What's in a Set-up?!

[Ken Smith]

Originally Posted by Richard Prowse

I'm assuming that dressing a fingerboard is a fairly straightforward procedure. I want to get my bass set up at 5mm - G and 8mm - E (exactly). My bass whines a bit on the G string around D & E (imagine 5th & 7th frets) - I want every note to be clear. Is it reasonable to assume that a good luthier could achieve this?

Richard my friend, that is a loaded question. Some claim that their Luthier is best while other will swear the opposite. A good 'Bass' Luthier (an make sure that is his specialty) is one who not only understands all aspects of set-up in regards to playing the Bass but also one who will maintain the integrity of the instrument in doing so.

A Luthier that pleases your needs in your world would be consideder a 'good' Luthier.