were dying with an annoying fluttering that would often result in no light whatsoever. Originally, I wanted to replace them with a pair of those long, straight bars of small LED lamps. However, after getting advice from folks at our local lighting store I decided to go with fewer lights that hang closer to the slanted ceiling-- which is important for a tall guy such as myself (!)</div>
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Today, <i>(beginning week-2)</i> was spent ordering parts that will enable me to hang my guitars/basses on the walls-- something I've never before had the nerve to do-- and searching for new musical-themed prints to hang on the wall. It is surprising how little I can find, and this is in the days of the <i>World-Wide-Web</i>. For example, try finding a poster or 8x10 of Booker T and the MG's-- they are as rare as hens-teeth! Not all was lost, as I did find a few other prints, though I continue to search...</div>
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Tomorrow I will tape off the the walls again to start working on the lower section, source chair rail material and paint it before cutting in a day or two. </div>
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This should be a fun and productive week! <br />
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<i><b>Stay tuned and in tune!</b></i><br />
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Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-17722264127613445702017-01-30T16:11:00.002-08:002017-01-30T16:12:32.798-08:00Page Update<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Having a little free time on my hands last week I did a few things to clean up the blog a bit. Perhaps the most notable change is the spinning globe on the right, that displays your current location, and that of others who have recently viewed the page; now how cool is that?! --></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Also attempted to update some of the links that have gone dead since I posted in the respective threads. There are a few more to update, but it takes time to click through each one... I'll continue to work at it</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Got a few new posts that are in production, so as always...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">...<i><b>stay tuned and in tune!</b></i></span>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-88014093305349730722017-01-16T20:55:00.003-08:002017-03-21T10:14:37.611-07:00Happy New Year!!<h2>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Welcome</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> to 2017!</span></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Beginning this new year I am filled with optimism and excitement. Resolutions have never been my thing, but I do enjoy setting goals. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What I have in store for 2017:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>- <u>Learn to Read Music</u></i></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKw4zwW3WnkvKi7FKQ91d8sLbdjXB3zNGRhYGsQLyC3lLQbk3lV98byqDVcjkCUfpKUDEZt40y6joBpXR4TR-W7IDruSFcIC8m75MJhZWzsaHiV9vjpHQfisCnYEXln4H-2sNHlSszE_i/s1600/hqdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKw4zwW3WnkvKi7FKQ91d8sLbdjXB3zNGRhYGsQLyC3lLQbk3lV98byqDVcjkCUfpKUDEZt40y6joBpXR4TR-W7IDruSFcIC8m75MJhZWzsaHiV9vjpHQfisCnYEXln4H-2sNHlSszE_i/s200/hqdefault.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Visualize what we hear</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> This is something that I've long wanted to do, but never had the time to invest. Now that I have more time on my hands, I've run out of excuses for not learning notation. New song ideas are always floating through my head, and having a way to capture them would be a huge help. Being fluent in notation would also help when trying to communicate musical ideas to other musicians. It only makes sense to develop the ability to see music as well as to hear it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>- <u>Take Lessons With Local Instructor</u></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Following up with the desire to learn notation, meeting with a musician of greater skill can also help me break out of the various ruts I've found myself in this past year. Having someone to hold me accountable to practice would be tremendously helpful, as I find it too easy to formulate excuses to postpone practice.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQur2GmfR1CEpim7EAdQqUfGU0-aisKoA_YqkjXvf8zHpfJ1Vf5m0o9gS5ENb1NRUmm_YyJ2JeLy9iIs2Ts540uycK_UIcTtYymBRzL_1hkyiPiFQOWR76i8OVzgcFNGLDpdRnNbxAnXO/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-01-16+at+8.08.22+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQur2GmfR1CEpim7EAdQqUfGU0-aisKoA_YqkjXvf8zHpfJ1Vf5m0o9gS5ENb1NRUmm_YyJ2JeLy9iIs2Ts540uycK_UIcTtYymBRzL_1hkyiPiFQOWR76i8OVzgcFNGLDpdRnNbxAnXO/s200/Screen+Shot+2017-01-16+at+8.08.22+PM.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.scottsbasslessons.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Scott's Bass Lessons</span></a></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>- <u>Online Lessons?</u></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Taking lessons online through an organization such as Scott's Bass Lessons is very tempting, and might be a more cost effective alternative to finding a local instructor... This approach may also depend on the availability/quality of local instructors. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>- <u>Join In With More Musicians</u> </i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZfgledavVuuVP3nEkm2vynd22TJE3e1nDB5VNBM7vRgIHI4h3JbyznRd3cvFS0JXJH-YS0vqGr_Acrjz-FDMIJjcgW875bNBkYDj1HAGDNXtDVfO7BZSYpBU05IsdQestvradNiM6SKl/s1600/Traditional%252BIrish%252BMusic%252BSession%252B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZfgledavVuuVP3nEkm2vynd22TJE3e1nDB5VNBM7vRgIHI4h3JbyznRd3cvFS0JXJH-YS0vqGr_Acrjz-FDMIJjcgW875bNBkYDj1HAGDNXtDVfO7BZSYpBU05IsdQestvradNiM6SKl/s200/Traditional%252BIrish%252BMusic%252BSession%252B%25282%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> We have local gatherings that I would really like to get involved with, and maybe form groups to play at various locations and events. There are two settings that I have long wanted to participate in: one is at our local farmer's market, where local bands often play on the weekends, and the other is a weekly Irish music jam session at one of the local pubs. This is more of a long-term goal, however I do intend to start networking this year. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>- <u>Remodel Our Music Room</u></i></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmJRkSkPsNCzzAkCBncSnqfYlARW8dvyaVzbyD3BsQW4iGqoPbv1-IO-_siZcOCM08uvDUjZrRchUcec1lv5XGpXI22FwdQlarD_goI86ybGpbU4z8-FdvX98GX9A1XyTfPhyGBwPIGr1/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-01-16+at+8.40.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmJRkSkPsNCzzAkCBncSnqfYlARW8dvyaVzbyD3BsQW4iGqoPbv1-IO-_siZcOCM08uvDUjZrRchUcec1lv5XGpXI22FwdQlarD_goI86ybGpbU4z8-FdvX98GX9A1XyTfPhyGBwPIGr1/s200/Screen+Shot+2017-01-16+at+8.40.50+PM.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Our humble music room</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> We have a small room (finished attic space) that I've been using for a music room. Trouble is, the lighting is poor and I don't have a true desk to make the space truly useable. For the last few years I've been using a sofa table in lieu of a desk... which has since been moved to another part of the house. This year I want to give the room a fresh coat of paint, adjustable LED lighting, and a proper desk. Much of this project I hope to begin this week-- after cleaning out the garage and gathering the required painting supplies which are scattered in its various nooks and crannies. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>- <u>Try New Things</u></i></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSWm7JjWSMRFWz_4MXC-2rDW4DTp9pqISrcKM-mVE1JdQ4nduSnn1u0lkpXa9LEbP_zHHEa3pMatTQDDVGJif4OIoL2EDxlJ1BQ1ihcudfxx3oZziv_DPsU6xAIPBANERRxiWXK-TlN7MJ/s1600/try-new-things.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSWm7JjWSMRFWz_4MXC-2rDW4DTp9pqISrcKM-mVE1JdQ4nduSnn1u0lkpXa9LEbP_zHHEa3pMatTQDDVGJif4OIoL2EDxlJ1BQ1ihcudfxx3oZziv_DPsU6xAIPBANERRxiWXK-TlN7MJ/s320/try-new-things.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Having played bass for several years, I've become comfortable with things such as my rig, playing technique, and musical genres. This year I intend to stretch my comfort zone a bit by trying gear that I normally wouldn't, genres that I rarely think about, and techniques that I've neglected. There is always something to be learned by trying new things, which is one way we grow as musicians-- <i>and as people</i>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Naturally, I will document my progress on this blog as a way to visualize my progress, and hopefully encourage others to improve their skills along the way too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, what resolutions, or goals have you set for this year? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Everyone is welcome to follow along and to join in as we begin this new year together...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>... Stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-74185107440991059152016-11-24T11:31:00.000-08:002017-01-16T21:03:33.564-08:00108 Days of Practice Wrap-up<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9HI9ivbhmMVrX3icpDow4V15AvmykmpT2Hfrwf0Zpti8_hW52oSHvGeyJ8udTsVeifbLLSr2Ma9nT329QwjWXGkEgpFEkJAT_DLP_E5izb_7P_EHTPonCejqOyhBwkvmoG9mIwXO07yL/s1600/parrot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9HI9ivbhmMVrX3icpDow4V15AvmykmpT2Hfrwf0Zpti8_hW52oSHvGeyJ8udTsVeifbLLSr2Ma9nT329QwjWXGkEgpFEkJAT_DLP_E5izb_7P_EHTPonCejqOyhBwkvmoG9mIwXO07yL/s320/parrot.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And so...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">...my "108 Days of Practice" adventure has finally come to the same end as Monty Python's Norwegian Blue parrot, which:</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Has passed on </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Is no more</i></span><br />
<i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Has ceased to be </i></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>
</i></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Gone on to meet its maker </i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bereft of life </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pushing up the daisies </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Metabolic processes are now history </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's off the twig </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kicked the bucket </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shuffled off it's mortal coil, run down the curtain and joined the bleeding' choir invisible!</div>
</i></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To be honest, it has been dead for quite some time, having been nailed to the perch so to speak. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Looking back, I learned some great Duck Dunn tunes, along with a few others. Also got to put some honest practice time on a 5-string bass-- a first for me. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Looking forward, I will try another practice challenge, but shorter in length and with a partner to keep each other on track. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the meantime, our music-room needs remodeling, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">along with several other projects around the house, and I still have Sunday service to keep my bass chops up for,</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> so...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>...stay tuned, and in tune!</i></b></span><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1000241195753453880.post-61801283710977489752016-10-21T12:36:00.001-07:002016-10-21T12:46:18.679-07:00Gear Review: Fender Rumble Version 3<h4>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Convenience has become an obstacle in my <i><a href="http://bassguitaradventures.blogspot.com/p/108-days-of-practice.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">108 Days of Practice</span></a></i> adventure. </span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A great sounding practice rig, and lovely space</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My main practice rig is fairly large; it consists of my main amp, a powered monitor and a Mac laptop. As such, it remains in my practice room. It is true, I can move it from room to room, but the setup requires a lot of space-- and frankly, I hate moving the entire rig up and down stairs. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuOiscTqyQdf_5aPJuHNRz73PHqrne2cUc6B8w9Fi0wGV9r4dQcuwW02_tN7uprfpKw33_i0dVLumylwPWRMV09AlTiKai8iV2x0xP2N8vcBBScdO9ddUn1XOwSE3BK11InlITUTXZyGF5/s1600/practicerig.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuOiscTqyQdf_5aPJuHNRz73PHqrne2cUc6B8w9Fi0wGV9r4dQcuwW02_tN7uprfpKw33_i0dVLumylwPWRMV09AlTiKai8iV2x0xP2N8vcBBScdO9ddUn1XOwSE3BK11InlITUTXZyGF5/s200/practicerig.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Boss TU-88 is a great alternative<br /> for silent practice</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My alternative practice rig is much easier to move around, but is limited to playing though headphones. It consists of a <a href="https://www.boss.info/us/products/tu-88/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Boss TU-88 Micro Monitor & Tuner</span>,</a> laptop, and headphones. This is a great setup for playing though headphones, though it is limited to sitting in one spot and using something to keep the light-weight Boss unit in place; stand up to stretch and the unit goes with you...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So what to do? Use the above excuses as reasons not to practice? Admittedly, that is exactly what I have done over the last few weeks when skipping practice. Granted, I still got in some good practice sessions, but not quite every day as the project requires... more like every other third day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.sweetwater.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Sweetwater</span></a> to the rescue! </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While taking an honest look at my practice habits last week, I logged on to my favorite on-line retailer to explore items that would address my reasons for skipping practice, thereby enabling me to practice more often. After an hour or so, I narrowed my search to something that is easy to carry from room to room, with a built in speaker, headphone jack, and auxiliary input; and one rather important feature-- it must be under $100. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">All of which pointed to a small practice amp, though most were outside my price range, or starter amps that are just too cheap to bother with.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then there was one! </span></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgk9e5Eh_6vmZQ3M_paVgGLBOTIpMpKlzKEtg9Ck42IvxtEsu75dhe8n8zdrPfJPbG2Ua8VhCjLhOcFjdVUYPj9BDDg7FkNYoccoY4VIcokgAPWxHQHuLgYVqhSNQZBhnDRN3TKdkRv4M/s1600/IMG_8131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgk9e5Eh_6vmZQ3M_paVgGLBOTIpMpKlzKEtg9Ck42IvxtEsu75dhe8n8zdrPfJPbG2Ua8VhCjLhOcFjdVUYPj9BDDg7FkNYoccoY4VIcokgAPWxHQHuLgYVqhSNQZBhnDRN3TKdkRv4M/s320/IMG_8131.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>First test-run of the amp with my G&L LB-100</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Two </i>actually; Fender's third generation Rumble bass amps in <a href="http://shop.fender.com/en-US/bass-amplifiers/rumble/rumble-15/2370100000.html#start=1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b><i>15</i></b></span></a> and 25 watts. The <b><a href="http://shop.fender.com/en-US/bass-amplifiers/rumble/rumble-25/2370200000.html#start=1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><i>Rumble 25</i></span></a> </b>was only about $20 more expensive than the 15, and considering the 25 was still within my budget I placed my order. My hope was this little practice amp would be light enough to easily move around the house, heavy enough to remain in place when I want to stand while practicing, handle input from my laptop, or iPhone, and sound good though the speaker or headphones. Photos of the amp suggest that leaving it in our living room would also be a welcome option as it is very easy on the eyes. Reviews on-line were overwhelmingly positive, so I had high hopes for this little Chinese made amp. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Five days later it arrived.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sound Test</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As soon as the amp arrived I grabbed my favorite bass and plugged in; mainly to make sure nothing was damaged from shipping. At first I intended to spend a few minutes going through the controls just to make sure everything was good. Surprised at how good this little amp sounded, I ended up spending the next two hours playing though this little box of tone. Part of the initial <i>getting acquainted</i> period was fiddling with the knobs and the two switches. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixcbX4hsPPjMbUzTuhLE06-29zQFacajsLX4hyphenhyphenBY8SxJc3GvVmUoO_UP4YPPhw_VCfDcS2G8K_zC2Ed-HeD4sT3NWtEv3LJPrXwLgZEdov_HQagBBGncbixrRpeBEc87gx96PEVlly8p8D/s1600/ControlsRumble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixcbX4hsPPjMbUzTuhLE06-29zQFacajsLX4hyphenhyphenBY8SxJc3GvVmUoO_UP4YPPhw_VCfDcS2G8K_zC2Ed-HeD4sT3NWtEv3LJPrXwLgZEdov_HQagBBGncbixrRpeBEc87gx96PEVlly8p8D/s320/ControlsRumble.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Everything I require in a practice amp</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Controls are simple: volume, bass, mid, treble. As is my starting point, I ended up leaving all at their center detent except the volume, which I set to roughly 25%. The tone is classic Fender, and loud enough to fill our living room. The two switches </span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(buttons, to be precise) </i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> are "overdrive," and "contour." The first does what one would expect, which never really appealed to me. "Contour" seems to scoop out the midrange; again, a feature that I could happily do without. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmnmWjU9UZ_KEPskO0FUMxC2H4OM3Tnz3gBDmfhhjKQYchoofdCZe8Ral1WYeHcT0bOez5KXL1B8iBbxKcDHWF_PoOzrRVclmpfIBK-nGCuB9vM4VMuU2RUkCyXKUw2dnLTZFskeHQ41Zz/s1600/AuxRumble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmnmWjU9UZ_KEPskO0FUMxC2H4OM3Tnz3gBDmfhhjKQYchoofdCZe8Ral1WYeHcT0bOez5KXL1B8iBbxKcDHWF_PoOzrRVclmpfIBK-nGCuB9vM4VMuU2RUkCyXKUw2dnLTZFskeHQ41Zz/s320/AuxRumble.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Metronome, iPod, headphones, and a great sounding speaker!</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Surprisingly, the Rumble's eight-inch speaker sounds much bigger than it is. Turn the volume up to half and the house is rocking! This would be a wonderful amp for acoustic jams-- it is very light-weight (about 20 pounds), sounds terrific and can really wail. This is primarily a practice amp though, and as such it really shines. The aux input allows for playing along with an iPod, or a metronome as I have been doing a lot lately. Unlike some practice amps that have trouble reproducing songs from an iPod, this amp handles it with ease. Add my bass to the mix, and both sounds come out wonderful-- exactly what I was looking for in a practice tool.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SwnYdNSrcQrLcEwLV9XnXVGY6R17weugSZkxF7NzWCuN23UsQtym5kY1lk6QXkSTOPXgY-GIZXgxuyMhLdp5v522nkI3Wz5mf7zmG_tyozbmIbyKmYs14rY6ygqp7Nyr0Yvws_ZlC0Jx/s1600/VanquishRumble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SwnYdNSrcQrLcEwLV9XnXVGY6R17weugSZkxF7NzWCuN23UsQtym5kY1lk6QXkSTOPXgY-GIZXgxuyMhLdp5v522nkI3Wz5mf7zmG_tyozbmIbyKmYs14rY6ygqp7Nyr0Yvws_ZlC0Jx/s320/VanquishRumble.jpg" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sounds just as good as it looks!</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Aesthetically it is a vintage, simple look that either appeals to you or not. Personally I really like it; more importantly so does my wife, which is a real blessing! Because she likes it, the amp is welcome to reside in our living room, making it easy for me to plug in without the bother of moving around a lot of gear. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since its arrival last week, I have played the heck out of the Rumble. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Will this little wonder of an amp encourage me to practice more often? We will have to wait and see. In the meantime...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>...stay tuned & in tune!</i></b></span></div>
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Monahanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05615291188457817471noreply@blogger.com0