ped

Yes ok maybe one of the first then - however anyone using graphite could be called a pioneer imo. I suppose back then there was little information about who else was doing what so many manufacturers who have been around a long time probably pioneered the same sort of things in semi isolation. I would also put alembic uo there of course, having had one and admired many more.

As mentioned I really like bass builders who make more than just the ‘chassis’ and bolt bought in components to them (simplifying it slightly). For me the top makers are the ones who make bespoke pickups, hardware and circuits themselves, or at least work with companies who make them for the builder specifically. I also value above a lot of other factors some innovation. So that rules out most people making jazz bass clones. I think a top maker has their own design language and has a no compromise approach, making something idiosyncratic that might not sell in high volume but is the result of a no compromise way of approaching the instrument. So I’m going to say the likes of Vigier (carbon pioneer, weird and proprietary electronics, individual shape) and Smith (own shape, pioneered the whole game, impeccable build and instantly recognisable sound) because that’s what I own and I’m biased. hehe

We’ve got a ‘location’ box ready, we’ve been testing it on Guitarchat and will add it here.

Good to know. Elixir recently redesigned their packaging making it harder to counterfeit but there are still lots of old boxes about. Looks like a bargain then. So do they have different gauges?

Collection only

Wherever you came from (I think the planet bass), you are BC royalty now 👑

Crikey. Right I better go to work.

Thanks for the support

Hi Dave See FAQ 5 and 6 here https://www.basschat.co.uk/faq/ Any probs let me know. Cheers!

Apparently the VR is great with two cabs. Looks cool, too. I gather same early units malfunctioned at 4ohms but think it was fixed quickly but the legend remains. The only thing putting me off (apart from not actually needing an amp) is that the fan noise is quite noticeable at low levels.

Hi folks This arrived today finally after a Paypal delay (didn't realise the payment would go as an e-cheque which took ages to clear!) Anyway after lots of emails forward and back with BCer @bassvid75 I finally decided to take the plunge and purchase this bass. I have always loved the 'Smith sound' which I would describe as very 'hifi' with very plummy mids and compressed treble. It's a beautiful sound that cuts right through any mix. Unfortunately Smith basses are quite hard to get hold of in the UK - I don't know if there's a UK distributor now but I know there wasn't for some time, making second hand the only option. Most of my basses have been bought 'unseen' and have been a bit of a gamble, this one is no exception. It came from Portugal and although I was excited I was also nervous having not played it. All the time Bassvid was saying how great the bass is, that the neck is totally flat and the truss rod hasn't been adjusted for seven years. As a graphite neck enthusiast this was an important factor. Well, what can I say - right out of the (huge and well packed) box, the teardrop case was thrown open and the bass was finally exposed to the UK sunshine. Right out of the case it played fantastically. Bassvid said it had the original Smith strings and needed a battery, so I put one in and slapped a new set of Elixirs on it, the strings I use on all my basses. I don't have the correct allen key for the bridge saddles so I thought I'd give it a play and adjust it all later, but it's set up almost exactly as I'd like already, as bassvid said it would be! Super low. If you don't know these basses, it's hard to describe what they feel like; the body is really thin and rounded. They feel amazing. The pickups are great, they have always reminded me of a chesterfield sofa for some reason. It's got a 2 band EQ which is, according to enthusiasts, clearer and more sparkly than the 5 knob version. I can't say i've been able to compare but the previous owner had several. The top is Koa and it has all the Smith in house hardware, including aluminium cover plate and truss rod cover. Recessed Dunlop strap locks and that fantastic hand shaped brass nut. Here's what a Smith sounds like (not me playing lol) This guy demonstrates one here, which sounds bang on - skip ahead if you want to hear some nice really simple fat grooves and a bit of B string. Here are my piccies, light not very good today but hopefully you can see it OK! Also there's a bonus pic of Sybil.

It's here!! DPD have restored my faith and have secured their 'top spot' on my list. One hour time slot was given and bass was delivered bang on time. Full NDB post coming soon!

You can start one! I try to avoid pinning threads unless they're important rules and so forth. They're useful for reference but pinning a discussion topic is normally the best way to get the topic ignored. People just glance past them and see what's current instead. So yes all in favour of a 'show us yer builds' type thread.

Very nice. I'm in York so maybe a future bash will work out!

Whereabouts do you live?

Yours looks every bit as good! Unfortunately I can't make the bash this year so you'll have to 'rep the 'sub 25" scale' club!

If it's any use, I use a EADGC set on my 5er but tuned BEADG. Then again mine is 16" scale but this works really well.

Due tomorrow. DPD will be in my prayers this evening 🙏

@Dood I’ve got something you can review. Will be in touch

Unfortunately they don't work for long. They absorb moisture from the air once the case is opened and need recharging in a hot oven.

It's going to be a very merry Christmas! Please post pics when you unwrap it!!

I remember playing one that was 3.5kg

Very nice indeed

Elixirs. I love them. A set lasts me a year and they come in the gauges I like. I do think they’re well worth the price. I used to avoid noodling on my bass at home because I didn’t want to ‘waste’ my strings!

Amazing!!