Quote:
Originally Posted by Tim Bishop
I've personally never experienced this and this is the first time I've heard something like this (which doesn't mean anything), however, maybe it's a matter of technique or the distinct differences in bass design. For the sake of my reply, I will assume by "digging in" you mean getting under the strings?
A couple of things:
1. Maybe your Bridge P/U height is set too high? Whether you have a light touch or not, and given the appropriate technique of playing at the Bridge P/U (i.e. not overly aggressive), I can't imagine how you would have a problem with this, unless of course, the P/U's are set too high (i.e. too close to your strings) for your playing style.
2. I would also agree, if you've grown accustomed to playing another bass with a different feel, you most likely would need an "adjustment period" (i.e. time to adjust to a different bass). An "adjustment period" would apply to ANY bass different in design from that which one has grown accustomed.
3. You should have reasonable, ample range to adjust the P/U height on your Smith (up or down) on either P/U accordingly.
When I play anywhere on TOP of the Smith Bridge P/U, the tips of my fingers are only grazing the top half or tops of the strings (depending on the sound I am trying to get). If I feel the need to dig in, I usually do so anywhere from the leading edge (i.e. neck-side) of the Bridge P/U towards the EOF (i.e. end of fretboard).
I would consider myself a dynamic player as far as technique is concerned. In other words, depending on what the tune demands, I may play with a light touch; I may play with MUCH aggression, or, somewhere in-between. I find that Smith Basses provide great flexibility: With the Smith Control's and EQ, I can dial in anything, no matter what my technique-of-the-moment may be; I'll adjust accordingly.
Hope this helps.
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Thanks for the alert, Tim. There IS an arrow to indicate "more post" on the quote section of my previous post...I didn't see the rest of the post - which does address the issue. The whole thing has improved a bit in the last couple of hrs but unless I'm mistaken my rear P/U was a little high.
I don't dig in that much (i.e "under the strings"...I only use "pulling" as in "pulling bass". Just a kind of slang). Ordinarily my fingers extend a few millimetres towards the body beyond the string..but sometimes more millimetres perhaps.
I'm "adjusting". I think the Smith sound is worth the work. Bases are so individual. When I find one that "works" I should snap it up.
I'm working on this one though. I think I need an Eden.
As usual, thanks.
Btw, do different makes of bass have different spacings between the frets?