MM/Sterling Ray setup question

[Funky Dunky]

Is it possible to set one of these beauties up to have a fairly low action without the characteristic rattle these basses are famed for? Love, love LOVE that mean tone, but I find the rattle really offputting.

Or is just my fingering that needs work? ;-)

[mrn1989]

Ive set my EBMM Stingray up as low as I can, there is a bit of fret buzz but none amplified

[Funky Dunky]

You don't happen to know your specs offhand, do you? I would be interested to know how you have it.

[Horizontalste]

[quote name='Funky Dunky' timestamp='1426182395' post='2715392']
You don't happen to know your specs offhand, do you? I would be interested to know how you have it.
[/quote]


0.017 relief & 2mm @ the last fret, not uber low but no buzz & I can really dig in.

Edit* That's a Ebmm Ray with good fretwork

Edited March 13, 2015 by Horizontalste

[Funky Dunky]

Cheers! I don't actually know how to measure neck relief though. I will have to consult Google!

[Horizontalste]

Get a pencil, some feeler gauges & an elastic band.

Place the pencil over the strings at the first fret & use the elastic wrapped around the pencil & the neck to hold the E string down @ the first fret.
With the bass in the playing position hold down the E string where the body & neck join & use the feeler gauge to measure under the E @ frets 7/8&9.
I aim for 0.017 because it always works & feels comfortable but you could go for less relief if your fretwork allows.
It really is trial & error but definitely worth learning how to do it. There's nothing worse than spending £40 on a pro set up only to have the neck shift when you get home.