lozbass

I'm pretty sure that the tunrers in the ebay pic are not reversible. There's some info on the Schaller website that may be of interest - apparently, some of the company's Fender/Gibson fit tuners are reversible (the specific models can be ascertained I think)

Moody are the most supple and comfortable that I've found (by far). I think Italia are probably very close (if I remember correctly, the husband of the Moody founder set-up Italia after a split). Moodys can go very short indeed - they're very expensive however. American Guitar Center are offering the 4" at £180. You could probably import one from the US for around £120 (depending on shipping and tax).

My first proper bass was a Ripper - I'd lusted after it for years - an early one that had been very well used by the time it appeared in Manchester's A1 around '77. Two years on, a job on the post gave me access to the credit I needed. I still have the bass and still love it. In the mid 70s the shops were full of Fenders - probably a 15:1 Fender/Gibson ratio. I wanted something different and was impressed by the elegance of the Ripper compared to Fenders. The overall build and set neck is beautifully done and the playability has always been extraordinary (even guitar players have loved it). Also, the bass had a massive powerful, clang and growl - not Fender-like at all. Another big influence in the choice was Patrick Djivas of PFM - what a tone (but what a player!). So too - at the time - the extra-long scale. In the early 80s I commissioned two major hot-rod 'upgrades'. The latter, a massive revision of the electronics completely changed the tone of the instument - still great but very different and I miss the Ripper growl. To address the OP, some 70s Gibsons are phenomenal basses and, to me, something different (often better) than the glut of Fenders. Rippers and Grabbers also seem to be enjoying a very welcome rennaisance (maybe beyond retro chic) - try a few and I hope you'll be flying the flag!

This kind of thing makes my heart sing - love Basschat. Hope it all goes well!

I'm not sure this really helps, but I have a Fender US J in Sonic Blue in my office now - it's from 2003 (Special Edition '75 reissue with MHS) - you can see pics in Gear Porn 'Jazz' thread. I agree, Sonic is just a fantastic colour. If Sonic's what you want, I'd just go for it.

Absolutely lovely - I see some expected faces in this thread (all lovers of a spectactular exotic!)

I live round the corner and will avoid again this year - I did two, both cacophonous and disorienting (and frankly a bit boring in my opinion, other than meeting with friends and BCers). The highspot of one was a drummer!

Wonderful - shell pink is one of my favourite colours - I agree that there could be significant demand for something like this

[quote name='Chris2112' post='1263937' date='Jun 10 2011, 02:04 PM']Why such a short time?[/quote] They're made a bit weird and can sound tinny?

I've just received a Zoom H2 from Nick - an absolutely fantastic deal with great communication and very prompt action throughout. The unit arrived perfectly packed and in fantastic condition - a great seller and a great credit to Basschat! Thanks Nick

Whooaah - absolutely fabulous! I'm very envious indeed

Great to see the tracing is sorted! FlatEric - I think the images are fantastic, so too the blog - I'll certainly be back (it great to see something out of the ordinary!) I'll try to get a picture of my Ripper up later (there used to be one on here somewhere but I can't find it!)

Bit OT but Flat Eric - just had a look at your collection - absolutely marvellous! Great to see some very unusual basses (and great photographs too!) Back on topic - I have an old Ripper but I'm not sure I have a piece of paper of sufficient size.

never tire of 4000s image of the Triple O - without doubt, the most staggering piece of walnut I've ever seen and a stunning bass (I had the pleasure of seeing it in the flesh). OT I know but I get hypnotised by wood like that

Try Overwater - I've had great results at very reasonable prices