Thinking about a bass for my next build

[Securb]

I am thinking about a P-Bass or Ibanez project for my next build, I was wondering if any of you Gods of Thunder had any suggestions. I was thinking a P with a Steve Harris Duncan and a Babicz bridge. I did notice on Ebay Ibanez parts are plentiful and inexpensive. Any hints, tips or suggestions before I get started are greatly appreciated.

 

[jtougas]

Re: Thinking about a bass for my next build

I have a P I put together from parts - solid Squier body, all maple Mighty Mite neck, Babicz bridge, and SD QP pickup... sounds awesome.

I've been contemplating a Bartolini Musicman pickup on eBay, a Babicz bridge, and a swamp ash body (don't tell my wife, she'll kill me).

 

[uOpt]

Re: Thinking about a bass for my next build

For one-piece maple I recommend necks from MIM 50s series.

Bodies are a bit trickier due to MIJ often using random wood and the bulletproof paint on the MIM.

 

[Securb]

Re: Thinking about a bass for my next build

For one-piece maple I recommend necks from MIM 50s series.

Bodies are a bit trickier due to MIJ often using random wood and the bulletproof paint on the MIM.

I have been there with the MIM paint, it even laughs at aircraft stripper. Any suggestions for removing it without sanding?

I have a P I put together from parts - solid Squier body, all maple Mighty Mite neck, Babicz bridge, and SD QP pickup... sounds awesome.

I've been contemplating a Bartolini Musicman pickup on eBay, a Babicz bridge, and a swamp ash body (don't tell my wife, she'll kill me).

I have Babicz bridges on three guitars I am getting the impression they are just as impressive for bass.

 

[uOpt]

Re: Thinking about a bass for my next build

I have been there with the MIM paint, it even laughs at aircraft stripper. Any suggestions for removing it without sanding?

No. There's a big thread going on on basstalk or somewhere where somebody tackles one of those bodies. Can't be done.

But to clarify, the 50s necks have perfectly OK poly neck finish.

 

[jtougas]

Re: Thinking about a bass for my next build

I have Babicz bridges on three guitars I am getting the impression they are just as impressive for bass.

They have a profound effect on the tone of the instrument, but I had to take it off the J I put it on - it sounded too thick and meaty, if that's at all possible. It took away why you choose J over P.

*shrug* YMMV