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Post subject: Will this work for a Standard Fender Jazz Bass?
Posted: Mon Oct 13, 2008 8:45 am
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Hobbyist
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Hey guys, I was thinking about putting on a set of La Bella Heavy-Gauge Flatwound strings (.052 - .110 Flatwound, 0760M) onto a Standard Fender JBass.

1) My question is, would the stock nut be able to fit that heavy gauge strings?

2) What is the gauge of the stock roundwounds?

3) I also want to raise the action, so would that mean I will need to get a higher nut?

I'm trying to get similar setup to James Jamerson. I know he had a Pbass, but I got the Jbass for really cheap and next to brand new.

Suggestions would be a appreciated!

-Pancake


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Post subject:
Posted: Mon Oct 13, 2008 9:14 am
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Aspiring Musician
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Location: San German,Puerto Rico
My experience with bigger gauge strings was not a positive one! I installed one time that same gauge set on one of my 4 string jazz basses and no modifications to the nut but the strings felt like I was plucking the wires of the San Francisco bridge. Also I had to readjust the neck. The strings felt too stiff and it was difficult to play some bends . Those strings lasted one gig. I went back to the regular gauge I was using 45-65-80-100.

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1996 50th Anniversary Jazz 5 (012 0f 500)
1997 '51 P Bass Reissue
2012 American Standard Precision V
2013 Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Fretless


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Posted: Mon Oct 13, 2008 10:18 am
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I agree with Juan. That's what makes the forums great, we can all learn from mistakes.

Juan, checked out your "MySpace" looks good.


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Posted: Mon Oct 13, 2008 10:30 am
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You don't really need flatwounds unless you just want them.

If you do go with a heavier gauge, just make sure the nut slots are wide enough, don't force the string(s) into the slots, file the slots wider not deeper.
Raise your action at the bridge by raising the saddles. You may have to give the bass a full setup to balance out the changes.

To get Jamersons sound with roundwounds, roll off the treble/tone, use the neck pickup and play/pluck near the fretboard...this is a quick "on the fly" way to get close to a P bass sound, you'll want to experiment with different amp settings also.
To deaden or gunkup your strings quickly, don't wipe them down, don't wash your hands before playing, and rub your fingertips on the sides of your nose to pickup body oil and then play...repeat for a few hours.


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Posted: Mon Oct 13, 2008 11:06 am
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Wow, Seriously just 2 posts and you guys gave some amazing advice!!

thanks !!

Yeah I would like flatwounds, I don't like my sound to be too bright (which often times is overbearing on the higher notes). Aiming for a smoother, groover sound.


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Post subject:
Posted: Tue Oct 14, 2008 11:22 am
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oxfan wrote:
I agree with Juan. That's what makes the forums great, we can all learn from mistakes.

Juan, checked out your "MySpace" looks good.


Thanks oxfan! I'm constantly making changes with the songs.

_________________
1996 50th Anniversary Jazz 5 (012 0f 500)
1997 '51 P Bass Reissue
2012 American Standard Precision V
2013 Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Fretless


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Post subject:
Posted: Fri Oct 17, 2008 6:15 am
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To achieve Jamerson's sound you really need to be using Flatwound strings. Your nut should be fine as it is, but the trussrod might need adjusting due to the higher tension of these strings, although James Jamerson played using a very high action anyway.


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Post subject: everything...
Posted: Sun Oct 19, 2008 2:20 pm
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It looks like the neck and bridge would need to some adjustments. The nut could also need to be modified because of the larger gauge.


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Post subject:
Posted: Sat Oct 25, 2008 1:48 pm
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Roadie
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Joined: Fri Jun 29, 2007 6:40 pm
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Location: Eugene Or
Hi:

When I've changed to a heavier gauge set. I restring and tune. I let the bass SIT for 24-48 hours and let the neck settle. Then check the relief on the neck and adjust it. if you do it right away you may go to far or not far enough on the neck adjustment, You will also have to re-intonate the bridge slightly.

My best bet for the Motown tone...I'm Serious here :wink: ....Get some really greasy fried chicken, eat 2 pieces dont wipe off your hands, it will mellow the strings and make that neck slick and VERY FAST :idea: :D :twisted:


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