Set up differences/jazz and classical players

[Arnold Schnitzer]

There are many set-up variations for both classical and jazz players. To generalize, classical players need more arch in the fingerboard, which helps with clean arco string crossings. Most jazz players like the board a little flatter in the arch, which makes it easier to cross strings pizzicato. When strings are set high, and the bass is to be bowed, a lot of fingerboard and bridge arch is required, and the strings may need to be spaced farther apart. That's because when you press an individual string to the fingerboard you move it down a lot compared to its adjacent strings. This makes bowing cleanly on one string very difficult. As far as camber (longitudinal scoop), gut strings need more. Players who pluck hard generally need more. Players who fire the strings downward (plucking finger toward the bass' belly) need more. A flattish arch is good for finesse players and easy-going bowers, also classical soloists. These are all generalizations; every player needs something a little bit different.

[Bob Branstetter]

While there may be no "official" designation of jazz or classical setups, IMO, they certainly do exist as de facto standards. The great majority of my doublebass setups are for jazz players and while there are certainly exceptions, the great majority of jazz players who come to me want setups where the strings are as close as possible to the fingerboard, without any buzzing while pulling the strings as hard as they would ever pull them. This usually means a fairly flat arch and strings fairly close together. For most classical players, this would be the last thing in the world they would want for playing arco.

One of the first questions I ask a new customer is whether they want their bass setup for jazz or classical. Even if jazz or classical setups do not exist, the customers always seem to know what I am talking about.

[Greg Clinkingbeard]

When I bought my Upton, I told them I wanted it set up for jazz play with the strings close to the fingerboard. I wasn't experienced' enough to give any more information regarding string spacing or radius. The bass arrived almost exactly the way I expected although I might prefer less scoop in the fb and I did cut the nut slots a bit deeper. My teacher commented on the nice setup. Since his main bass was set up by Bob, I take it as a compliment. Aside from the sheer size of his bass, it's got an incredible setup and tone.

Question, Why do basses vary so much regarding tension? Is it the tailpiece , the thickness of the top? What is it?