Manwithvan Posted August 24, 2020 Share Posted August 24, 2020 (edited) I picked this up on eBay a few years ago for not very much and it's only now that I'm finally coming to terms with 5 strings. The bass has its problems but sounds fine and I find it very comfortable to play. I spoke to RMI about it: apparently it was a one-off prototype made in China which had some issues when it arrived and they bunged in some cheap electronics to get it going. I've invested in fret-levelling, but am thinking of going further. The main issue is buzzing: I'd like to replace the electronics. The pickups sound OK, so should I just get the Wilkinson active pickup wiring kit (£65)? I generally prefer passive tone so replacing the pickups might be more sensible in the long run. I'm not sure what to fit though? The second issue is the bridge. With a straightish neck the saddles are balancing precariously at their upper limit and I'd like to take the action up further. The only solution I've come up with is this: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/5-string-Bass-guitar-bridge-BB265-chrome-black-or-gold-18mm-string-spacing/392757849119?hash=item5b72312c1f:g:wkQAAOSw2jBekVVb Thereby abandoning thru-body stringing. Is this daft or is there another solution? Opinions gratefully received. Edited August 24, 2020 by Manwithvan additional info Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
John Cribbin Posted August 25, 2020 Share Posted August 25, 2020 If you're saying that you can't raise the saddles higher because the grub screws are running out of adjustment, you can always buy some longer ones on eBay. I've replacing some of mine with stainless steel. A pack of 20 depending on length will cost no more than £2-3. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Manwithvan Posted August 25, 2020 Author Share Posted August 25, 2020 Thanks John, the saddles themselves are close to clearing their slots, and the higher saddles are being pulled forward Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DaveFry Posted August 26, 2020 Share Posted August 26, 2020 Maybe shim the whole bridge with a sheet / sheets of veneer , copper , brass , steel or something with the edges painted or stained . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Manwithvan Posted August 26, 2020 Author Share Posted August 26, 2020 Thanks DaveFry My machining capability is limited to fairly soft materials like wood, but sheets of veneer is a good idea. I may well go ahead with that Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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