The Last Bass Outpost
Gear Discussion Forums => Bill's Shop: Projects, Mods & Repairs => Topic started by: dadagoboi on August 28, 2013, 07:06:57 AM
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I have 4 builds in house at the moment, 3 JAEbirds and an NR. I figured it would make more sense to put what I'm doing in one place. Turned 67 today and trying to simplify my life. ;D
JAEbird with a '66 ThunderBucker set has become my bread and butter. 0052 is going to a retailer in Japan.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040767_zps092bca77.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040767_zps092bca77.jpg.html)
0053, a Fiesta Red JAEbird is going to Italy. Thank God for Google Translate!
0054 is going to SoCal, that's a customer supplied Novak FauxBucker. Looking forward to hearing it.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040628_zpsef92566b.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040628_zpsef92566b.jpg.html)
Ebony board and a 2+2 headstock, Scott P/G. It will fit in a standard size case and definitely NOT neck dive.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040770_zps83dd11df.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040770_zps83dd11df.jpg.html)
The build is for the original owner of what became Scott's and is now Jim's NR Fiver. He's pretty much letting me do what I want, including color. My kind of customer! Headstock shape is the first consideration. I'll be using Hipshot clovers.
Speaking of Jim, here's the bridge pup upgrade to his NR.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/NR%202012/P1040757_zps353776f3.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/NR%202012/P1040757_zps353776f3.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/NR%202012/P1040748_zps0151147a.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/NR%202012/P1040748_zps0151147a.jpg.html)
Did this for Stoney Johnstone. He owns a Fiesta Red JAEbird and I installed ThunderBuckers in 2 Jag basses for him. Sent me the MIM LPB body with Schaller bridge for the '66 set install. Cataldo neck is just for the photo.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/THUNDERBUCKER/P1040571_zps084a407f.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/THUNDERBUCKER/P1040571_zps084a407f.jpg.html)
Oh yeah. My Birthday present to me. Allparts "second" swamp ash body, Fender P MIJ "E" neck, previously black DiMarzios that I painted, Minwax white oak latex stain and 2 coats of sealer for a semi matte finish.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/JAEZZbird/P1040773_zps860fe1aa.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/JAEZZbird/P1040773_zps860fe1aa.jpg.html)
Bought the used Badass around '82 to put on my first FenderBird build. The finish took one day, I'm easy to please.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/JAEZZbird/P1040780_zpsbbfb41af.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/JAEZZbird/P1040780_zpsbbfb41af.jpg.html)
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Lots of cool projects Carlo!!! 8)
Happy Birthday!!!!
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I continue to admire your work sir. Keep it up and happy 67th!
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Thanks, guys. This is a fun way to spend my declining years!
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That reverse-neck Jazz finish is BEAUTIFUL. Fender puts out some see-through blondes that look like that every now and then.
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Happy birthday, now I have another 8 months before I catch up with you again.
Really dig the looks of the finish on your birthday J. No grain filler on this one?
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That reverse-neck Jazz finish is BEAUTIFUL. Fender puts out some see-through blondes that look like that every now and then.
Thanks, it's a very easy finish to do after a little experimenting. We moved to Florida in the fifties and that was the finish on our new oak furniture. When I started my furniture biz in the Eighties I chose ash as my standard wood because of the wild grain and it reminded me of my '55 Precision.
Happy birthday, now I have another 8 months before I catch up with you again.
Really dig the looks of the finish on your birthday J. No grain filler on this one?
Thanks, getting there is half the fun!
I no longer use grain filler on anything. With ash the water based white stain fills quite a bit but you still have some 3D with 2 sealer coats that's hard to photograph. Two heavy coats of lacquer would smooth it out pretty well but I like the semi flat look for a change. I had some pix of the body stained without any sealer but I deleted them somehow. I'll document the next one.
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Buon compleanno Carlo. Beautiful basses.
If you need help with the italian customer i'd be glad to give you a hand.
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Happy Birthday, Carlo! I'm glad your business is coming along. It ain't work if you love what you do.
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I appreciate the offer, so far so good with Google Translate. I'm a little worried if I ship my usual way, through the mail. The Italian post office has a pretty bad reputation.
That's why I've been self employed my entire life, George!
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The shed tips its hat in deepest respect...
Have many more and sell even more than that... annually... ;D
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The shed tips its hat in deepest respect...
Have many more and sell even more than that... annually... ;D
Thanks, Kenny. I thought about you when I was doing that blonde on ash.
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[shamebeonme] I was looking at her earlier today and shaking my head in disgust and I'd be lying if the thought did not cross my mind when I saw your b/d treat... my daughter did discuss using peroxide (hairdressers ;D) on the body to try a start again - I want to get on with it but several things are somewhat troublesome at present... too many stalled projects... I was only discussing the rattle-cans I've had sitting waiting for use for nearly two years now with her a couple of hours back... :rolleyes: [stillshamebeonme]
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A happy birthday to you Carlo! As always beautiful work! I should have kept that 5ver.
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The first time I did black on ash it took me forever and I still wasn't satisfied. A customer had asked me to match the black finish that Mackintosh used on his ash stuff. I never did get amount of gloss and grain visibility right. It's one of those, "a lot of prep and a one shot application" things. I think you have to sand as much as what's on that ash bass of yours as you can and then figure out what technique will work. It does take a lot of time experimenting. You'll get to it someday!
A happy birthday to you Carlo! As always beautiful work! I should have kept that 5ver.
Thanks, Scott!...no, you should have had me build you an 8er ;D
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Happy birthday Carlo - and thanks for the pictorial update!
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... You'll get to it someday!
Now all I have to figure is which one... ;)
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Happy birthday Carlo!
You have a hell of a retirement thing going!
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Hope you have/had an awesome Day!!
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Happy B-day, and great looking basses! I like that ash P/J 8)
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THANKS, GUYS!
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I'm a little worried if I ship my usual way, through the mail. The Italian post office has a pretty bad reputation.
Yes, be careful! Several years ago, I ended up with a disgruntled ebay buyer (a pair of Levis...) in Italy. Turned out they were at the post office over there for almost a month. >:(
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Yes, be careful! Several years ago, I ended up with a disgruntled ebay buyer (a pair of Levis...) in Italy. Turned out they were at the post office over there for almost a month. >:(
Will do. Not for nothing a lot of Ebayers refuse to ship to Italy!
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Happy belated Birthday Carlo. Yesterday was PETscan day for me so i was a little preoccupied.
The fiver is really sweet with the pickup addition plus the neck pup is now a 63 versus the 66 that is now in the bridge. I have always preferred the 63 and this verified that soundly ??? for me.... The bridge pup gives it some added clarity and by itself has a very nice nasally tone. This is my favorite 5 string as it just plays so easy and now sounds great.
I just started co-hosting a semi monthly open mic night blues thing in my town. Couple players were 5 string guys last time so i will have to bring the NR fiver for them to try out. Hopefully it wget you some more business.
Jim
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Happy belated Birthday Carlo. Yesterday was PETscan day for me so i was a little preoccupied.
The fiver is really sweet with the pickup addition plus the neck pup is now a 63 versus the 66 that is now in the bridge. I have always preferred the 63 and this verified that soundly ??? for me.... The bridge pup gives it some added clarity and by itself has a very nice nasally tone. This is my favorite 5 string as it just plays so easy and now sounds great.
I just started co-hosting a semi monthly open mic night blues thing in my town. Couple players were 5 string guys last time so i will have to bring the NR fiver for them to try out. Hopefully it wget you some more business.
Jim
Thanks, Jim! Hope everything went well yesterday. Look forward to hearing some Fiver player's impressions to the NR.
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Craig Pepe sent these pix. Just finished the roughs on a 12 song project, all played with his '66 ThunderBucker equipped JAEbird. No clips yet.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/st2_zps50732d80.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/st2_zps50732d80.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/st4_zpscb5db81f.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/st4_zpscb5db81f.jpg.html)
#0051 with a MAX pair goes out today, heading to Texas. Matt supplied the DR strings 45-110. I included a set of D'Addario XL 165, my standard JAEbird string, for him to try.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040787_zps2c0ee3e8.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040787_zps2c0ee3e8.jpg.html)
And last, certainly not least. Status Buzzard, just purchased by Stoney Johnstone, will be making a visit to the swamp for body repair where jack broke thru in a drunken mishap by the previous owner. Also a repaint in red with gold hardware upgrade. Looking forward to this one, all 26 frets of it!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/StoneysBuzzard_zpsbcea8602.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/StoneysBuzzard_zpsbcea8602.jpg.html)
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Finally had time to check these out. Great work as usual! Happy birthday too and many more!!!
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Thanks, Bill!
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My shop is totally torn up as i am remodeling it. Might actually build a bass this fall sometime!
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Sweet!
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Here's an update on the NR build. Headstock time!
Used my 67 EBO as a starting point
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040852_zps8f545971.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040852_zps8f545971.jpg.html)
Sticky paper on the front
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040853_zpsbb016c0b.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040853_zpsbb016c0b.jpg.html)
Trimmed
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040854_zps1cf98491.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040854_zps1cf98491.jpg.html)
Transferred
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040855_zps0a28c408.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040855_zps0a28c408.jpg.html)
Hipshots stick out farther than the original Gibsons
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040856_zps625a20dd.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040856_zps625a20dd.jpg.html)
Slightly larger to accommodate the Hipshots
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040857_zpsc442b100.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040857_zpsc442b100.jpg.html)
After some work with drill press, band saw and oscillating spindle sander.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040997_zpsd69dfac0.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040997_zpsd69dfac0.jpg.html)
Vaguely familiar but how many designs are there?
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After some work with drill press, band saw and oscillating spindle sander.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040997_zpsd69dfac0.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040997_zpsd69dfac0.jpg.html)
Now THERE is a man who knows how to install and wind strings!!! I salute you!
I actually put one wind over the strings where it comes out of the tuner cavity, but those are not going anywhere.
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Now THERE is a man who knows how to install and wind strings!!! I salute you!
I actually put one wind over the strings where it comes out of the tuner cavity, but those are not going anywhere.
Thanks! I like a lot of string on the posts. Seems like the best way to eliminate slippage, though there have been a lot of times I've had one wrap with no problem. I did have to use a string tree to get enough downward angle on the D and A, maximum wrap wasn't enough.
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Couldn't get an angled headstock?
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Couldn't get an angled headstock?
Not a problem, maybe on the next one. I preferred to use a one I'm familiar with for my first set neck.
Neck clamped to body with narrow strip that fits between A and D to check alignment with pup and bridge. Pickup over the strings goes into Korg Pandora to check intonation.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040987_zps067af8de.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040987_zps067af8de.jpg.html)
Titebond evenly applied to both neck and pocket. Clamped with a 1/8" hardboard caul that follows the curvature of the fretboard with clamp placement (at the edges of the board. Squeezeout cleaned up before it sets. I prefer iron metal clamps for this kind of application since the strongest joint is the one with the least Titebond between the pieces being joined. Can't do that with pistol type plastic clamps IMO.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040990_zps4ce2a785.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040990_zps4ce2a785.jpg.html)
Heel shaped and sanded.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050021_zpsc5204d62.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050021_zpsc5204d62.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050022_zpsa7705e14.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050022_zpsa7705e14.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050023_zps1459f75a.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050023_zps1459f75a.jpg.html)
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Looking good!
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Awesome as always ! A belated Happy Birthday!
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Looking good!
Awesome as always ! A belated Happy Birthday!
Thanks, guys, only took me 50+ basses to attempt a set neck! B'day seems like years ago.
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Nice!!! I've never done a Bolt on myself....Set necks seem easier to me...I'd Love to do a Korina/walnut Neck through 8 string T bird...
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Is this a Fender type neck joint, but glued in?
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Is this a Fender type neck joint, but glued in?
Yep, Allparts neck with adjustment at the heel. I've used around 60 in the last 3 years without a problem.
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Yep, Allparts neck with adjustment at the heel. I've used around 60 in the last 3 years without a problem.
Not questioning the Allparts neck, I know you and others have had great luck with them. Always wondered why Gibson type tenons were necessary when a glued in Fender style neck fitted closely and glued properly should be just as reliable if you want a set neck.
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I believe it's due to shear factors - the strongest points will be where it is glued at the "sides" so the more "vertical" contact points the better - Carlo will know where the grain of the wood can separate if under stress, so the choice of the body timber would need to be a more "vertical" grain to ensure this being minimised - the "Gibson" neck joint is more complex but provides greater vertical contact points so minimising these "shear" issues...
Does that sound reasonable...?
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Not questioning the Allparts neck, I know you and others have had great luck with them. Always wondered why Gibson type tenons were necessary when a glued in Fender style neck fitted closely and glued properly should be just as reliable if you want a set neck.
No tenons on EBO or EB-3 necks...or NR TBirds if I'm not mistaken. I think using neck tenons might go back to building a solid body as if it were an acoustic. "That's the way we do it around here."
I'd also wondered about tenons. IMO what was necessary on an acoustic using hide glue which fractures on the glue line might not be needed on a solid body using aliphatic resin glue which makes the glue line stronger than the wood on either side.
I strung up the bass 4 hours after I glued it up. Wearing the proper safety equipment, of course. I think it will be OK.
I believe it's due to shear factors - the strongest points will be where it is glued at the "sides" so the more "vertical" contact points the better - Carlo will know where the grain of the wood can separate if under stress, so the choice of the body timber would need to be a more "vertical" grain to ensure this being minimised - the "Gibson" neck joint is more complex but provides greater vertical contact points so minimising these "shear" issues...
Does that sound reasonable...?
It does. Rock maple has no shear problem, neither does flat grain honduras so if the surfaces are both flat there shouldn't be a problem.
What's interesting to me on a 4 (or 6) bolt neck is that the 2 screws closest to the headstock are in tension, the others in compression and not really needed with a tight neck pocket. I only use 2 on my personal NR. No perceptible difference in tone or sustain from using all six bolts. But six looks serious.
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What's interesting to me on a 4 (or 6) bolt neck is that the 2 screws closest to the headstock are in tension, the others in compression and not really needed with a tight neck pocket. I only use 2 on my personal NR. No perceptible difference in tone or sustain from using all six bolts. But six looks serious.
I read the same thing from someone, may have been Joe Veilette. His guitars and basses use a single machine bolt that's hidden under the neck strap pin. It goes into a t-nut. I don't know if the neck pocket is different in any other way. The two I've seen in person did have tight neck joints.
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Simple engineering, I guess - the fixings nearest the head are structural as it is the point of greatest force, or a pivot point - the fixings closest to the bridge are under the least tension...
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Simple engineering, I guess - the fixings nearest the head are structural as it is the point of greatest force, or a pivot point - the fixings closest to the bridge are under the least tension...
Something like that...I failed Structures when I was an Architecture student. ;D
Cataldo Basses is now on Facebook. Same crap, new address. I'd appreciate a "like" because when I get to 30 Zuckerberg gives me a million dollars and you'll all be in line for a share. I think that's the way it works...THANKS!
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Liked.
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NR's do have a tenon, although not as thin as a typical Gibson...much wider..but still a tenon.
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What about neck angle? Most Fender style necks usually have some small amount of shimming in order to get a good setup - did you route the neck pocket at an angle?
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Thanks, Andy and Dave for the FB "Like".
NR's do have a tenon, although not as thin as a typical Gibson...much wider..but still a tenon.
In effect with a tight neck pocket, especially one that's only 5/8" deep the whole thing is a tenon if properly glued...that's my story and I'm sticking to it!
What about neck angle? Most Fender style necks usually have some small amount of shimming in order to get a good setup - did you route the neck pocket at an angle?
Both my bridge and tailpiece are lower profile than Gibson's, so an angled neck pocket isn't necessary and the break angle is good. You can see that the studs hold the channel tight to the body, saddles are individually adjustable. With the strings close to the body over the pickups and the low bridge, it plays like a Fender. Some Gibsons have the strings too high off the body for my liking no matter how low the action.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/CATALDOBRIDGE_zps72aaf0bf.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/CATALDOBRIDGE_zps72aaf0bf.jpg.html)
I'm using spray on catalyzed polyester primer to fill body grain. It does a great job and is fairly economical. It takes about 6 ounces, 8 with waste to fill a body. Comes in white,black, grey and red. Has a 30 minute pot life after catalyzing with MEK. One quart=4+ bodies=<$30. I use just enough to fill the grain and then sand it back to where it's almost translucent, it doesn't shrink like lacquer primer. Here's the spray setup for it with a set neck; pull it out and flip it over for the back. Maple doesn't need filling.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050035_zps11b020fa.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050035_zps11b020fa.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050036_zpsba1b1f90.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050036_zpsba1b1f90.jpg.html)
...Thank you, Sam.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050039_zps4d083ca0.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050039_zps4d083ca0.jpg.html)
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" ...Thank you, Sam."
:mrgreen:
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The neck dots are white. They won't work with the paint scheme. I pulled them with an Exacto, most of them anyway. Also jabbed myself pretty good.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050019_zps1c011861.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050019_zps1c011861.jpg.html)
Used 1/8" drill bit to enlarge the holes, a long one to get to the end holes that are on top of the body.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050018_zpsdca8d5e0.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050018_zpsdca8d5e0.jpg.html)
Then I enlarged the holes slightly with a #30 bit. It's going to be interesting getting the new dots in. They are made of 1/8" (3mm) styrene, about twice the diameter of the originals. Paint will go to the edge of the top of the board, vintage Gibby style.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050025_zps9ba61f6f.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050025_zps9ba61f6f.jpg.html)
Would have been a lot easier if I'd done this before I set the neck. I meant to, but forgot...Geezer Dots!
Thanks to all for 'Liking' the Cataldo Basses FB page! Your checks are not in the mail.
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Liked!
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Liked!
Me 2 but are the new dots red. . . :o or is that just temporary?
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Me 2 but are the new dots red. . . :o or is that just temporary?
Those are just the holes, new dots will be black. They go in after the neck gets painted. I should have said, "will be...1/8" styrene..."
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Liked!
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Me 2 but are the new dots red. . . :o or is that just temporary?
Red dots.......like the one year only (1974) Rickenbacker 4001 basses.
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Red dots.......like the one year only (1974) Rickenbacker 4001 basses.
And I liked the FB page too!
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A lot of the primer/surfacer gets sanded off but it's pretty quick work, especially if you snort some of it.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050043_zps9090f311.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050043_zps9090f311.jpg.html)
Painting a set neck requires some gravity defying technique.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050052_zpsdb0f54c1.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050052_zpsdb0f54c1.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050050_zps314d0e2f.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050050_zps314d0e2f.jpg.html)
Thanks for the FaceBook Likes, guys. Just hit 30!
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Thanks for the FaceBook Likes, guys. Just hit 30!
I'm in!
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Liked!!
TD
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I'm in!
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Thanks, Guys!
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What's up with this guy? I doubt what he says regarding the neck pockets and finish are true. You should set him straight.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Cataldo-JAEBird-Bass-in-Fiesta-Red-Finish-Fenderbird-Bass-/171182373596?pt=Guitar&hash=item27db43badc
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What's up with this guy? I doubt what he says regarding the neck pockets and finish are true. You should set him straight.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Cataldo-JAEBird-Bass-in-Fiesta-Red-Finish-Fenderbird-Bass-/171182373596?pt=Guitar&hash=item27db43badc
It's an early bass, probably one of the first 10 made...price was $595 delivered. Neck was done the early Fender way, lacquered and then dressed, leaving lacquer on the sides of the frets. First I've heard that the guy wasn't happy. Worst thing about that bass is the John Boehner orange neck job. Doesn't make a lot of sense to trash something you're trying to sell. Even JohnK didn't do that when he was selling his JAEbird body (he kept the neck).
I DO spend a lot more time on the basses these days, this bass costs $1495 including case and shipping in the US, going to Italy this week. Bridge /Tailpiece are vastly improved, etc. I have satisfied customers these days, I'll survive. Thanks for the heads up!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050090_zps06812c2d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050090_zps06812c2d.jpg.html)
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The Ebay JAEbird went for $1275 plus $55 for shipping.
Here's the set neck NR, now Polaris White. Buffing, assembly and set up are next.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050112_zps528024e5.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050112_zps528024e5.jpg.html)
It's about an inch shorter than a JAEbird judging by how it fits in a standard Cataldo case. It will get a mod to keep the 'bird from moving.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050118_zps7be6643e.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050118_zps7be6643e.jpg.html)
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Mudbird? :)
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That white NR looks so SWEET! Love it. Reminds me of something ;) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v102/godofthunder59/JOHNNYSMOKEBuffaloNYwaterfront8-19-13144.jpg)
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Mudbird? :)
It's a Curtis Novak FakeBucker. Sounds sorta Fender-ish. Customer supplied it. It's way underwound with heavier wire compared to a mudbucker. "Polepieces" are fake, do absolutely nothing to affect sound and you can't angle the pickup height to compensate for the greater power of the E and A strings. In short, it's a perfect replacement!
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That white NR looks so SWEET! Love it. Reminds me of something ;)
Except the pup screws on that DiMarzio do something!
Pretty happy with the way the side dots came out. They're the same size as my S.D. Curlee which doesn't have face dots. Given the choice I'd take big side dots over face dots.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050129_zpsc3df625a.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050129_zpsc3df625a.jpg.html)
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Geeze Carlo that is one beautiful bass. Those early Cataldos were a bargain, I don't know what that guy was whining about. It's great that you have built up your business and that you enjoy a well deserved good reputation.
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Thanks, Scott! I really appreciate the praise.
I cranked out 25 or so basses the first year. This year the goal was 10, I'll be there once this one ships. I've probably spent close to the same amount of time on those 10 as I did on the first 25. I've learned a lot and looking forward to doing some more set necks. BTW, this one is going to the guy who bought the first NR Fiver you owned for a while. He pretty much let me do what I want including set neck, color and 2+2 headstock.
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If that fiver was a fourbanger I would have kept it no question! If I couldn't warm up to a NR fiver I ain't never gunna!
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Now With NECKBOLT BEGONE
LOL!
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Pretty happy with the way the side dots came out. They're the same size as my S.D. Curlee which doesn't have face dots. Given the choice I'd take big side dots over face dots.
I like the large side dots. I'm old and blind. Sometimes, if I'm under red stage lights, the ones on my Ric disappear. :-\ I played a Modulus for a while with no fingerboard dots. I thought it would drive me nuts, but I mostly didn't miss them at all. But I do like the way they look versus no dots.
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Really nice basses Carlos.
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Thanks, John!
Strung up and hung up. Haven't wired in the pickup, still have to buff out the paint. The action is low and buzz free even though I haven't done a fret dress yet. Acoustic tone is great, tempted to say the set neck is responsible. Weight is 7.4 lbs.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050142_zps82fa3e42.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050142_zps82fa3e42.jpg.html)
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If the buyer backs out I got first dibs! ;D
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If the buyer backs out I got first dibs! ;D
;D ;D...just received final payment. Maybe I'll build one on spec and see if you can resist!
Time to make more tug bars. These will be "ebonized", a fancy name for black stain, like the maple one on the right. I rough shape a 1.5" block of mahogany and slice to width on the bandsaw.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050134_zps04552960.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050134_zps04552960.jpg.html)
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Supposedly black walnut ebonizes very well too.
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Supposedly black walnut ebonizes very well too.
Ebonized ash is a great look, really 3D.
0054 buffed and loaded.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050164_zps3ad7719d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050164_zps3ad7719d.jpg.html)
Alternate Universe. I don't really care for the sound of the Novak pickup, mostly low mids and not much else. Since it's not adjustable there's really no way to tell if getting it closer to the strings would help. My rule is if you can't EQ a good sound with a B-15, it ain't happening. If I build another it will look like this. ThunderBucker magnets are around a half inch longer with a much wider magnetic field.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050276_zps7a67d0f4.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050276_zps7a67d0f4.jpg.html)
Look Ma, NO BOLTS!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050291_zpsf70422f9.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050291_zpsf70422f9.jpg.html)
Heads Up.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050172_zps4de136d8.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050172_zps4de136d8.jpg.html)
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They are so beautiful! I will use them as inspiration when applying my first polaris white finish during the christmas holidays!
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dadagoboi- How much would you charge for one of those ebony tug bars?
I see them on Ebay from time to time for $29.99 plus shipping and handling which I can never justify spending for a little piece of wood. I know people have to make their money and all but that's a bit much in my opinion.
I was thinking something more along the lines of $10 after shipping but is that crazy low?
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dadagoboi- How much would you charge for one of those ebony tug bars?
I see them on Ebay from time to time for $29.99 plus shipping and handling which I can never justify spending for a little piece of wood. I know people have to make their money and all but that's a bit much in my opinion.
I was thinking something more along the lines of $10 after shipping but is that crazy low?
Whenever I can't afford something I make it myself or do without. To me that doesn't mean it's worth any less. If I were making them in quantity I'd price them accordingly, but each one is in effect a custom job. Since they're NOT ebony they have to be stained and finished individually. It really takes more time than it's worth. Sorry.
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Coming up: ExplorerBird in Tobacco Sunburst with gold hardware.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050304_zps05b75ae1.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050304_zps05b75ae1.jpg.html)
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:popcorn:
I keep getting tempted to see if it is possible to visit PT and see if he would let me check out his white PC... local enough...
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Worth a try!
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0055, gets a '63 Thunderbucker neck pickup. Customer is the guy who sent me a pic of Tom Petersen's '64 a while back. Color will be ebony with matching headstock.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050311_zps4279219a.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050311_zps4279219a.jpg.html)
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Done, weighs 8.2 pounds and I love the way it sounds! Going to Mark's neck o' the woods, Bremerton, WA.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050371_zps7b4e506d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050371_zps7b4e506d.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050361_zps0080af14.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050361_zps0080af14.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050393_zpse633bfa4.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050393_zpse633bfa4.jpg.html)
#0056 with rough set up and ready for finishing. I decided to use an ebony board Jazz neck after the rosewood one I ordered came in looking stripey.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050411_zpsb5ccdfd6.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050411_zpsb5ccdfd6.jpg.html)
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Yet again a gorgeous black fin... what's the fin for the Explorer scheduled to be...?
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Thanks, Kenny.
The Ebird will be a Tobacco Sunburst. Up until last night with gold hardware...that may be changed to nickel.
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Yep, going to be sunburst with nickel. I'll save these pups for something else.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/P1050423_zpsa44446cb.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/P1050423_zpsa44446cb.jpg.html)
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This body will be black so I decided to use it for a sunburst test for the ExplorerBird. I didn't do ANY sanding at all. Shot Yellow toner, then red, then black, then clear, all in about 15 minutes. I just wanted to see how even I could get it. Black needs to be thinned more, too difficult to control. But overall I think it's pretty close. I'll probably do one more test before the actual EBird.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050490_zps7d04eff6.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050490_zps7d04eff6.jpg.html)
I'm bringing back the Max with a more trad TBird emphasis, sort of a Studio. No raised center but great upper fret access and will fit in a standard gig bag or case. Paper 'pickguard' needs a slight trim.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050485-002_zps459cdb2b.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050485-002_zps459cdb2b.jpg.html)
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the burst looks nice! :toast:
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The Max looks nice! One well placed pickup...good.
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my 2 pickup max looks fine to me. I just like the look of any birds with only one pup....
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Thanks, Guys!
Unleashing the inner beast, er, burst.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050500_zpsf7ad575b.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050500_zpsf7ad575b.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050506_zpscc555fac.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050506_zpscc555fac.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050518_zpsf9d50517.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050518_zpsf9d50517.jpg.html)
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That's pretty!! That bridge pickup has a lot of bite!!!!
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Damn dude, you NEVER disappoint! Looking good...
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I like the Max a lot! Upper register access always gets my attention ;D
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That burst is very tasty. Pure class.
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Still my favorite finish and you really did it up nice Carlo! I'm looking forward to spring and using my new spray rig. No more cans for me!
Say, what's your paint application routine/products these days?
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very tasty SB. maybe a new finish for my 76 is i order when (if :-() i ever get a job
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Gorgeous...
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Thanks for all the kind words, guys!
I'm still using Mohawk products, Bill. But I've started using TCP catalyzed automotive polyester primer under solid colors. It builds and fills great. I've also used Reranch for some color coats, I take the paint out of the rattlecan and put it in the gun. But I'm switching to buying quarts of acrylic lacquer from TCP global. Each quart will color coat at least 10 basses and they'll mix any color ever used on a car. I expect to have a lot of leftover paint. I basically have an up charge that covers the cost of the custom color which varies between $50 and $100. Reds are the most expensive, generally.
The sunburst was done on natural mahogany, so it's only one color step. I mixed a burgundy/brown dye from red, yellow, and blue ultra penetrating stain and shot it with my regular gun, only with low pressure and tight round pattern. Here's a how to from Youtube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oc8j3CFz70I
I used a turntable with the bass flat and did one side then the other.
There can be a pretty steep learning curve. I suggest you convince Scott to give you some tips! Preparation of the body is 90% of getting a great finish with the least amount of effort.
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My work is nowhere near yours Carlo.
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My work is nowhere near yours Carlo.
Thanks for the compliment, Scott, but I remember how baffled I was with just the basic gun controls when I started. It would have helped a lot to have somebody demonstrate that stuff, it does take a while to master. I don't think you can learn the fine line between a great wet coat and a mess without sanding some runs.
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www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxuThNgl3YA
Sorry... couldn't resist... ;)
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Blocked and Bound for Barstow.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050545_zpsed6734fc.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050545_zpsed6734fc.jpg.html)
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Sketasnögg, as we Swedes tend to put it! Or, if you prefare: Fuggin' beauttifulll!
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You're putting a black pickguard on that one, right? ;)
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You're putting a black pickguard on that one, right? ;)
Yep!
Here's the EBird in a Dean case. It's huge but the Epi Explorer cases are no longer available. This one doesn't require any mods. I used an Ebony board neck after I received one with a stripey rosewood board I didn't want to use with a 'burst. Body gets buffed and bass assembled tomorrow. This is closer to the true color.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050547_zpsb2ccb95e.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050547_zpsb2ccb95e.jpg.html)
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Sketasnögg, as we Swedes tend to put it! Or, if you prefare: Fuggin' beauttifulll!
Or ´dødsfet ´like we say in Norway :)
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Thanks for the language lessons, guys!
Buffed and ready to rock.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050565_zps96f97aef.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050565_zps96f97aef.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050564_zps6336bb3f.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050564_zps6336bb3f.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050574_zps88bfbac8.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050574_zps88bfbac8.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050605_zpsda1d40fe.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050605_zpsda1d40fe.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050590_zps751c9109.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050590_zps751c9109.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050586_zpsf6417b56.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050586_zpsf6417b56.jpg.html)
Lens flare was a happy accident. Here's my photo setup. Bright sun in the shade of my portable garage.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050583_zps99889c3a.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050583_zps99889c3a.jpg.html)
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Damn that turned out beautiful!!!!!!!!!!
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Awesome looking work there and more Cataldo trees too.
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Beautiful as always!
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As above... can't add any more... 8)
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It reminds me of the explorer-bird Entwistle played on the "Who Are You" bit of The Kids Are Allright. Only much prettier.
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It reminds me of the explorer-bird Entwistle played on the "Who Are You" bit of The Kids Are Allright. Only much prettier.
One of these maybe?
The 'PukeBurst"
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/P1010810_zps79a0a679.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/P1010810_zps79a0a679.jpg.html)
or this one.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/P1010811_zps7087dda1.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/P1010811_zps7087dda1.jpg.html)
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Blocked and Bound for Barstow.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050545_zpsed6734fc.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050545_zpsed6734fc.jpg.html)
The anticipation is killing me!! :mrgreen:
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One of these maybe?
Neither, I think, unless one got refinished, which is quite possible. This one, has a flat finish:
(http://www.thewho.net/whotabs/images/equipment/bass/1978_studio_explorerbird.jpg)
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Neither, I think, unless one got refinished, which is quite possible. This one, has a flat finish:
(http://www.thewho.net/whotabs/images/equipment/bass/1978_studio_explorerbird.jpg)
That was the only one in JAE's possession when he died. Gloss Fiesta Red finish, his favorite color. It's in the Bass Culture book. As far as I can tell, at least 3 ExplorerBirds were built, all with slightly different cutaways
I built Mike Conte this replica and am building another for Russ Somers. That will be the fourth one so far.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2013%20ExplorerBird/MIkenEBird_zpsf7906dcb.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2013%20ExplorerBird/MIkenEBird_zpsf7906dcb.jpg.html)
The anticipation is killing me!! :mrgreen:
Just waiting on the pickups, Todd!
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liam neeson plays bass? who knew. :o
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There's a white one in Pete Townsend's studio too... PC built the originals...
www.youtube.com/watch?v=WAzLAYGZCGg
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There's a white one in Pete Townsend's studio too... PC built the originals...
www.youtube.com/watch?v=WAzLAYGZCGg
Right, Kenny. Forgot about that one!
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All we know is that he built around 50 customs, and if you try and figure from Eric's notes, and what we've seen in images, it's about covered...
One of the most exotic must be the double Firebirds, and we know he made two, all JAE's stuff, and the handful of others...
Four Explorers for definite... PT's, the two at HR, and the red one is who knows where...
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and the red one is who knows where...
Was it sold at auction? It and Pete's look like twins.
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No confirmation here on the orange Explorerbird, but an interesting read...
http://www.popmatters.com/review/entwistle-john-030513/
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Thanks, Tom!
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Was it sold at auction? It and Pete's look like twins.
Not sure, but iirc the white one has chrome/nickel (?) parts and the red/orange has gold parts...
Nice article, Tom...
I'm presently reviewing this monster list... (http://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2003/the-john-entwistle-collection-w03875/lot.1.html)
Interesting items imho are lots 44, 69, 71, 81, 89, 123, 136, 168, 180, 194, 196 (the red PC; the only PC on sale that day), 198, 212, 219, 226, 227, 229, 243 ("Gibson Discoverer" bass), 258 (Ned Callen 6 string bass), 277/8 & 367 (original "Detours" posters), 341, 346 (flock of Buzzards), 353... 386 items all together; some quite bizarre ones...
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This one gets the full JAE Gold/Fiesta Red treatment. Finally installed Photoshop on my current computer. Beats the crap out of Picassa for manipulating images even though it's a 2003 release.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0060/P1050665P_zps8efab97e.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0060/P1050665P_zps8efab97e.jpg.html)
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#0056 on the way today. Thanks, Todd!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050633P_zps983ecfdb.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050633P_zps983ecfdb.jpg.html)
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Thank you, Carlo!
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Was it sold at auction? It and Pete's look like twins.
Sorry Carlo... forgot to note it but the red one was sold at that auction for circa £12,000 - it is one of those page numbers I noted, I think...
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Sorry Carlo... forgot to note it but the red one was sold at that auction for circa £12,000 - it is one of those page numbers I noted, I think...
#196, 12k. Almost everything that was in the bass culture book is there, plus 2 Status Buzzards and others, great stuff!
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It's just unbelievable to look through...
Just keep flying the flag, Sir...! ;)
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Brace of birds bound for Hamburg, my first sale to Germany. The REV will be Ebony. The JAEbird, Polaris White.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/1050720_zpseb9a5b49.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/1050720_zpseb9a5b49.jpg.html)
No slop in these neck pockets.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/1050721_zps49799431.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/1050721_zps49799431.jpg.html)
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Has Uwe succumbed to one yet...?
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Has Uwe succumbed to one yet...?
Not unless he's changed his name to Uli, moved to Hamburg and joined Rudolph Rock & die Schocker.
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It's only ............ that far on the map... ;)
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Kool! The Fatherland succumbs! :vader: American superiority wins again.
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Kool! The Fatherland succumbs! :vader: American superiority wins again.
As a buddy said when I told him about the order, "Yeah, they can still afford to buy stuff."
This one's going to Boston, #0059. Customer wanted 'Cadillac Green', a color my brother had on his hollowbody Gretsch in the mid 60s. The original was NOT metallic but the reissues are. We decided to go old school. It will have a tort guard and two stacked pots. Bridge pickup is moved farther south than on a TBird so Steve is winding something hotter for that position.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050739_zps611b224d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050739_zps611b224d.jpg.html)
Headstock has been buffed, body hasn't.
Using British Racing Green acrylic lacquer. Requires buffing but goes on really smooth.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050744_zps344f7b6e.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050744_zps344f7b6e.jpg.html)
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NICE!!!!
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That body shape is great and it's my favorite bass style of yours!
Heh, the best part about this build is that you're working out auto paint formulations before doing my NR II. Yes, it's selfish! :)
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I like the color too. Is that a one your standard necks? I'm struck by how nice the rosewood looks on it.
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That body shape is great and it's my favorite bass style of yours!
Heh, the best part about this build is that you're working out auto paint formulations before doing my NR II. Yes, it's selfish! :)
Got the clearcoat yesterday. Will probably shoot an inverness body in the next week or so to make sure I know what I'm doing.
I like the color too. Is that a one your standard necks? I'm struck by how nice the rosewood looks on it.
Yep, direct from Allparts, the stripes are subtle. I think it will look even better once it's cleaned and lemon oiled.
Customer wants a tort headstock plate to match the guard. Problem is, tort doesn't come that thin. Here's my solution. I took a picture of the tort blank with my trusty Lumix LX-5. Put in some Photoshop time and came up with this jpeg. Took it to my local copy shop along with a white vinyl 8.5 x 11 sticker sheet. Color laser print cost 39 cents.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/HeadstockPlatecopy_zps50804694.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/HeadstockPlatecopy_zps50804694.jpg.html)
Then I cut out a plate from .02 lexan, stuck on the vinyl, trimmed to size and clearcoated with lacquer. It's a very close match to the actual tort. Plus now I can do white on black plates for my other basses. I still love those cheap tricks!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/TortPlate_zpsbbcb2194.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/TortPlate_zpsbbcb2194.jpg.html)
Also shipped #0058 to North Hollywood while I was at the copy shop.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050751PS_zps7e64ba0c.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050751PS_zps7e64ba0c.jpg.html)
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Good grief... shades of Ampeg... ;)
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#0059. Raw neck back per customer request. ThunderBucker "S" in bridge position.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050776P_zpsd7fd5b4e.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050776P_zpsd7fd5b4e.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/headstocklogo_zpsf5682f10.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/headstocklogo_zpsf5682f10.jpg.html)
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Beautiful! Well done!
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Amen brother!
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Thanks, guys!
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So beautiful! If I could afford it right now, I would be on it!!! But so many pickups? Half of them would be enough! A real beauty!
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Thanks, Stojfon...I draw the line at two! Those are dummies put in for the photos. The real ones arrived today. I'm looking forward to hearing the "S" in the modded bridge position.
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That's really quite effective...
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That's a great color! Beautiful.
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Love this thread!
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Love this thread!
+1 :popcorn:
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I want to thank you guys for all the encouragement and inspiration. I'm beginning a lot of sanding and painting that will take up the next month or so. EBird42, JAEbird42, REV42, MAX Special and MAX41
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1050789P_zpsd1facb43.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1050789P_zpsd1facb43.jpg.html)
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So... what you doin' after lunch ... ? :mrgreen:
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Sanded to 180/240, taped, and ready to be shot. The eyes have it.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1050792_zpse96b4bd9.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1050792_zpse96b4bd9.jpg.html)
Polyester primer and MEK. About $40 a quart which will do about five bodies. Pot life is 35 minutes after adding MEK, then you run the risk of it solidifying in the gun. Basically it's spray on Bondo.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1050806_zps03deaa9c.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1050806_zps03deaa9c.jpg.html)
All primed, Ebird topcoated and curing. One of those white ones is going to be Inverness Green. I'm making progress, Denis!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1050805_zps10d48a47.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1050805_zps10d48a47.jpg.html)
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#0059. Raw neck back per customer request. ThunderBucker "S" in bridge position.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050776P_zpsd7fd5b4e.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050776P_zpsd7fd5b4e.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/headstocklogo_zpsf5682f10.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/headstocklogo_zpsf5682f10.jpg.html)
concentric pots or no tone??? that is great color. one of these days i NEED to get back on the cataldo customer list. promised myself no more basses until i get a job.....
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concentric pots or no tone???
Stacked pots. The bass sounds killer with the S in the slightly closer to the bridge position. A 220K resistor on each stack makes the two pickups completely independent from each other. I'm going to try something similar on a V V T setup
Jim, it's great to see you checking in. I hope you're feeling healthy.
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Sweet!
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under different circumstances i would by a cataldo bass just because they are the prettiest guitars i have ever seen. amazing every time!
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Gets better every time!
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Looks like a production environment! ;)
Does the catalyzed primer self level or do you need to block it?
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Looks like a production environment! ;)
Does the catalyzed primer self level or do you need to block it?
Yeah, as close as I'm going to get to a production line
It levels well. I block sand with 320 no-fil (white silicon carbide) paper. Sands extremely easily, exactly like lacquer primer surfacer. A 4"x5" quarter sheet will prep one body. The main advantage is once it cures there's no further shrinkage, unlike lacquer sanding sealer. Since it's made for automotive use it's ready to be top coated in hours, not days.
Initially I was concerned about using the right amount of hardener for a small amount of paint but now have it at 80 drops per 6 ounces of primer. The instructions say "use one bottle per quart". I started off marking lines on the bottle approximately quartering that (for 8 ounces). As I realized I was wasting a lot of paint I started counting the drops.
The black body was done with the 80 drops for 6 ounces. I put a LOT of primer on the body and still ended up with around a 1/2 ounce. So the next one will be 5 ounces of primer and 65 drops.
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Black and white and red all over. I was lucky to get this paint run done before the summer monsoon arrived yesterday.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1050837P_zps98b25bd8.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1050837P_zps98b25bd8.jpg.html)
ExplorerBird ships Monday if the creek don't rise.
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a russian newspaper!
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:mrgreen:
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like
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My Sunday project was finishing my original MAX Special prototype in Inverness Green. The newfangled acrylic lacquer requires shooting color and clearcoats in no more than a 24 hour period. Came out pretty good. I used it over the poly primer. There are two dime sized holes that were plugged, one in the side and one in the back where I was messing around with recessed strap locks. So far so good, no telegraphing.
Since I was shipping the ExplorerBird today I got a picture of the pointy and the curvy together. Feista Red vs Inverness poly, Ford vs GM!
The Special is for sale. Artec pickups with nickel covers, 21 fret reverse headstock Eden neck with geezer dots, quick release bridge, 9 lbs. $795 with case shipped in the US.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050954P_zpsb7a4571a.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050954P_zpsb7a4571a.jpg.html)
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That MAX Special sure looks nice in Inverness. I'm sure the Explorer is fine too but I'm not a fan of pointy or red items.
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That MAX Special sure looks nice in Inverness.
I'll say!
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I'm really liking the reverse version of your headstock - especially as it relates to your truss rod cover. I love the green as well I really like that color of red but, like Dave, I'm just not a fan of pointy stuff.
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I'm really liking the reverse version of your headstock - especially as it relates to your truss rod cover.
Thanks,I'm digging it too, came out better than I thought it would. Especially since that version of the headstock is a little different from the current one. That trussrod cover is a laser copy on plain paper. I'll use it as the template for the plastic one.
Did a neck adjustment, very happy with the Eden trussrod after 2 plus years on the job. Leveled the frets and got the action down to <3/32" E string at the 12th fret.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0060/P1050958P_zps1249ff2b.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0060/P1050958P_zps1249ff2b.jpg.html)
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That color is going to look so good on my NR!
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$795 how could anyone go wrong?
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$795 how could anyone go wrong?
I dunno...when you compare it to what you can buy new it may not be 'Special' enough. I'm trying to build an affordable bass compared to the rest of my line which now averages around $1600. That means less expensive parts and less time in the build.
Specifications so far:
'Slab' body, no belly cut or arm contour. 4 bolt neck plate, non contoured heel attachment, less expensive tuners. Artec pups, import bridge. Eden 21 fret neck. I'm shooting for $895 production price shipped w/case in USA.
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Bye, Bye, Birdie!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0060/P1060010P_zpsb2d82131.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0060/P1060010P_zpsb2d82131.jpg.html)
I sold my Hamer 12er so I decided to build one. Warmoth ebony on birdseye maple 22 fret fiver neck, 1 3/8" alder body. 34" scale. Should weigh around 9+ lbs when it's finished. Body is about the same size as my Grabber with bulked up horns and butt. Shape reminds me a bit of a 4005.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060140P_zps995696fc.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060140P_zps995696fc.jpg.html)
build thread here:
http://www.talkbass.com/threads/12-string.1078138/
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Beautiful bird!
The 12er shape reminds me more of the early Rickenbacker Combo guitars.
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Thanks, Dave. Just checked out the 'Combos', I can see the similarity. Nothing new under the sun!
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Strung up with dummy pups. Weighs 9 lbs, balances and fits in one of my standard cases with room to spare even before trimming the headstock. Shorter than a JAEbird 4.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060151P_zps5a71e225.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060151P_zps5a71e225.jpg.html)
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I went with Grabber type contours and the color is going to be a transparent Butterscotch Blonde/TV Yellow. First attempt is close but a little blotchy. Have to sand it back and try again.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060198_zpsffc10c0d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060198_zpsffc10c0d.jpg.html)
I also got an order from a customer who wants one of these. But with a single ThunderBucker and a Cataldo headstock. I'm also going to build myself one while I'm at it with two single coils.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/P1050327_zpsf19ed32d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/P1050327_zpsf19ed32d.jpg.html)
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Scale...?
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Scale...?
34, both the 12er and the Phantom. I wouldn't mind building a 32" 12er but 30 is too short IMO.
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Latest JAEbird ready to go. Reverse tuners and '64 logo headstock.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0060/P1060221P_zps78382346.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0060/P1060221P_zps78382346.jpg.html)
The alder 12er body is finished.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060265P_zpsdc4266ca.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060265P_zpsdc4266ca.jpg.html)
Vintage tint on birdseye maple.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060257_zps8c096cbe.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060257_zps8c096cbe.jpg.html)
Geezer dots and a flying foam Explorer.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060267P_zps11a56dda.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060267P_zps11a56dda.jpg.html)
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That neck looks great! Like the geezer dots...
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Nice job on the butterscotch blond finish. It's nice to see even the subtle grain of Alder can look good in that kind of transparent look. Sweet high gloss you've achieved too.
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That neck looks great! Like the geezer dots...
Thanks, Tom! As far as I can tell the neck had been languishing in the Warmoth 'showcase' since 2011 when I came across it. It was designated as a LH neck, even though it was a paddlehead. Probably due to the side dots being on that side. Anyway it cost me a third of what a custom spec'd one would have. Birdseye shaft, black ebony board, stainless 6105 frets. I have to say, Warmoth builds a great neck, except for the weight
I have a Carvin Fiver neck on order for the next 12er which will probably be a MAX body if I can get it to balance. The Carvin neck should be lighter and it will be interesting to see if it will take that much tension.
Yeah, geezer dots, poor man's LEDs...and they're passive!
Nice job on the butterscotch blond finish. It's nice to see even the subtle grain of Alder can look good in that kind of transparent look. Sweet high gloss you've achieved too.
Thanks, Ari. The inspiration was partly my Hamer Cruise, it's alder so I knew it could be done.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Hamer%20Cruise/P1010121.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Hamer%20Cruise/P1010121.jpg.html)
I haven't color sanded the 12er yet, then it will really glow. The blonde stain even works on maple:
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060254_zps004845c3.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060254_zps004845c3.jpg.html)
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That shade looks better on alder than on ash.
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Done except for color sanding/buffing and setup tweaks. 9.5 lbs. Balances well on strap and knee.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060334P_zps20ccf5d4.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060334P_zps20ccf5d4.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060350P_zps4620dbbd.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060350P_zps4620dbbd.jpg.html)
Two pickup/stack pots
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060326P_zps287ebc9d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060326P_zps287ebc9d.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060352P_zps0e9bec70.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060352P_zps0e9bec70.jpg.html)
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Cavern Club+1
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/CavernClubSpacing_zps1ad45f39.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/CavernClubSpacing_zps1ad45f39.jpg.html)
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Hang on a mo' ... have I missed a build...?
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Hang on a mo' ... have I missed a build...?
No, just some cheap tricks.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060391P_zps7fa71043.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060391P_zps7fa71043.jpg.html)
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Dammit! Trees and all! 8) 8) 8)
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Done except for color sanding/buffing and setup tweaks. 9.5 lbs. Balances well on strap and knee.
That's cool. The edges look to have an angle to them, not entirely unlike an SG / EB0 / EB3, but more subtle? it's hard to be sure from the pics.
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That's cool. The edges look to have an angle to them, not entirely unlike an SG / EB0 / EB3, but more subtle? it's hard to be sure from the pics.
Thanks! Pretty much the same as my Grabber, which is similar to SG/EBO contour. Haven't been able to catch the light to show it off as well as this shot. A lot of routing and rasping involved.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060155P_zpsc0009f9d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060155P_zpsc0009f9d.jpg.html)
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That catches it well. That's nice!
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Thanks!
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Phew... I thought I was having a "senior"... ;)
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That catches it well. That's nice!
Agree! Has the best of both there.
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Thanks, guys! I'm really happy with this one so far. I like the looks, playability and sound...and that I got it done. Probably never would have built it if I hadn't sold my Hamer. Looking forward to building another.
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MAX Special, barely visible, and REV42 living in the high rent district of Hamburg.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/JAEZZbird/Basses218-001_zps1c574c0e.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/JAEZZbird/Basses218-001_zps1c574c0e.jpg.html)
This one will be going there, too...once it actually exists.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/JAEZZbird/RudolfRockSignature_zps98fd2c7f.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/JAEZZbird/RudolfRockSignature_zps98fd2c7f.jpg.html)
Building these things in PhotoShop is a lot quicker than RealShop. Color will be Cardinal Red. Body will be basswood or maple to get more top end sizzle and bridge pup may move closer to the bridge. Neck dive not a problem with strap at 11th fret.
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No, just some cheap tricks.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060391P_zps7fa71043.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060391P_zps7fa71043.jpg.html)
Very nice. :mrgreen:
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Very nice. :mrgreen:
I love how this one turned out!
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Thanks, guys! I'm digging it. Sounds great and plays really well but my fingers are getting old. Time to trade them in for a new set.
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Here's one of the Phantom IV clones I'm building. High Mass bridge, ThunderBucker 'S' and ebony board. Rotosound PSD strings.
Weight 8.5 lbs, no neck dive!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060672P_zpsb89ce8cd.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060672P_zpsb89ce8cd.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060694P_zpsb81d0879.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060694P_zpsb81d0879.jpg.html)
Case by Flambeau, it's a double scoped gun case.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/Phantomcasecomp_zpsc97f3e9f.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/Phantomcasecomp_zpsc97f3e9f.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060677P_zps793819b0.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060677P_zps793819b0.jpg.html)
The next one is a closer replica of the original, 2 pickup with bridge cover, Vox style headstock, wacky switch, etc. I'll keep that one and possibly sell my original. They're getting pricey.
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Looking good Carlo!!
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That Phantom is really nice.
I like the neck too. The only one I have ever played belonged to a friend in the late 60's early 70's and even for a C Neck Pbass played the neck was GIANT
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Sure looks sharp with that ebony board and black guard.
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Thanks, guys! Originally the customer ordered it in black with white guard then changed it. I agree with you Dave, ebony board really looks good. Especially since Allparts stopped using abalone dots on their ebony necks.
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Beautiful!!!!!
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Beautiful workmanship as usual... the Vox inst's have never been my cup of tea, mind you...
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Nice bass! I love the humbucker in there. My first bass was a gawdawful Vox MarkIV teardrop that sounded so bad, I chiseled out the route for the bridge pickup and put a Gibson mini-humbucker in. It still didn't help the Louisville Slugger neck. :o
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Here's the second Phantom clone and my original side by side. They both weigh 9.2 lbs and balance great. Steve of ThunderBucker Ranch made the repro bridge cover. Seymour Duncan single coil Precision pups are inside the covers I scratch built from modelers' styrene sheet. Allparts rosewood board P width paddle head neck, hipshot ultralites.
The 'toilet handle' is connected to a blend pot, there's quite a bit of tone variation from it, much more than a 3 position switch. The VOX has a 2 position switch, bridge OR neck. On the one I played in the 70s I added 2 more pots and bypassed it.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/PhantomComparo4_zps58e5eeb3.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/PhantomComparo4_zps58e5eeb3.jpg.html)
Sound is pretty close to the original. I have an old set of Bass Burners on the Vox and a fresh set of EXL170 on the clone so it's not a fair comparison. The bridges are threaded saddle on both, VOX copied Fender but with narrower spacing. I like the wider spacing on the clone, the strings on the Vox are really close to the board edge on the upper frets, there's very little taper to the neck.
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Looks good Carlo!! I like the extra touch of the "Cat" logo on the pickguard where it would have said Vox.
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MMmmmmmmm....tasty!
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That is too cool. Very nice work.
You're gonna make me cave if you end up building a Constellation or Stinger clone :mrgreen:
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That is too cool. Very nice work.
You're gonna make me cave if you end up building a Constellation or Stinger clone :mrgreen:
Thanks!
You're safe, you can buy an original Stinger or Constellation for less than it would cost for me to build you one. That would have been the same for Phantoms a few years ago but the Brit ones have gotten pricey.
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Nice work as usual!
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Thanks, Bill!
Here's the three hour total time refin I did yesterday to a metallic silver Squier body for a long time customer. Scuff sanded with 320/400, shot with arctic white ACRYLIC lacquer, 3 coats in 15 minutes. Waited 30 minutes and shot with 3 coats of clear. It was completely dry by this AM. No buffing or polishing necessary. It will go out Monday. That's the advantage of using modern automotive products. Proper prep and good gun technique and it's done.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060761_zps694c018e.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060761_zps694c018e.jpg.html)
I'm pretty sure it was done the same way in the Indonesian Squier factory. The silver was high gloss but very thin over polyester primer. No buffing makes for a less labor intensive finish.
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Thanks, Bill!
Here's the three hour total time refin I did yesterday to a metallic silver Squier body for a long time customer. Scuff sanded with 320/400, shot with arctic white ACRYLIC lacquer, 3 coats in 15 minutes. Waited 30 minutes and shot with 3 coats of clear. It was completely dry by this AM. No buffing or polishing necessary. It will go out Monday. That's the advantage of using modern automotive products. Proper prep and good gun technique and it's done.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060761_zps694c018e.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060761_zps694c018e.jpg.html)
I'm pretty sure it was done the same way in the Indonesian Squier factory. The silver was high gloss but very thin over polyester primer. No buffing makes for a less labor intensive finish.
Nice, if I do a spray/solid finish, the auto stuff would be my choice! Can't beat that!
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Thanks, Bill!
Here's the three hour total time refin I did yesterday to a metallic silver Squier body for a long time customer. Scuff sanded with 320/400, shot with arctic white ACRYLIC lacquer, 3 coats in 15 minutes. Waited 30 minutes and shot with 3 coats of clear. It was completely dry by this AM. No buffing or polishing necessary. It will go out Monday. That's the advantage of using modern automotive products. Proper prep and good gun technique and it's done.
I'm pretty sure it was done the same way in the Indonesian Squier factory. The silver was high gloss but very thin over polyester primer. No buffing makes for a less labor intensive finish.
So, I could use the clear acrylic lacquer over my stained bodies and have less sanding/buffing? Does it also fill grain better?
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So, I could use the clear acrylic lacquer over my stained bodies and have less sanding/buffing? Does it also fill grain better?
You could probably use it over stained bodies but it has very little filling properties. On solid color finishes it works very well over polyester primer surfacer which is auto industry stuff, basically spray on bondo.
On stained or natural wood I use 2 coats of industrial (lacquer) sanding sealer sanded between coats and 3 coats of acrylic or nitro lacquer.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/S%20D%20Curlee/P1040095.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/S%20D%20Curlee/P1040095.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1050574-001_zps3b5f3125.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1050574-001_zps3b5f3125.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/0050/P1040561_zps1498fdb3.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/0050/P1040561_zps1498fdb3.jpg.html)
You might consider doing your experimenting on scrap wood instead of competed bodies, it might save a lot of time in the long run.
Sanding technique has a huge effect on the final result of any finish job IMO.
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Could you give me brand names on the sealer and acrylic?
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Carlo your stuff just keeps looking better and better!
Bill. be sure it shows trees too :)
Rob Francis
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Thanks, Rob!
Bill, I use Mohawk heavy bodied sanding sealer, M610-1657 and Mohawk Piano Lacquer clear, M610-1307. The sealer gets thinned 50/50 and the piano lacquer is ready to shoot. I also use their Ultra Penetrating Stain and a lot of other products. I'm pretty sure Scott knows the Rochester Mohawk distributor.
For solid colors I'm switching to acrylic automotive lacquers and compatible products from TCP Global.
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Thanks, Rob!
Bill, I use Mohawk heavy bodied sanding sealer, M610-1657 and Mohawk Piano Lacquer clear, M610-1307. The sealer gets thinned 50/50 and the piano lacquer is ready to shoot. I also use their Ultra Penetrating Stain and a lot of other products. I'm pretty sure Scott knows the Rochester Mohawk distributor.
For solid colors I'm switching to acrylic automotive lacquers and compatible products from TCP Global.
Thanks Carlo, I've been to the Mohawk dealer after our last finishing chat. Do I still need to grain fill with the Mohawk sealer?
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Thanks Carlo, I've been to the Mohawk dealer after our last finishing chat. Do I still need to grain fill with the Mohawk sealer?
I have never used grain filler. YMMV.
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I have never used grain filler. YMMV.
Cool! That's music to my ears!
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The RR. It's a combo of 51P (slab body but with belly and forearm cut and heel contour, pickguard), 60 Jazz (modded Jazz body outline, stacked pots) and TBird guts.
1.75 " thick one piece basswood body. 8.5 lbs, ThunderBucker '63 in the neck, hot single coil close to the bridge for extra sizzle. Monza Red lacquer.
Naked
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1060881P_zps01673a83.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1060881P_zps01673a83.jpg.html)
The pickguards fit under the the pup ring to allow the customer to switch them out and still keep the clean no screws look.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1060923P_zps4b1b3d8d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1060923P_zps4b1b3d8d.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/RRTortbody_zpsb4fd6282.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/RRTortbody_zpsb4fd6282.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1060887P_zpsf243747f.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1060887P_zpsf243747f.jpg.html)
Modded pup ring spacer for pickguard attachment. You can see the holes in the guard at the left
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1060891P_zps4a337474.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1060891P_zps4a337474.jpg.html)
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Gorgeous...
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very tasty! whats the single coil pickup in there?
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Gorgeous...
very tasty! whats the single coil pickup in there?
Thanks! Duncan SCPB-3 quarter-pounder rewound by ThunderBucker (Steve Soar).
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Looks great!!
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Very nifty! I like it! Another beautiful creation.
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A J bass even I could love.
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That has a dash of Guild and Gretsch in the outline, methinks. Nice work!!
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Thanks guys! As far as the outline, I traced a Jazz and added a small amount of my Godin Zeta to the mix and tweaked it. Guild Pilot resemblance maybe but not any Gretsch I'm familiar with.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/Zeta_zps40d6af6c.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/Zeta_zps40d6af6c.jpg.html)
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A J bass even I could love.
Same here. Very nice.
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That has a dash of Guild and Gretsch in the outline, methinks. Nice work!!
Yup...the Guild Pilot influence is there to my eye. I was thinking of some of Gretsch's more exotic models, but there's more Guild.
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Uli's bass cleared German customs yesterday and he says he's really digging it.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/RudolfRockSignature_zps441bb3b3.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/RudolfRockSignature_zps441bb3b3.jpg.html)
Yeah, that's a Bootsie on the wall. It gives me a real kick that Uli actually gigs my basses. Next up for him is a bound, 3 pickup, reverse headstock 'Bird.
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A beautiful bass, no doubt about that. But my heart is constantly directed toward the one pup, no pg, G8R, cherry. Now, that's a beauty! To be precise, that bass is the whole reason why that word's constructed: Beautiful! http://cataldobasses.com/G8R.html
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Crikey.. your site's grown up a bit since I last checked it... 8)
I agree with Stjofön... unique enough to be different and desirable...
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Thanks, guys! I've built 3 of those including the Eighter for myself. The best sellers are the more familiar looking stuff. Website needs to be updated as usual. No Phantom or RR on it yet.
Last bass of 2014 ready to go, time for a major shop cleanup.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/InvernessGreenREV42Shop_zps105b835c.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/InvernessGreenREV42Shop_zps105b835c.jpg.html)
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Carlo... I hate to say this but the workshop looks like it's slidin' into the swamp...! :o :mrgreen:
Presently winding down the shed and looking for suitable cases for my spares in prep for the relocation works...
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Carlo... I hate to say this but the workshop looks like it's slidin' into the swamp...! :o :mrgreen:
Presently winding down the shed and looking for suitable cases for my spares in prep for the relocation works...
Yeah, the whole place is! When's D-Day?
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Place goes up for sale in March, then it's fingers crossed... ;)
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Place goes up for sale in March, then it's fingers crossed... ;)
So, what's the master plan Kenny?
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So, what's the master plan Kenny?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZ6lB7FKxi8
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Ommmmm Ommmmm Ommmmm :mrgreen:
So, what's the master plan Kenny?
Short term... once sold... tempted to buy an old coach, strip it, and use it to transport all our gear north... once we find a location, convert it (coach) into a 4-berth holiday-let; try and set up some other lets; concentrate on the writing and photography; Jackie has some ideas of her own, as does Roshina - most of it gels together...
Some of it is towards the idea of a spiritual retreat...
J's not 100% on board (sic) with the coach idea but I can buy one for a fifth of the removal/relocation costs...
Location... main drag in the Highlands - the road from Inverness to Ullapool, or from Fort William to Skye, or the Great Glen (Caledonian Canal, which runs from Fort William to Inverness, passing Loch Ness on the route) - a lot of it will be arts-and-crafts related... once it happens I'll sporadically do something like my road-trip stuff...
A later plan is to build a (small-but-perfectly-formed) rehearsal space that I can also rent out - somewhere you can open the (barn)doors and look out to the mountains for inspiration (and midgies :o)
There's a certain degree of risk in this but we see no future in London, or anywhere in the south-east of England, for that matter... London is mortally wounded, as are most big cities, imho...
Presently sorting out packing for instruments that have no homes so just bought a "Coffin" - I have cases for the Acoustic, the SG, the Hohner, and the Jazz lives in the RD's case, so the RD can go in the Coffin and I'll pick up another couple of budget ones for the AD and R's P copy (which presently lives in a bag)
I'm hopeful, once relocated, that I may ask a certain notable party to make me a body to go with my other Jazz neck, but that's presently only wish territory until we're sorted...
I'll need to start seeding stuff away to build up kit for the space and sell off some other stuff - I went through some old Pennie Smith slides last night and found about 15 unpublished Zep at Knebworth originals, one Cash, some Roxy, Hunter/Ronson, Lou Reed, a load of CSNY from Wembley '74, Jeff Beck, a single McCartney, Hawkwind with Lemmy, 10CC - scan and sell original... oh yeah, and a bunch of some band called Deep Purple #III at the Hammersmith Odeon... :mrgreen: not sure of all of them yet...
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Ken, you ought to be able to profit handsomely from your photo collection.
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About 10 years ago a buddy of mine sold his ticket from SRV's last show for over $400 on Ebay. It was signed by Stevie and Jeff Beck.
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I met him and spoke for some time with the three of them at a Reading show... my prog is personalised by each of them and that's one item I don't intend to part with...
I did sell a signed Zep "ticket" for near that figure, but £'s, not $'s - as it was circa a year after Bonzo had gone and I had all three of them, and Grant, and a certain Cozy Powell... everyone thought they were going to announce a new drummer and it became a Zep legend... I've kept a high quality scan of it but the only time I printed it off I gave it to Scott as a thanks for some stuff he sent over...
Jackie junked hundreds of country sigs she had... she did see Cash but can't remember if she had his... not her thing, now...
Ken, you ought to be able to profit handsomely from your photo collection.
I paid 10p (15c) a slide... the 10x8's were that price too... I hope for a reasonable return too, Dave... :mrgreen: ;)
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Wow Kenny, sounds like a nice collection of stuff. I'm envious, I never had much luck getting pictures of rock stars, etc. Although I did snap a picture or two close up of Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland at the very first Earth Day at Valley Forge, PA. Do you think I could find those pics??? Naw.
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One of our regulars here, Billy, he's done some significant snapping iirc...
I was lucky having a couple of good venues nearby and a pro selling her "junk" - I don't think I have anything "major" of my own, mind you...
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I have a collection of signed Dick Dale stuff in a shadow box. Aside from that, nothin'.
But a friend who lives about 10 miles away used to be the Shure mic rep at the Fillmore West during the 60's. He has a box full of handbills and posters he collected from the Fillmore - Doors, Grateful Dead, Quicksilver Messenger Service, and many others form the 60's and early 70's. I think if he converted those to cash he'd be more secure in retirement.
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Historic photos? My ex bandmate, Marty Jourard of The Motels, has a FB page to do with the Gainesville, Florida music scene in the 60s and 70s. Many photos of that era have materialized, including this one recently. 1969, me on bass, 22, and my brother Tommy on guitar, 19, in RGF (Real Good F%^k). Not worth much on the market but valuable to me. Soon after I got thrown out, Tommy and I were always arguing and it wasn't fun to be around if you were a bandmate. Ron Blair was my replacement, his first gig as a bass player. He played guitar until then, the singer and I had quit his band six months previously to join RGF. I don't remember the bass I'm playing at all.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/ME/RGF1969_zpse212cb18.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/ME/RGF1969_zpse212cb18.jpg.html)
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Memories are what it's all about, Carlo... ;)
Is it a Gretch...
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Do I hear FOUR?
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/121314_zps78a86704.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/121314_zps78a86704.jpg.html)
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Come on Carlo, there's room for a few J pups in there too, just for balance... :mrgreen:
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Kenny, the bridge pup is actually a hot J in a ThunderBucker cover, will balance the 2 'buckers nicely. But, yeah there's always room for one more...especially in Photoshop!
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;)
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Cool 8 string Carlo. Anything special about the neck to accommodate the extra string tension?
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Cool 8 string Carlo. Anything special about the neck to accommodate the extra string tension?
Thanks, Ari. It's a modified Warmoth 8 string neck, had a huge headstock and a really fat profile. Single trussrod but overbuilt like all their necks. I thinned it out quite a bit, no problem with it staying dead flat under tension.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2013%20Eighter/7c29f60f-7543-428b-8152-ff8dc09757f9_zpsabce8a98.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2013%20Eighter/7c29f60f-7543-428b-8152-ff8dc09757f9_zpsabce8a98.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2013%20Eighter/Purple8erstock2_zps9864b8fc.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2013%20Eighter/Purple8erstock2_zps9864b8fc.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2013%20Eighter/P1020449_zps1e0f51dc.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2013%20Eighter/P1020449_zps1e0f51dc.jpg.html)
I used a Warmoth fiver neck for my 12er. Again, single trussrod but no problem with string tension. Both necks have 2 steel reinforcing rods but only the Eighter has the fancy strips.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060393P_zps3816539a.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060393P_zps3816539a.jpg.html)
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That time of the year!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/XMAS2014copy_zpsdbd9e57c.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/XMAS2014copy_zpsdbd9e57c.jpg.html)
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That's awesome!
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Good one Carlo! Merry Christmas and have a wonderful new year!!!!
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Have a great Swampmas... Slante...!
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You've accomplished some tremendous builds this year- beautiful basses!
Happy holidays!
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You've accomplished some tremendous builds this year- beautiful basses!
Happy holidays!
Everything above Carlo! Your skills keep leaping like an elf on steroids!
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Thanks, guys. You've all been a great inspiration!
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The feeling is more than mutual... molto grazie...
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Merry Christmas Everybody!
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A beautiful bass, no doubt about that. But my heart is constantly directed toward the one pup, no pg, G8R, cherry. Now, that's a beauty! To be precise, that bass is the whole reason why that word's constructed: Beautiful! http://cataldobasses.com/G8R.html
As the proud owner of the cherry G8R, I have to say it plays and sounds better than it looks! I gig with it almost exclusively of my current fifteen. Sounds like an extremely angry cannon...
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Phiver Phever.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070385P_zpstpw9ocrw.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070385P_zpstpw9ocrw.jpg.html)
MAX52S (special) on left, REV52 on right. Bodies are cypress, local to the swamp. There's a good supplier fairly close. It has qualities similar to light honduras mahogany, mainly density. Perimeter lines on the REV show what gets removed to make a REV into a MAX.
Here's the REV52 mocked up.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070402P1_zpsgsdc2a0n.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070402P1_zpsgsdc2a0n.jpg.html)
22 fret Warmoth neck, they make a nice product. The MAX has a 21 fret G&L Tribute neck, quality is a little better than Mighty Mite IMO. Made in Indonesia.
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Interesting, is this the first REV MAX?
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Interesting, is this the first REV MAX?
The REV has a raised center, MAX is flat. REV has the same shape as the original JAEbird, MAX is has a deeper cutaway and reshaped body. A REV MAX would have a raised center section with MAX shape...I guess. Haven't made one of those yet. Confused? Me, too! ;D
The one on the left IS the first MAX 52S (five string, 2 pickup Special). 'Special' meaning Korean pickups and tuners, one piece bridge, less body contouring, and G&L Tribute neck. It's about $500 less expensive than a 2 piece bridge, Hipshot tuner, ThunderBucker pickups, All Parts neck MAX.
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The creature from the swamp re-emerges into the light... :mrgreen:
What production numbers you up to now...?
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The creature from the swamp re-emerges into the light... :mrgreen:
What production numbers you up to now...?
I had some health issues to deal with as well as a trip to meet my one year old grandson, Enzo. Finishing up basses 0067 through 0069 as well as two prototypes/ one offs...the nightmare continues. ;D
Put this '98 Chinese Squier back together last month in preparation for the Swamp Soul Soiree.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070354P_zpswclpcajl.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070354P_zpswclpcajl.jpg.html)
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Interesting grain. Is the lower pic of the REV52 accurate in color? The top pic looks like it might have been affected by indoor lighting.
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Interesting grain. Is the lower pic of the REV52 accurate in color? The top pic looks like it might have been affected by indoor lighting.
The top pic was unsanded wood, the blanks were sitting around for 8 or 9 months since planing and gluing. Indoor light also has an effect.
Here's the REV body sanded to 240, stained, and with wash coat of sealer. All indoors.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070407P_zps4ioeq6ue.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070407P_zps4ioeq6ue.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070415P_zpsk9kctias.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070415P_zpsk9kctias.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070418P_zpsc7elxnbq.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070418P_zpsc7elxnbq.jpg.html)
...and the stain. I love how it goes from fresh blood red wet to dried blood brown.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070408P_zps8odnht7d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070408P_zps8odnht7d.jpg.html)
The grain is REALLY crazy on the sides. I'll get some shots once the clear goes on. Going to be rainy for the next few days so finishing is on hold.
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That grain looks great.
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+1 on the grain...
Sorry to hear about the health issue... saw the pics of you with Enzo elsewhere... you out of the woods...?
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+1 on the grain...
Sorry to hear about the health issue... saw the pics of you with Enzo elsewhere... you out of the woods...?
Just finished the second sealer coat, it's starting to pop.
Thanks, Kenny, I've recovered.
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Good to hear... outa the woods and back in the swamp... ;)
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...and into the shop.
A brace of 'birds. ExplorerBird to Italy, JAEbird USA bound. Both Fiesta Red.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070421P_zpslzzgyvcj.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070421P_zpslzzgyvcj.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070422P_zpsk7vcbawq.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070422P_zpsk7vcbawq.jpg.html)
Poplar raised center on the Ebird, remainder of the bodies is basswood. There's a good source for it in Ohio.
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Nice builds Carlo! The added plus to the cypress is that it is rot resistant! All weather birds! ;)
Is the cypress air dried? I love working with it to begin with but air dried wood is a joy to work with.
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Nice builds Carlo! The added plus to the cypress is that it is rot resistant! All weather birds! ;)
Is the cypress air dried? I love working with it to begin with but air dried wood is a joy to work with.
Also waterproof, doesn't swell like a lot of fake mahoganies when you damp sand it.
The supplier does air dried rough lumber but the select stuff is kiln dried. So far hasn't been too steep a learning curve to finish. First clear coat:
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070424P_zpscv8avjvv.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070424P_zpscv8avjvv.jpg.html)
Maple neck looks closer in color with same angle of light on it and body...maid's day off.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070428P_zpspcy98wud.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070428P_zpspcy98wud.jpg.html)
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Nice! I've never stained any of it but the grain is nicely figured a lot of the time. I wonder how cypress would respond to dye black and sand technique to pop the grain?
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Nice! I've never stained any of it but the grain is nicely figured a lot of the time. I wonder how cypress would respond to dye black and sand technique to pop the grain?
I'll have to give that a shot, maybe on the MAX Fiver.
Another great day for painting, mid 60s and 30% humidity. Pretty rare down here. I completed the refin of Nick's G8R Eighter after a long delay. Pelham Blue Poly under nitro clear.
Here's the before, sanded and filled. This is what happens with incompatible acrylic lacquer color and nitro clear coats. Clear shrinks and gives a crappy crackle effect. Would have been fine under acrylic clear.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070429P_zpscfgde8aq.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070429P_zpscfgde8aq.jpg.html)
Gray polyester primered G8R, JAEbird and EBird.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070432P_zpsophqgth8.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070432P_zpsophqgth8.jpg.html)
Sanded to 320, white primer coat, color coat and two double coats of clear. Good afternoon's work.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070444P_zpswgsmftwa.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070444P_zpswgsmftwa.jpg.html)
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That is a 8) blue...
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I swear, Carlo, every bass you make drives me wild. I had talked to you awhile ago about making me another bass. Though, I recently lost my job. So that's gonna put a damper on my bass buyin'.. But I am curious - would this finish be an option?
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Thanks, Todd. Sorry to hear about the job loss.
I've done a few relics. This was an almost new Squier before receiving the treatment.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/Housman%20020_zpsrfp0yp5z.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/Housman%20020_zpsrfp0yp5z.jpg.html)
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Hmmm...looks like 12 gauge birdshot at about 50 yards was involved in that relic job.
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Left out back for the g8trs... ;)
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I used a Warmoth fiver neck for my 12er. Again, single trussrod but no problem with string tension. Both necks have 2 steel reinforcing rods but only the Eighter has the fancy strips.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060393P_zps3816539a.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060393P_zps3816539a.jpg.html)
Have you built any other 12-string basses?
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Have you built any other 12-string basses?
I just started putting together a parts list for one. It will have a Warmoth 4 string 13 degree tiltback paddle headstock neck with carbon fiber rods. Warmoth's 4 string necks have the same heel as Fender 4s but with 21 frets. The Big Bottom 12 is stable after almost a year under tension. I haven't had to touch the trussrod.
Body will probably be a version of G8R, MAX, or ExplorerBird.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/1%20MultiStrings1_zpszbukoekz.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/1%20MultiStrings1_zpszbukoekz.jpg.html)
I sent the G8R to its new owner Friday, so I'm ready for a personal build.
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Five Alive
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/1%20REV%20Fiver%203_zpsmssys6kl.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/1%20REV%20Fiver%203_zpsmssys6kl.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070841P_zpsfrvlaxwf.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070841P_zpsfrvlaxwf.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070843P_zpsr4ys4bsd.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070843P_zpsr4ys4bsd.jpg.html)
Weight 9 lbs. ThunderBucker EX5 pickups. 50-135 strings. Tuned Bb to Gb.
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wow, that's just beautiful!
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+1
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That is beautiful Carlo!!
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Thanks, guys! Finally got my high tech photo studio sorted out, complete with my 12 year old Chinese copy of Photoshop 7.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/1%20studio%20Ebird_zpswdbyfi5m.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/1%20studio%20Ebird_zpswdbyfi5m.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/1%20Luca%202_zpsfpd03gyo.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/1%20Luca%202_zpsfpd03gyo.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/1%20Luca%201_zpstidnvr9z.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/1%20Luca%201_zpstidnvr9z.jpg.html)
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Perfect... ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdLIerfXuZ4
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I LOVE that cut!
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Carlo... be careful with that Chinese PS7... if it gets too close to your Explorerbird it'll be knocking out cheap copies in no time...! :mrgreen:
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Carlo you have stepped it up a notch since i have been away. that fiver is awesome....
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Thanks, Jim! I've built quite a few basses while you've been away including an 8er, a 12 string and a pair Vox Phantom clones.
Here's the next one in the pipeline shown with the departed Fiver. 32" scale tilt back headstock neck. Paint will be vintage candy apple, transparent red over gold base.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070896P_zpsmsfotaxw.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070896P_zpsmsfotaxw.jpg.html)
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Headstock completed, body should be done in a day or two.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1080002P_zpsv7ku2c7x.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1080002P_zpsv7ku2c7x.jpg.html)
Here's the stuff I used. Black primer /surfacer base (not shown), then gold miniflake and 'bloodshot' candy powder mixed in clear coats (separate coat for each). Then a dozen or so clear coats.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1070956P_zpsudhwopgz.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1070956P_zpsudhwopgz.jpg.html)
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Tilt... :o
Damn, Carlo... why'd you have to be so far away... ;)
Mind you... had a good day, weather-wise, so...
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Wow! That really laid down nicely Carlo.
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Tilt... :o
Damn, Carlo... why'd you have to be so far away... ;)
Mind you... had a good day, weather-wise, so...
Wow! That really laid down nicely Carlo.
Not going quite as well with the body. Jury still out.
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That I understand, considering what I'm about to post re my RD... :-\
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The finish is working out pretty well considering I had to go all the way down to 180 between the second and third clearcoat applications. Managed to do it with no sand thrus. Had that happened it would have been back to square one.
I think I put on way more metal flake than I needed to. It should be a lot easier next time, not to mention cheaper. Live and learn!
Clear over CAR over flake over black:
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/P1080086_zps66ucvyub.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/P1080086_zps66ucvyub.jpg.html)
Sanded 180, 240, 320, 400.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/P1080104_zpsagyksys9.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/P1080104_zpsagyksys9.jpg.html)
Final coats of clear, about 15 in all.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/P1080110_zpsyl04oqg4.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/P1080110_zpsyl04oqg4.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/P1080111_zps308pyyfh.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/P1080111_zps308pyyfh.jpg.html)
Gets color sanded and buffed next week.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/DDA%20Prelim_zpslbkvfusv.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/DDA%20Prelim_zpslbkvfusv.jpg.html)
Trussrod cover on buffed headstock. Nice to have one that does something!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/P1080135_zpsfea0hdpk.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/P1080135_zpsfea0hdpk.jpg.html)
Flies to Switzerland when it's done for June 13th first gig.
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Dedication... that's what it's all about... :popcorn:
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Off to Switzerland, hopefully in time to clear customs for a June 13 gig.
In black ...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232C_zpsayq5z5z4.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232C_zpsayq5z5z4.jpg.html)
...and white
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232_zps269ppo3r.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232_zps269ppo3r.jpg.html)
flipside
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232D_zpsfzrl0ww6.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232D_zpsfzrl0ww6.jpg.html)
in the sunshine, complete with tree.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232B_zpsexf12lx7.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232B_zpsexf12lx7.jpg.html)
ghost in the machine
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232A_zpspzulwbcx.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/DDA%20REV%204232A_zpspzulwbcx.jpg.html)
7.6 lbs. 32" scale makes for a very playable bass. Unfortunately the pictures don't do it justice, .004 micro flake is impossible to photograph properly. Beyond me, anyway.
The overall bass is about 2" shorter than my 34" REV, mainly due to the small 2+2 headstock. Body joins the neck past 18th+ fret so there's easy access all the way to the 21st. Zero neck dive.
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wow lovely lovely
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Very different and so cool! Looks great. Hope to see some pics of her inaction!
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Now, that's a pretty mother! Especially with the white pg. Really nice!
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Thanks, guys! I'll share pics if I get them. Here's a video from the band, they're from Lausanne:
https://youtu.be/d5zQyIdIl0Y
Customer originally spec'd a black pickguard. I slipped up and made a white one. He cordially pointed out my error in time for me to cut a black one and matching TR cover.
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Looks fine to me, especially in the third pic.
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You might capture some of the effect with a close-up video...?
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You might capture some of the effect with a close-up video...?
The individual .004 flakes are about the size of a pinpoint and the holo flakes reflect back out of focus into a lens.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/P1080136_zpsvl034zj7.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/P1080136_zpsvl034zj7.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01%20CAR/P1070972_zpsiwgeodch.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01%20CAR/P1070972_zpsiwgeodch.jpg.html)
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Turned out amazing as always Carlo!!!
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Suddenly reminded me of Metalicataldo cover... :o
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Suddenly reminded me of Metalicataldo cover... :o
That's Cataldoca.
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I might regret this ... which translates as...?
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Similar to Judaica but doesn't require painful body mutilation.
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The latest JAEbird incarnation:
A guy from Italy contacted me last week. He found me by googling 'FenderBird' because that's what he wants. He has a gig coming up Oct 1 and really wanted one for it. I told him I had one possible body I could build in that time. I sent him these pix of the dampened blank.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/Maple%201_zpsi48vjphg.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/Maple%201_zpsi48vjphg.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/Maple%202_zpscmuctjgp.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/Maple%202_zpscmuctjgp.jpg.html)
He said , "Great, paint it Fiesta Red." There's a little bit of a language problem but I finally got across the point that I wasn't going to cover up the grain on this magnificent piece of wood. So he said, "Okay, transparent orange." Why not?
Here's the quickie Photoshop rendering.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/AR42a%20Concept_zpsktawi2np.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/AR42a%20Concept_zpsktawi2np.jpg.html)
Deeper cutaway, 'WideStance' ThunderBuckers, Stacked pots, side jack, 'noscru' pickguard/pickup rings. Vintage tint fretboard, one piece maple neck with homebrew "Fiesta Red" Mohawk Ultra Penetrating Stain and Piano lacquer on everything else. Hipshots and a Detuner. He's a Hipshot endorser and gets those for free.
Have to ship it September 15th to get it through Italian customs in time for his gig. That means I gotta finish the stain/clear by Tuesday.
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Mach schnell!!
Should be beautiful! Looking forward to photos.
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Mach schnell!!
Should be beautiful! Looking forward to photos.
Thanks, Al!...there's more on the dark site (http://www.talkbass.com/threads/one-piece-solid-flame-maple-trans-stain-quickie-build.1170424/).
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That will look very nice in gloss.
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That will look very nice in gloss.
Thanks, Dave, it's getting close!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1080684P_zps8euji0wc.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1080684P_zps8euji0wc.jpg.html)
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Magnifico...! 8)
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Get packing, Ken!
Subtle neck tint using Ultra Classic Toner sprayed from about 15 inches in good light.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1080741P_zps2wzr7aro.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1080741P_zps2wzr7aro.jpg.html)
One 4 inch length of masking tape and one 8x11 sheet of notebook paper gave their lives to tint, stain, and clear coat the neck. Spray paint does not go around corners, neither does ragged on stain if carefully done. Much more fun then spending time masking!
Entire neck sprayed with three coats Mohawk Piano Lacquer.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/01%20Rigoni%20Neck_zpsqmtlnrii.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/01%20Rigoni%20Neck_zpsqmtlnrii.jpg.html)
Waiting on ThunderBuckers, rings and other metal. Color sand, buff, and polish next week.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1080777P_zpsfzipldto.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1080777P_zpsfzipldto.jpg.html)
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off the thread a bit but carlo you will like this story. my wife is a bit of an art collector and has a keen eye for color. we own an authentic renoir so i had to brag a little on that. anyway, i showed her your web site and she went nuts looking at your different finishes. after a while she proclaimed, " this is beyond bass, this is art." i thought you might enjoy that sentiment. what you won't enjoy is she offered to buy me the cataldo bass of my choice. i had to turn her down for practical reasons. :sad: turns out we needed the money a week later so it all worked out, except for your potential sale,buddy. :)
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off the thread a bit but carlo you will like this story. my wife is a bit of an art collector and has a keen eye for color. we own an authentic renoir so i had to brag a little on that. anyway, i showed her your web site and she went nuts looking at your different finishes. after a while she proclaimed, " this is beyond bass, this is art." i thought you might enjoy that sentiment. what you won't enjoy is she offered to buy me the cataldo bass of my choice. i had to turn her down for practical reasons. :sad: turns out we needed the money a week later so it all worked out, except for your potential sale,buddy. :)
Wow, quite the compliment. Please thank her for me! Sorry I won't be building you a bass but glad you had the $$ when you needed it.
I've always referred to what I do as blart. I like Marshall McLuhan's definition, "Art is whatever you can get away with."...and Andy Warhol's theft of the line.
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Wow, quite the compliment. Please thank her for me! Sorry I won't be building you a bass but glad you had the $$ when you needed it.
I've always referred to what I do as blart. I like Marshall McLuhan's definition, "Art is whatever you can get away with."...and Andy Warhol's theft of the line.
Kinda like that old quote: "If you play the wrong note once, it's a mistake; play it twice and it's jazz."
Except Carlo plays the RIGHT notes!
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Kinda like that old quote: "If you play the wrong note once, it's a mistake; play it twice and it's jazz."
Except Carlo plays the RIGHT notes!
Except when he don't! Clams, anyone?
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Cataldo Basses Facebook page just hit 1600 likes...I think I'll take it out to celebrate. It all started here, guys. Many thanks for the inspiration and feedback.
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Congrats, you've earned it.
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Thanks, Dave! Really couldn't or wouldn't have done it without you guys.
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Nothing more than what you deserve...!
As for the packing... might have to wait for the Highlands to finally finish those builds... :mrgreen:
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Photoshop Phiver Phriday. Waiting for paint to dry so I'm finishing off this one. Active and passive.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/01%20FiestaFiver%20logo_zpsqd1x5cpr.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/01%20FiestaFiver%20logo_zpsqd1x5cpr.jpg.html)
...what's next, black hardware? Tee shirts?
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/01Cataldo%20TEE_zpsbx0bs6dh.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/01Cataldo%20TEE_zpsbx0bs6dh.jpg.html)
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Cool...
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The Apocalypse...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1080877P_zpsxer4b3ir.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1080877P_zpsxer4b3ir.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/01%20Fiesta%20Fiver%20BLK%20gard_zpskwcsamti.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/01%20Fiesta%20Fiver%20BLK%20gard_zpskwcsamti.jpg.html)
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That is beautiful!
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Tell me it's set neck and you're there. And it's not the Apocalypse; it's the Metalocalypse (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metalocalypse)!
(http://sp3.fotolog.com/photo/3/49/104/bass_photos/1265770060110_f.jpg)
Worth noting: creator/animator/musician Brendon Small actually has a full Gibson endorsement deal and Murderface has always played only Thunderbird Studio fivers, complete with logo in closeups even though the model has been deleted for the entire run of the show.
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Looks great Carlo!!
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The Apocalypse...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/P1080877P_zpsxer4b3ir.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/P1080877P_zpsxer4b3ir.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/02/01%20Fiesta%20Fiver%20BLK%20gard_zpskwcsamti.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/02/01%20Fiesta%20Fiver%20BLK%20gard_zpskwcsamti.jpg.html)
that is indeed a thing of great beauty
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I expect the customer to rave about it!
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If the world has run out of chrome, then it must be the apocalypse.
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That is a bass I could love...
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If I win the lottery, a Cataldo is on my shopping list,
that is pretty much exactly what i would want to order
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Gorgeous work, as usual... 8)
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Awesomeeeeeee!
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Thanks, Doc. Get well soon!
My 69th Birthday present. '63 ThunderBucker, stack pot, ebony board P width neck, Badbird tailpiece 7.3 lbs, no neck dive! Currently in primer. Loving the sound with GHS Progressives.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/Cataldo%20CAT01_zpsnwz7tkvq.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/Cataldo%20CAT01_zpsnwz7tkvq.jpg.html)
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Beautiful! And happy birthday!
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Beautiful! And happy birthday!
Thanks, Dave!
ARMAX 52 in action
https://youtu.be/mLZWm6Kjz6c
https://youtu.be/1H3Xt3pyP9U
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+1 (in more than one way) on the birthday Mr P ... :mrgreen:
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Happy Birthday!
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Happy Birthday Carlo! So, is 69 the new 29? ;D
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Happy Birthday Carlo!!!
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Congrats on another happy birthday!
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Happy Birthday Carlo! So, is 69 the new 29? ;D
I'm about 6 months behind him, and in my case 68 is the new 78.
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I'm about 6 months behind him, and in my case 68 is the new 78.
Like they say, it ain't the years, it's the mileage.
Some days the odometer reads higher than others.
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I'd rather not think about mileage with mine being well into the seven digits... :mrgreen:
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I'd rather not think about mileage with mine being well into the seven digits... :mrgreen:
Are you using the Gene Simmons or Wilt Chamberlain method of calculating your mileage?
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The Wilt Chamberlain model is based on inches of travel, not miles.
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Okay, my fault for the diversion, now let's give Carlo back his thread.
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Okay, my fault for the diversion, now let's give Carlo back his thread.
I've been enjoying it!
Five basses in various stages of construction including this G8r41 for Steve 'ThunderBucker' Soar. 7.4 lbs, 63 ThunderBucker, J width neck, Hipshots, Cadillac Green with tort 'guard.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090004P_zpslfcyqbcj.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090004P_zpslfcyqbcj.jpg.html)
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Call me kooky, but I think a reverse gator would look really cool. Gator NR perhaps? I took the liberty of a five-minute photo edit... not quite ambitious enough to flip the headstock back upright :)
(http://slinkp.com/~paul/gator_NR.jpg)
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Call me kooky, but I think a reverse gator would look really cool. Gator NR perhaps? I took the liberty of a five-minute photo edit... not quite ambitious enough to flip the headstock back upright :)
(http://slinkp.com/~paul/gator_NR.jpg)
Thanks for the input, Paul...The G8R is the result of the RNR project (Reverse/Non Reverse). I did build one 'NR' version, shown here in Surf Green. Last known location was Buffalo.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/RNR/P1010695.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/RNR/P1010695.jpg.html)
The horns are more radical on the G8R than the RNR. I have one more 'NR' body that I've been meaning to get back to. It has the G8R horn cut.
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Ooh, I really like that one. That might be my favorite body shape you've made!
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Three of five I hope to have done by Xmas. Three 4s, a 5, and a 12er.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090010P_zpsijk45lls.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090010P_zpsijk45lls.jpg.html)
Cadillac Green curing.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090034_zpsrpwiz1od.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090034_zpsrpwiz1od.jpg.html)
Soon to be Cardinal Red.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090078P_zpswwsrqdfn.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090078P_zpswwsrqdfn.jpg.html)
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AH, I'm envious! You're making such great progress and great basses.
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AH, I'm envious! You're making such great progress and great basses.
Thanks, Doc. The weather is very conducive to getting things done right now. 60s for lows, 80s for highs, and dry enough to paint with no problems. Just finished clear coating two necks and primering a body after prepping them this morning.
Even Bruce Johnson who makes scroll basses admits it doesn't take more than 40 hours to build one. My stuff is a lot less complicated so two five day weeks at 4 hrs per day is more than enough to build one of mine...including social media time to keep the ball rolling.
The guy I built this for sent it back to have the option we talked about when he originally ordered it.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060694P_zpsb81d0879.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060694P_zpsb81d0879.jpg.html)
I had routed the body for the option when I built it so it was pretty easy to mod. I used two Duncan Quarter pounders, they really sound like the original pups in my '67 Phantom which also have 1/4" magnets. Third pot is a 250k blend.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090050P_zpsh7jzt6pf.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090050P_zpsh7jzt6pf.jpg.html)
I tried to talk him into using all three pickups but he said that was too much to think about! Easily done with a push/pull switch on the volume pot.
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Love that Phantom!
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Love that Cadillac Green!
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Sure wish I could warm up to green basses. There's something in my brain that holds me back.
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Sure wish I could warm up to green basses. There's something in my brain that holds me back.
i like 'em better in brighter greens - verging on Emerald green - especially if the grain shows in the finish. Don't see many of those, though.
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The 8 string..........I think I wet myself. Thank god it has to many pickups.
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The 8 string..........I think I wet myself. Thank god it has to many pickups.
It's a 12er. There's a reason TP rarely plays Eights!
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:mrgreen:
Love that Cadillac Green!
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Steve's #0072, all 7.4 lbs. of it.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090165P_zpsfojejkn7.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090165P_zpsfojejkn7.jpg.html)
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Very cool, I love color combo.
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Thanks, Bill!
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+1
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I really, really lust for that beauty. One of the most beautiful basses to be seen. So simple, and so cool. As Bobby Vee put it real clever, in the company of The Crickets: Someday... :-X
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Did I mention that I love Cadillac Green? :mrgreen:
That came out great!
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Very cool, I love color combo.
Yeah, what he said!
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Trying to finish everything before Xmas, this one went out last Tuesday to Newcastle on Tyne...coals to Merry Ol'.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090230P_zpsxyayiksh.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090230P_zpsxyayiksh.jpg.html)
This one goes to Maine Thursday.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090247P_zpsnmlmhym7.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090247P_zpsnmlmhym7.jpg.html)
And this one goes out as soon as it's cleaned up and tuned up.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090259P_zpsrkjx1e15.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090259P_zpsrkjx1e15.jpg.html)
Boris the Shop Spider and discarded .065 and .105.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090253P_zpsgcb4ia03.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090253P_zpsgcb4ia03.jpg.html)
Not happy at being disturbed while moulting!
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A Christmas spider, perhaps? :P
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A Christmas spider, perhaps? :P
Drumsticks for all!
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That blocked JAEBird is very purty
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Black with maple dot neck. Simple and beautiful.
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Awesome work Carlo!
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+1 on everyone else... :mrgreen:
Any veggie alternative for the drumsticks please, and don't embed him in the ground... ;)
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yes middle one is my favourite
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I had to do some work in Green Drive in Inverness... As close as it gets, I guess... :mrgreen:
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The NR 12ver is nutz!
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The NR 12ver is nutz!
Certainly is! Going out in about ten days when it's fully dialed in.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090289P_zpstax9ztta.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090289P_zpstax9ztta.jpg.html)
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New look for 2016. Black power!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090416P_zps3jabkiao.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090416P_zps3jabkiao.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090406P_zpsogy1racp.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090406P_zpsogy1racp.jpg.html)
Trans Red over poplar, wide 5 17/8" at the nut, ebony board, Hipshot 'Y' tuners, ABM bridge. Black ThunderBuckers and rings go in tomorrow. 'Speedier' knobs, no number with drilled and filled tops. Red 'bird transfer from Larry Verna. Pickguard red stripe is sharpie over white. Off to the land of the wooden shoes next week.
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Oh my!
The Bloodbird!
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Wow Carlo THAT ROCKS
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Stunning!!!
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If only Gibson could create something that beautiful.
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Man, you always have something cool up your sleeve, don't you? Looks great!
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If only Gibson could create something that beautiful.
I can only echo Bill's comments... 8)
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Thanks, Guys! I really appreciate your encouragement.
Black matte powdercoat over nickel silver. I'm pretty satisfied with my first attempt. I'll try gloss next time. Tough stuff! I tried to chip it off with an exacto knife, no way.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090422P_zpsvduyzqtq.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090422P_zpsvduyzqtq.jpg.html)
Also did the jack nut and washer, impossible to find black Switchcrafts.
Strings are GHS Progressives.
http://www.ghsstrings.com/products/11284-bass-progressivestm?category_id=1964696-progressivestm
Magnetized tungsten. Note the taper core B and E strings at the bridge saddles. GHS contacted me a few months ago about using their strings and were nice enough to send me samples, including a custom 12er set to my spec. I like the Progresives a lot. Very smooth from bottom to top.
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Thunderbuckers and an ebony board .... ohhhh man. I want to hear this so bad.
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I used to use those "style" of strings (central core on bridge only) on my headless (Mark King Rotos) but I tended to snap them so never went back to them... don't have any modern experience of them, mind you...
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Looks to me like your chops for composition and the obvious building skills have exploded Carlo.
But I do miss the trees ;D
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That looks fantastic!
Carlo - did you do the powdercoat yourself? If so, just curious what kind of setup are you using?
The results look good.
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That looks fantastic!
Carlo - did you do the powdercoat yourself? If so, just curious what kind of setup are you using?
The results look good.
I used a Harbor Freight system, around $54 with a 20% off coupon. Also used their powder, $7 for a pound. They have four colors and the black only comes in matte. Bought a toaster oven for curing at Walmart for $18, more than adequate.
http://www.harborfreight.com/catalogsearch/result?q=powder+coat
You need a compressor but it only requires around 10 psi. There are lots of You Tube tutorials. Quality powders are around $15 per pound, that will do a lot of coating.
If you screw up you can easily remove the finish with rattle can paint remover. I did a few test scraps and the actual parts came out with no problems.
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I used a Harbor Freight system, around $54 with a 20% off coupon. Also used their powder, $7 for a pound. They have four colors and the black only comes in matte. Bought a toaster oven for curing at Walmart for $18, more than adequate.
http://www.harborfreight.com/catalogsearch/result?q=powder+coat
You need a compressor but it only requires around 10 psi. There are lots of You Tube tutorials. Quality powders are around $15 per pound, that will do a lot of coating.
If you screw up you can easily remove the finish with rattle can paint remover. I did a few test scraps and the actual parts came out with no problems.
Awesome- that is right up my alley. I've made good side money with my Harbor Freight tools over the years ;D
I had a prototype panel machined by Front Panel Express a while back, and their cost to powder coat is very high (per piece). Looks nice, but I ended up going with anodized aluminum on the "production" units because of that.
Thanks for the tip.
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You're welcome, Joe. I've also made a lot of money with Harbor Freight tools going back to the mid 80s when they were a 6 store chain/mail order business. They've always been great value for the price.
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Very nice work as usual, Carlo.
Are the powder coating paints strictly for metal or could they be used on primed wood?
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As far as I know, powder coating is strictly for metal, as when you are spraying the powder, opposite electrical charges are applied to the powder and the work so that the powder will stick there until it is oven-cured.
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You can powder coat mdf but it's a complicated process:
http://www.pcimag.com/articles/94360-how-to-powder-coat-mdf
Not much use for musical instruments.
I've been around industrial powder coating a long time. Around 400,000 chairs, desks, etc I designed have powder coated metal parts (another 300,000 or so are chromed, that can be a real PITA). A great thing is the transfer percentage of powder, close to 100 % with a simple powder recycling system. The oven also keeps your factory warm no matter what the season.
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Thanks. I was thinking about small wood objects, not musical instruments.
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Thanks. I was thinking about small wood objects, not musical instruments.
I'm sure somebody could do it.
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Money Shot...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090444P_zpskg6ndwqq.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090444P_zpskg6ndwqq.jpg.html)
And some Photoshop Phun, deeper cutaway and reduced upper horn.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090439P1_zpszjihlv1a.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090439P1_zpszjihlv1a.jpg.html)
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Likin' that
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If I was in more of a heavy rock band, that's exactly what I'd want.
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oh my word
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That would certainly work for me.
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That is simply beautiful...
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2016 CatBirds
Plain Vanilla....Polaris White, actually. Single ThunderBucker MAX, soon to be replaced with a '63 spec, StelthStak pot, GodofThunder tailpiece, StairStep Hipshots, ebony fretboard with EZC side dots, 'Stadium' logo headstock. 7.4 lbs
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090501P_zpsfc9xtojv.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090501P_zpsfc9xtojv.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090511P_zpssf8znzax.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090511P_zpssf8znzax.jpg.html)
All Tarted Up and Hot to Trot. Fiesta trans stain on flame maple, one piece maple neck with TruVint tint,
WideStance ThunderBuckers, TwinStak pots, etc.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/Z%20CATBIRD%202016_zpsec5suuz9.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/Z%20CATBIRD%202016_zpsec5suuz9.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090525P_zpswdk8xk6g.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090525P_zpswdk8xk6g.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090536P_zpsfuojbqmr.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090536P_zpsfuojbqmr.jpg.html)
3.2 mm diameter
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090538P_zps9od6y3kc.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090538P_zps9od6y3kc.jpg.html)
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They are both way beautiful and I love the simplcity of the white one. Right up my alley!!!
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They are both way beautiful and I love the simplcity of the white one. Right up my alley!!!
Thanks, Doc! The white one's mine, I'll be playing it next month at the forty year reunion of my old band.
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i like simple as well. the white one is just about perfect, imo.
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I also love the white one. Not surprised that you're keeping it.
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For the 80% (probably more) of bassplayers who prefer two pickups...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090544P%20wht_zpsyewclash.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090544P%20wht_zpsyewclash.jpg.html)
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Single pup would be nice ...
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Single pup would be nice ...
Check a few posts back, Ken!
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"My" dream choice, not the one your using for your gig... just my own preference matches up with your own... ;)
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The last of the 2x4 bodies, modded RNR shape. Deeper cutaways. I did some heavy body scalloping, planning on doing more to the treble side. Shot gray primer to get an idea how it's coming along. Twelver neck. Fits in a standard case, even with the big headstock.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090581P_zpslhq2ozux.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090581P_zpslhq2ozux.jpg.html)
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I like the way the contouring looks with the modded RNR!
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not a big fan of the NR type shape usually but that looks really nice
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Daphne Blue going to Roy in Singapore. It's an amazing place, the subway stations are made of marble. The first time I was there a Phlipina maid was being executed publicly in a soccer stadium for a murder she couldn't have physically committed. Her employer had obviously done it but she took the fall. Subsequent visits were more pleasant. Best airport I've ever experienced, followed by Kuala Lumpur and the new Hong Kong one. The old one was ringed by peaks and dropped you into the middle of Kowloon after you'd hopefully managed not to soil yourself.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090590P_zps4iasyrz2.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090590P_zps4iasyrz2.jpg.html)
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Love the color on that body.
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Love the color on that body.
Ditto!
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+2 :mrgreen:
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...so I guess we have a consensus on Daphne blue. Looks even better with three clear coats.
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:popcorn:
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Are the radii different on those pickup routes or is it just an optical illusion?
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Are the radii different on those pickup routes or is it just an optical illusion?
Good eye! Body is a few years old, it originally had a single pup route done by CNC using a standard 35 series program. I added the correct shaped route for the bridge pup for this 2 pickup order. That's one reason I stopped using outside suppliers for anything I can do myself. Pickguard pickup cutout is correct and hides incorrect route. Bridge pickup gets a spacer and ring.
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Photoshop and other diversions...
Lefty Ebird. Customer plays right handed flipped so it will be an easy set up.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090639P_zps61dfwa1n.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090639P_zps61dfwa1n.jpg.html)
Which lead me to this...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/VERZO_zpssb21s6sa.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/VERZO_zpssb21s6sa.jpg.html)
On the rack in zero gravity.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090653P_zpsxahz19ht.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090653P_zpsxahz19ht.jpg.html)
Thanks for the encouragement on the RNR! Body took quite a bit of work to get it ready for paint. Going to be Shoreline Gold, or as close as I can get with Rustoleum 'Gold Rush' acrylic lacquer. Shinto Rasp is the sh#t!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090658P_zpsge2ftdt9.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090658P_zpsge2ftdt9.jpg.html)
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Roy's Daphne Blue NR with matte finish neck waiting to be pick guarded/ringed before shipping to Singapore...and the Shoreline Gold RNR, just waiting. Shot the lacquer Saturday, put it together this AM to have a look see. It's growing on me.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090688P_zpsnspt3fb6.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090688P_zpsnspt3fb6.jpg.html)
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Beaut' Sport...!
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Okay. Now I really really want an RnR. Too bad I have no bass funds at all currently :(
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What's the starting price for an RnR anyway? I don't see it at all on your site...
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Okay. Now I really really want an RnR. Too bad I have no bass funds at all currently :(
What's the starting price for an RnR anyway? I don't see it at all on your site...
Thanks, Paul! Single pickup is $1395. This is the prototype, that's why it's not on the site yet.
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I like it better than my second design. Nice job. I think you've hit in a nice look there.
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Thanks, Doc!
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Hot to go...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090701%20nobird_zpskgivsu4p.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090701%20nobird_zpskgivsu4p.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090714P_zps4n4cdidh.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090714P_zps4n4cdidh.jpg.html)
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The Daphne Blue really came out nice!
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Thanks, Dave!
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My FenderBird's backward cousin! Beauty...
(https://scontent.fhsv1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/61914_1451000993531_5668897_n.jpg?oh=daf0765c584c1b44440e9594cf2add61&oe=57AED309)
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Yeah, Tom!
I've never understood why the original TBird shape came to be called the 'Reverse'. I try not to think about it these days.
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Same! It should be the other way around.
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Yeah, Tom!
I've never understood why the original TBird shape came to be called the 'Reverse'. I try not to think about it these days.
From what I've read, it was because the "normal" orientation, as with a P-Bass, has a longer upper bout rather than the Rev's extended lower bout. I suppose it looked odd to them (whoever "them" is). That said, I agree that the reverse style IS "normal".
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From what I've read, it was because the "normal" orientation, as with a P-Bass, has a longer upper bout rather than the Rev's extended lower bout. I suppose it looked odd to them (whoever "them" is). That said, I agree that the reverse style IS "normal".
That was pretty much my theory. Must have been pretty rad in 1963.
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Makes sense when you explain it like that. OTOH I don't recall anyone using either term back in the 60s.
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They all look the same in the dark.
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Makes sense when you explain it like that. OTOH I don't recall anyone using either term back in the 60s.
I don't either they were differentiated by year maybe but I didn't hear reverse etc until a lot later.
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Another thing I recall is that the headstocks were considered "wrong" because they curled upward at the end, rather than down like the Fender 'stock. Even today, the pointy/droopy headstocks on miscellaneous and sundry "poser" instruments have a "reverse" variant.
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Here's the poster for 'Poser'!
It will be a 32" scale neck through Twelver.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090725P_zps2tgmzhph.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090725P_zps2tgmzhph.jpg.html)
So is it a Reverse or Non Reverse? ;D
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what a perfect name for it. ;D
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what a perfect name for it. ;D
It's a V3rZo!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/VERZO%20single_zps9pcnpqjb.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/VERZO%20single_zps9pcnpqjb.jpg.html)
Font, spelling, and typeface subject to change without notice.
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Cataldo Dodici... 8)
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Cataldo Dodici... 8)
;D ;D
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Lefty is done and gone. Plays great right handed with strap button on the neck heel.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090849P_zpsyewcljz7.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090849P_zpsyewcljz7.jpg.html)
H-22 time!
'67 needs a bridge carved, nut cut, selector switch rebuild, and de nicotining. '63 needs neck touch up after I pulled the board and repaired the truss rod.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090872P_zpsznm1iqow.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090872P_zpsznm1iqow.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090875P_zpsguejlqzm.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090875P_zpsguejlqzm.jpg.html)
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:popcorn:
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Twelver necks coming from Todd Mullins. I've been following his work since he converted an Ibanez Destroyer neck into an 8 string.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/12er%20nex%20almost%20done_zpsvywesjkl.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/12er%20nex%20almost%20done_zpsvywesjkl.jpg.html)
Through necks, one 34, one 32. 3 piece maple, 12" radius ebony fretboards with 6105 frets, double truss rod. Should arrive just in time for Fall building season! I'll do the final carving.
Todd's a TB guy, posts a lot of interesting builds there. Here's one:
www.talkbass.com/threads/thundertwins.927165/
Meanwhile, this MAX42 went out yesterday to Lakeville, MN. 8.2 lbs. Trans jade on poplar, '63 Thunderbuckers, stacked pots. I'm really happy with this one, probably time to quit!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090962P_zps5ysvnaw8.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090962P_zps5ysvnaw8.jpg.html)
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I really like that last MAX.
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I really like that last MAX.
Thanks, Paul! I think I've finally got it where I wanted it in sound, looks, and playability.
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That Trans Jade is gorgeous.
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That Trans Jade is gorgeous.
Thanks, Al. I had been using 1:1 yellow to blue, changed it to 2 yellow to 1 blue.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090882%20comp_zpsmgqv775w.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090882%20comp_zpsmgqv775w.jpg.html)
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I still miss the trees in your shots 8)
Exceptional work there Carlo
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Thanks, Bob. I'll try to get a tree shot for you when the weather cools down!
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Love that color... even deliberately spelt it rite in your honor... 8)
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Love that color... even deliberately spelt it rite in your honor... 8)
I'm honoured though not mouved.
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hey, are the thunderblaster pups available separately?
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hey, are the thunderblaster pups available separately?
ThunderBuckers:
http://www.thunderbuckerranch.com/
(http://www.thunderbuckerranch.com/)
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Making progress on the Verzo Fiver with Wenge/Ebony neck.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100163_zpsejbu8kob.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100163_zpsejbu8kob.jpg.html)
Color is going to be Sunset Orange Metallic acrylic lacquer.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/sunburst%20orange%20metallic_zpskervulw7.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/sunburst%20orange%20metallic_zpskervulw7.jpg.html)
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Refinned this.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100012_zpsonblkqp1.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100012_zpsonblkqp1.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100011_zpserutxui0.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100011_zpserutxui0.jpg.html)
Matte Charcoal!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100231P_zpslxz5bqbg.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100231P_zpslxz5bqbg.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100235P_zpswca97mhw.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100235P_zpswca97mhw.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100236P_zpskva6dn8c.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100236P_zpskva6dn8c.jpg.html)
I mixed flat black primer/surfacer with gloss white nitro and Mohawk 'Flash Off. Really changes according to available light. I'm looking forward to seeing if I can keep it matte using 'Rat Wax' detailer.
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The Cataldo "Noir" bass. Be sure to charge double for that one!
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The Cataldo "Noir" bass. Be sure to charge double for that one!
No kidding! This one's mine, keeping matte matte is not easy. I'm trying out some stuff called 'Rat Wax' that seems promising.
I was buying gas the other day and the guy in the bay next to me was filling up a matte black Merc GLA AMG45. Looked really sharp but Merc charges $5000 for the matte paint option. I guess when you're already paying $50k for a small 360 hp hatchback that's no big deal.
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"I mixed flat black primer/surfacer with gloss white nitro and Mohawk 'Flash Off. "
THAT's a flash of creativity.
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A vast improvement. What's going into the cavity?
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A vast improvement. What's going into the cavity?
Haven't decide on the pickup. Large hole is just to lighten the body as much as possible.
"I mixed flat black primer/surfacer with gloss white nitro and Mohawk 'Flash Off. "
THAT's a flash of creativity.
Thanks, I didn't have any Speedball ink. ;D
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Seriously, on the Flash-Off:
From the Mohawk catalog:
"Used to improve the flow of lacquers and sealers without slowing the drying. Additions of one or two ounces of Flash-Off™ control solvent per gallon of lacquer will eliminate overspray roughness in the finish and improve the overall smoothness. Not a blush retarder."
It works well since color sanding (wet sanding) isn't an option with a matte finish.
I bought a gallon about five years ago and still have a lifetime supply. I keep a small amount in a mason jar, whatever the stuff is it eats the rubber seal on the lids. I'm guessing the state of California might consider it a carcinogen. ;D
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100237_zpsixni7sp8.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100237_zpsixni7sp8.jpg.html)
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What happens behind pickguard, stays behind pickguard! :D Nice work, I like matte finishes!
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VerZo 5, Sunrise Orange Metallic lacquer base coat:
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100255_zpsb8uzz48x.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100255_zpsb8uzz48x.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100256_zpszt4tyadc.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100256_zpszt4tyadc.jpg.html)
And with first clear coats.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/00%20Twofer_zpsvohdm3o1.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/00%20Twofer_zpsvohdm3o1.jpg.html)
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I Rat Waxed the P body. It definitely seems to work per instructions. Was absorbed by the finish and wiped off matte.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100314_zpsi4gywmte.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100314_zpsi4gywmte.jpg.html)
I found this Allparts black pearl guard in a parts drawer, no idea where it came from. I may black out the 3 ply and matte the pearl and give it a shot. I've been leaning toward a DiMarzio P anyway.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100300_zpsqd1ypx0m.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100300_zpsqd1ypx0m.jpg.html)
Gloss and Not
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100308_zpsgwibvceg.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100308_zpsgwibvceg.jpg.html)
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Heck, I like the thin white accent!
But I think I'd like it either way.
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Works well with that pickguard.
Never heard of Rat Wax before. Looks like a good product for my matte finishes.
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Works well with that pickguard.
Never heard of Rat Wax before. Looks like a good product for my matte finishes.
So far I'm happy with it. They have coupons pretty often, last one was 25% off a few days ago.
https://www.facebook.com/RatWax/
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Heck, I like the thin white accent!
But I think I'd like it either way.
Same here but the white is nice contrast.
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I sanded a piece of black pearl with 1800 micromesh and rat waxed it. I think that's the way to go.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100318_zpsbbu3puot.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100318_zpsbbu3puot.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100322_zpsfmvkfyso.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Funk%20Machine%20Refurb/P1100322_zpsfmvkfyso.jpg.html)
Considering blacked out hardware, staining the rosewood fretboard with Fiebings black, and using Labella tapes for full stealth mode. Probably hit the white on the p/g with a red sharpie like this.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090416PN_zpst8ck4zet.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090416PN_zpst8ck4zet.jpg.html)
Plus 'Speedier Knobs' (micromeshed and rat waxed).
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1090413%20SpeedieR_zpsuwr3hsyp.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1090413%20SpeedieR_zpsuwr3hsyp.jpg.html)
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Oh yeah!
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:popcorn:
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Been on the DL for the last month or so with a sore arm. Back on the job, color sanded, buffed and polished VerZo.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100372_zpshf5jyxth.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100372_zpshf5jyxth.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100381_zps81ubwcw5.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100381_zps81ubwcw5.jpg.html)
Installed ferrules, wired, and buttoned up.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100386_zpsvbckl17j.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100386_zpsvbckl17j.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100390_zpshli39kgb.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100390_zpshli39kgb.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100391_zps6gnfbjpf.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100391_zps6gnfbjpf.jpg.html)
Blacked out...you know those kids...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100394_zpsawnsvat1.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100394_zpsawnsvat1.jpg.html)
Assembled, strung with chromes and on shakedown cruise. The wide five (1-7/8" at the nut) naked wenge neck, sanded to 2000, is a treat. Balance is great with front strap button at the 12th fret and weight's not too bad considering the wenge/ebony combo. It's a stiffy!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/1216%20VerZo_zpsv9wf5fac.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/1216%20VerZo_zpsv9wf5fac.jpg.html)
So with this one we send 2016 into the sunset. Sunset Orange Metallic that is. Miss you, Doc!
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That paint job is fantastic!!!! One of the most gorgeous I have seen. NICE work!
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Gibson pickups? Or Thunderbuckers?
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That paint job is fantastic!!!! One of the most gorgeous I have seen. NICE work!
Thanks, Al. I'm looking for something else to paint with it, the metallic particles are a great size and the angle and amount of light really affect it. There's about 28 ounces left out of the quart.
I'll paint any color a customer wants, If I have it, it's free. If not he pays for the paint, and I get another standard color. This color was $100 including shipping. Red pigment is made with real gold, that's why reds are so expensive.
Gibson pickups? Or Thunderbuckers?
ThunderBucker EX5, powdercoated covers.
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What's the EX5? Not mentioned on thunderbuckerranch.
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What's the EX5? Not mentioned on thunderbuckerranch.
EXtended5 Same size can as a 4 but the magnetic field is extended past the magnets with two metal strips.
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I really like the look of that neck. Finish came out very nice too though I'm not a fan of the body shape.
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I really like the look of that neck. Finish came out very nice too though I'm not a fan of the body shape.
The neck is from Warmoth. Black ebony board and wenge shaft added an extra $200 to a $235 neck. I have no tension on the single action truss rod and the neck has almost zero relief, maybe .5mm.
I'm a little concerned about that. It's obvious Warmoth's twin steel rods weren't necessary, would have been better without them but with a double action trussrod IMO. The action is to my liking but maybe not no everyone. It can be raised but I like to add relief as well for even playability all along the fretboard.
If there's a problem, Warmoth is going to hear about it, here and especially on Talk Bass. They shouldn't be selling this combo without a warning IMO. I've been happy with their necks except for the weight but this one is making me nervous...it would make a great twelver neck, though!
As far as the body style, it's been a fun exercise and I like that ergonomically it's fully functional.
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In my limited experience, wenge is very stiff, much more so than maple. Warwick used to use it (maybe they still do) but they didn't use steel rods like Warmoth.
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H-22s I decided to pull the wiring and sort out any problems. This is the '63.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Harmony%20H-22/P1100570_zps3jr2rk1t.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Harmony%20H-22/P1100570_zps3jr2rk1t.jpg.html)
Three pickups, three different baseplate materials. From top, pre '63 (no date stamp), '67, '63
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Harmony%20H-22/P1100571_zpshm4djqxs.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Harmony%20H-22/P1100571_zpshm4djqxs.jpg.html)
All three wiring looms had loose or detached wires to the baritone switch. I resoldered and cleaned all of them plus the pots and jacks, and added a zip tie to keep it all together. No shrink tube back in the day! I would have had to completely desolder everything to use shrink tube.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Harmony%20H-22/P1100573_zpsdgalggxl.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Harmony%20H-22/P1100573_zpsdgalggxl.jpg.html)
Test rig, everything's working. Note black zip tie near strap button.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Harmony%20H-22/P1100572_zpsw3egau7b.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Harmony%20H-22/P1100572_zpsw3egau7b.jpg.html)
I have one bridge for three basses. I'm carving two replacements out of rosewood. Stuck the bridge on the latest pre '63 H-22 and strung it up. I'm really digging it!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/Harmony%20H-22/P1100575_zpsc2ipgwdg.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/Harmony%20H-22/P1100575_zpsc2ipgwdg.jpg.html)
Next will be stripping the previous clear coat, either a veneer or black paint to hide the headstock seams, new nitro clear, and possibly black knobs and bari switch.
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Really nice basses, I like the pickguard, is shaped a bit like Epiphone's "batwing" headstock.
Why didn't you change the complete wiring? I would bet that a wiring this old could cause problems later, even if it is ok now, and fishing pots thru hollow body holes isn't exactly an easy thing to do.
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Really nice basses, I like the pickguard, is shaped a bit like Epiphone's "batwing" headstock.
Why didn't you change the complete wiring? I would bet that a wiring this old could cause problems later, even if it is ok now, and fishing pots thru hollow body holes isn't exactly an easy thing to do.
Thanks, they're great sounding and playing basses
As far as the electronics, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Once you start where do you stop? None of the copper or insulation was corroded or damaged Why not put a modern switch?...and those pickups, why I bet the wire in them is all melted and they'd probably sound better with neo magnets.
Installing the harness for the first bass took ten minutes, the second one took three. They didn't exactly have Chinese girls with tiny fingers working on the assembly line back in the Windy City. The pot holes are 1/2" in diameter and the adjacent F hole made the whole job easy after I got the jack thru the side hole. I used a zip tie as a fish tape for that.
I'm 70, this stuff will outlive me. Everything is functioning perfectly, I can't say that about my prostate. ;D
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Thanks for sharing all of this. Every time I've sold an H-22, I've instantly regretted it and bought another. I cannot afford to make that mistake again. Amazing little basses and rarely do you see one that cannot be saved.
My H22
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y274/prismacolor2/h22.jpg)
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I think we do need a prostrate harnessing forum. Even the outpost caffe might not have toilets close enough.
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Thanks for sharing all of this. Every time I've sold an H-22, I've instantly regretted it and bought another. I cannot afford to make that mistake again. Amazing little basses and rarely do you see one that cannot be saved.
My H22
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y274/prismacolor2/h22.jpg)
That's a Beaut! Definitely a keeper.
This latest one came without original tuners. A complete set with ferrules and screws popped up on Ebay, problem solved. Now I just have to get the carve right on the bridges and the trio will have all their parts.
If you DO get the crazy urge to sell, contact me. I'll either talk you out of it or buy it.
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Prostate problems... the thought of it makes me want to pee...
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I think we do need a prostrate harnessing forum. Even the outpost caffe might not have toilets close enough.
Yep just short conversations.
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Yep just short conversations.
;D
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If you DO get the crazy urge to sell, contact me. I'll either talk you out of it or buy it.
I think you may have enough H22 Basses. These things are getting pricey - I cannot afford that mistake again. Food will always be more important though so you never know.
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I think you may have enough H22 Basses. These things are getting pricey - I cannot afford that mistake again. Food will always be more important though so you never know.
;D...I may have been partially responsible for some of that, even though I've paid less and less for them since buying #1.
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Welcome to 2017, New Odors dept.
This :
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100643P_zpstfbqph2l.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100643P_zpstfbqph2l.jpg.html)
It will be a Fiver with 'Big Bottom' body, one piece blank is crotch walnut. Neck is Ebony on Wenge.
Body shape:
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/01/P1060155P_zpsc0009f9d.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/01/P1060155P_zpsc0009f9d.jpg.html)
...and the Mardi Gras G8R Eighter. Customer saw this photoshop job from a few years ago and wants the exact bass. Color is 'Crown Royal' Metallic Purple.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2013%20Eighter/121314_zpsd752ab71.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2013%20Eighter/121314_zpsd752ab71.jpg.html)
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:popcorn:
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;D
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Beautiful slab of walnut.
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Beautiful slab of walnut.
Thanks, Dave. Customer doesn't wants to leave it unfinished, should be interesting.
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'Wavy Wally' update. Twin Aguilar Ps and assorted hipshot bits to follow. 8.8 lbs so far.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100760_zpsbnz2gevo.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100760_zpsbnz2gevo.jpg.html)
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That's an appropriate name! Looking good.
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Now there's a good looking piece of crotch walnut. No problem to take a long look at either, unlike some other crotches.
https://goo.gl/images/eydRBg
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March MultiString Madness. 32 and counting!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100780_zpsx49oz3wf.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100780_zpsx49oz3wf.jpg.html)
Top to bottom: 34" thru neck Twelver, 34" Eighter, 32" thru neck Twelver.
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G8R Eighter for the USA and Oz bound ebony board NR (courtesy CITES).
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100805_zpsiqhbpnsb.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100805_zpsiqhbpnsb.jpg.html)
Headstock about done.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100818_zpswt45oc94.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100818_zpswt45oc94.jpg.html)
This vacuum pump came with my Onsrud pin router in 2010.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100825_zps0kofsmin.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100825_zps0kofsmin.jpg.html)
I bought two bookmatched 5A flame maple veneer sheets about three years before that. Might be time to put them both to use.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100802_zps9zd8ttlv.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100802_zps9zd8ttlv.jpg.html)
I've always loved the look of Joe's (chromium) Hamer.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/Joes%20Hamer%2012_zpsxqumle3i.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/Joes%20Hamer%2012_zpsxqumle3i.jpg.html)
Walk me out in the mornin' dew...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/Wally%20grass_zps5pumfo54.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/Wally%20grass_zps5pumfo54.jpg.html)
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Looking good!
Those 12 string necks look very interesting.
Double truss rods are something one doesn't see very often.
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Looking good!
Those 12 string necks look very interesting.
Double truss rods are something one doesn't see very often.
Thanks,
Hamer started using them when they were having problems with their multis. Dean and others also use them on 8s and 12s.
Some use them on fivers which is completely unnecessary IMO.
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Love that wavy walnut.
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Love that wavy walnut.
Thanks, just started sanding it. Going to be interesting with no finish whatsoever.
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I hope your customer doesn't come to regret not putting anything on it.
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I hope your customer doesn't come to regret not putting anything on it.
I'm going to take lots of pictures, after that it belongs to the ages. ;D
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I'm going to take lots of pictures, after that it belongs to the ages. ;D
8)
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'Wide Stance' saddle for 12er bridges. Mind the gap!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100851_zpswidrpxoq.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100851_zpswidrpxoq.jpg.html)
One stock, one wide stance per course reduces string spacing making for easier fretting.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100847_zpssrr1k3fn.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100847_zpssrr1k3fn.jpg.html)
Gotoh Resolites and Stealth tuners save 9+ ounces compared to standard tuners.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/Resolite%20Comparo_zpsmo7amvim.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/Resolite%20Comparo_zpsmo7amvim.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/STEALTH%20Comparo_zpsjo4fb817.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/STEALTH%20Comparo_zpsjo4fb817.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100895_zpsyscwtedf.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100895_zpsyscwtedf.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100901_zps6s7s4iog.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100901_zps6s7s4iog.jpg.html)
Eighter ready for finishing.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1100887_zpslkjfbg7i.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1100887_zpslkjfbg7i.jpg.html)
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Just curious, since I'm not an 8- or 12-string guy, is that your own saddle modification or is it something that's commercially available?
Nice of you to remember Sen. Larry "wide stance" Craig. He's remembered (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Senator-Larry-Craig-Memorial-Restroom/158085534212424) on Facebook too.
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Wow man, impressive innovation there on the bridge! And those tiny guitar tuners are interesting.
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Just curious, since I'm not an 8- or 12-string guy, is that your own saddle modification or is it something that's commercially available?
Nice of you to remember Sen. Larry "wide stance" Craig. He's remembered (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Senator-Larry-Craig-Memorial-Restroom/158085534212424) on Facebook too.
The usual suspects were involved, me on the design, Steve on engineering and milling. Started out with 3/8" aluminum bar stock:
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/chips1_zpsrqedjtwd.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/chips1_zpsrqedjtwd.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/chips2_zpsgtc2poes.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/chips2_zpsgtc2poes.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/chips4_zpswpmllpjf.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/chips4_zpswpmllpjf.jpg.html)
Then they get sliced off the 'loaf' in 1/8" pieces and top beveled. Next ones will be brass and less crude. Just wanted proof of concept for these.
Good to know Larry Craig is not forgotten!
Wow man, impressive innovation there on the bridge! And those tiny guitar tuners are interesting.
Thanks, Tom. They list for $140 for six. Supposed to be good up to 44 lbs of tension, I'll find out tomorrow!
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/Stealth-en-1_zpshrdtbei4.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/Stealth-en-1_zpshrdtbei4.jpg.html)
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Steve Milling Bar...?
Big ol' milling grinder, milling it so fine away... :mrgreen:
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Steve Milling Bar...?
Big ol' milling grinder, milling it so fine away... :mrgreen:
Back on yer game Ken
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Very clever solution.
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Very nice!
Eights and Twelves have always intrigued me.
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Big Bottom Wavy Wally is undergoing final set up. Decided to stick with the slab look except for belly contour. The twin Aguilar Ps sound very good, separately and together. Strings are DR Legends. I like them, they seem fairly low tension.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100943P_zpsiwy3rr0x.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100943P_zpsiwy3rr0x.jpg.html)
Slightly different angle really affects the perceived body shape.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100944%20P_zpskem5rl4j.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100944%20P_zpskem5rl4j.jpg.html)
No finish, just sanded from 80 grit to 1000. I'm including a sheet of 1000 for maintenance. :)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100951_zpsjjhepgzb.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100951_zpsjjhepgzb.jpg.html)
With my Ibanez GWB-1. I put a set of Legends on it too.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100950%20copy_zpsykfy35it.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100950%20copy_zpsykfy35it.jpg.html)
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8)
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What a beauty.
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Wavy Wally sound clip. Ampeg B-1 into a '67 B-15 cab with Eminence 15. Recorded on a Zoom Q2N at medium quality.
https://soundcloud.com/dadagoboi/wavy-wallywav
Machined and tapped brass for 12er saddles.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1110009_zpstv4ioq15.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1110009_zpstv4ioq15.jpg.html)
And an OZ bound NR almost ready for paint.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1110018_zpsbs5mgeic.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1110018_zpsbs5mgeic.jpg.html)
...with about the absolute minimum control cavity.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1100995_zpss0mirruj.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1100995_zpss0mirruj.jpg.html)
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Now that is nice... I'd ruin it with my obligatory XLR though... :mrgreen:
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Wavy Wally sounds great!
Shame you had to remove so much wood for that NR's control cavity.
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Wavy Wally sounds great!
Shame you had to remove so much wood for that NR's control cavity.
Thanks, Dave. That Zoom is amazing. I set it about 3 feet in front of the cabinet, spent 30 seconds getting a level and done. Less than $160 delivered. I haven't tried the video cam but the stuff I've seen on Youtube is really good.
The control cavity was fun, I did one like it about 8 years ago. It was easier this time.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1100992_zps6egfhora.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1100992_zps6egfhora.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1100993_zpsaudk7kgh.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1100993_zpsaudk7kgh.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1110007_zpsyzkljpzw.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1110007_zpsyzkljpzw.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1110005_zpspaajt0ft.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1110005_zpspaajt0ft.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1100990_zpsb0h1eypb.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1100990_zpsb0h1eypb.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1100996_zpsn13fjdgw.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1100996_zpsn13fjdgw.jpg.html)
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I'm impressed by the sound quality, especially at that price.
What type of bit do you use for that long channel from the jack to the pickup? No doubt using the shopsmith as a horizontal drill helps a lot, but there's always the tendency of standard twist drill bits to wander.
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I'm impressed by the sound quality, especially at that price.
What type of bit do you use for that long channel from the jack to the pickup? No doubt using the shopsmith as a horizontal drill helps a lot, but there's always the tendency of standard twist drill bits to wander.
Yeah, I just had to give the Zoom a try after seeing a Remco Hendrix video of one and then checking out Youtube vids.
I cut a 36" long 5/16" dia. regular twist bit down to 18" and made sure the table was absolutely parallel to the bit. Then I stacked 1-1/2" thick scrap on the way tubes of the shopsmith until the bit rested on it to keep it from deflecting. I think the 5/16" diameter was a big help. It was part of a $10 3 piece set from Harbor Freight...have to confess it came out better than expected. Last time I used a 1/4" bit that wasn't very sharp in a hand drill. It wandered off.
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It's rather an inspiration to see a Shopsmith used so well! It's a pretty darn fine tool if used carefully.
I have (and use) my dad's 1954 Shopsmith, with original warranty papers and owner's manual. It was purchased at Carr Hardware in Ames, Iowa and cost $276 including the optional rollers. Prices have changed a bit since then.
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Around here you can buy shopsmiths in great shape at amazingly low prices.
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Around here you can buy shopsmiths in great shape at amazingly low prices.
I paid $200 for this one about 9 years ago, it's an early 90's model and came with original docs and 2 big Shopsmith 'How To' binders as well as all the standard accessories. Mainly I use it for horizontal boring these days as I've reacquired more dedicated machines.
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Just don't see those here... :sad:
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I have the Shopsmith,and the band saw add-on. That's a really handy unit. I don't do a lot of stuff, so its versatility is a very good thing.
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For sale locally: https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/csw/tls/6091698626.html
OTOH there's always at least one seller who thinks he can get almost what he paid b/c new ones are so much more expensive. Sure, pal.
Now back to your regularly scheduled thread.
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Wow, that's a SCREAMIN' deal!!
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Cardinal Red acrylic lacquer
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1110107_zpskru63ypn.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1110107_zpskru63ypn.jpg.html)
Crown Royal Purple (Blue?) Metallic nitro nitro(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1110090_zpsmjde5lm5.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1110090_zpsmjde5lm5.jpg.html)
Glasnost
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/P1110109_zpsankgewuw.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/P1110109_zpsankgewuw.jpg.html)
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The purple looks like it has metal in it?
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The purple looks like it has metal in it?
Yes, quite a bit. There's a lot of color shift depending on light angle.
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Love the purple.
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Love the purple.
Me too! Carlo ya' just keep gettin' better and better.
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Me too! Carlo ya' just keep gettin' better and better.
Or farther and farther from normal. I just took an order for a Gretsch Pink Champagne Sparkle with gold hardware MAX.
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Or farther and farther from normal. I just took an order for a Gretsch Pink Champagne Sparkle with gold hardware MAX.
That sounds like Mark, but it's not a T-bird so it can't be.
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Or farther and farther from normal. I just took an order for a Gretsch Pink Champagne Sparkle with gold hardware MAX.
I have a partial on that. The PG material is the same Pink Champagne Sparkle laminate Ludwig used on their drums.
(https://i.imgbox.com/pgGimWdt.jpg)
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That sounds like Mark, but it's not a T-bird so it can't be.
Actually, It's my version. like this...
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/03/Z%20MAX_zpsucu2q0iu.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/03/Z%20MAX_zpsucu2q0iu.jpg.html)
But with pearloid blocks on ebony fretboard, reverse headstock,rasied center, and gold pickguard to match the hardware.
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I have a partial on that. The PG material is the same Pink Champagne Sparkle laminate Ludwig used on their drums.
Nice! I've heard the Gretsch paint color described as 'shell pink' metalflake pearl. I'm looking forward to sourcing or mixing it.
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Happy Birthday Carlo!
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Happy Birthday Carlo!
Not for a few months unless my memory is REALLY shot. But thanks, Bob! ;D
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(hippies) :mrgreen:
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Happy Birthday Carlo!
Carlo and I are the same age. Don't make us any crankier than we already are by aging us more.
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Carlo and I are the same age. Don't make us any crankier than we already are by aging us more.
;D
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Are we talking cheap plonk or fine wine...? :mrgreen:
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Spector to Spectre...more stealth, less plastic coated clownburst quilt.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1100667_zpsilvpkhpg.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1100667_zpsilvpkhpg.jpg.html)
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/00%20Verzo%205/P1110112P_zpswyghxgt8.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/00%20Verzo%205/P1110112P_zpswyghxgt8.jpg.html)
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Looks better already.
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;D
:vader:
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The Purple People Eighter on its shakedown cruise.
(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae241/cata1d0/2016%20Twelver/P1110190_zpsmo3ottkl.jpg) (http://s976.photobucket.com/user/cata1d0/media/2016%20Twelver/P1110190_zpsmo3ottkl.jpg.html)
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That is just nice!
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That is just nice!
Thanks, Bob. Sounds good, too!
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How's it wired? Are those three concentric pots?
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How's it wired? Are those three concentric pots?
Mono with 3 concentrics. Jazz single coil in the bridge. The neck 'bucker is hotter than the middle one, big bottom when soloed. There's a lot of variation keeping all 3 pups between 7 and 9.5 in volume and working the tone pot on each.
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Nice clean look to the controls. Much better than several mini-switches.
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Very nice... but still too many controls... :vader: :mrgreen:
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Been away for a while, joined a Maoist Freedom Fighter Brigade in preparation for moving production back to the PRC. At it in the swamp until after Spring Festival (AKA "Chinese New Year).
NR52 and G8R 122NT
(http://i.imgur.com/BOf5Dfd.jpg)
Neck carve with raised center:
(http://i.imgur.com/0xYgMGl.jpg)
Bookmatched cap and body wings.
(http://i.imgur.com/PTxfNC6.jpg)
Trans Jade on the Fiver waiting for topcoats
(http://i.imgur.com/kDMOp8Y.jpg)
Twelver will be getting a JadeBurst.
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That Jade stain is nice on its' own too!
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Everyone's moving to China... gotta be better than going to the dogs... ;)
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Everyone's moving to China... gotta be better than going to the dogs... ;)
You can do that , too. Via high speed rail even.
JadeFade done. Faux binding. Body/Neck combo weighs 6.4 lbs. Should be under 8.5 when completed.
(http://i.imgur.com/8vUNIkH.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/xLaq9Cr.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/F94aqDn.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/liJZoNB.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/n1KRZ4I.jpg)
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Gorgeous...
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Thats a cool finish !
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I love how the back looks with the contouring. That'd make a really pretty front of an instrument. A cool variant of your RNR.
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As usual, beautemous work!!
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Thanks for the compliments, guys!
Basses Passing in the Night...Raw MAX42 and colorsanded to 12000 micromesh G8R 122
(https://i.imgur.com/2xslSc8.jpg)
MAX after the gold treatment. Off the shelf for pickups and tuners,etc. Caswell brushplate kit 23K for rings, tailpiece and bridge channel.
(https://i.imgur.com/fDR87f2.jpg)
Finish will be Gretsch Champagne Sparkle.
G8R buffed with Megiar's Ultimate Compound.
(https://i.imgur.com/obpgw4U.jpg)
Bridge is a Schaller 471-8 modded with 4 wider brass saddle for tighter string spacing. Click for closeups.
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8)
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Here today, gone tomorrow.
9.2 lbs. ThunderBucker 66 pickups, twin stacked pots, Gotoh Resolite/Stealth tuners. 34" scale, fits in a standard case.
(https://i.imgur.com/LNCj9wD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8Nsbm8b.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UlrlMh1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/F4p7taE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9MREw0Z.jpg)
All Basses, All the Time.
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Fantastic work!
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Beautiful work. Also really like the key choices and setup.
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Amazing. I bet TP would love this.
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Gorgeous... 8)
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Thanks, guys!
Here's a clip made less than an hour after customer unpacked the bass.
https://soundcloud.com/dadagoboi/cataldo-g8r-12-noodles
(https://i.imgur.com/L4G2IHF.jpg)
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Sounds as good as it looks. Multi-course basses are like an instrument unto themselves. I tried using my 8 string in my band, but our violinist and guitarist have such massive, saturated overdrive tones, the effect just gets lost.
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Sounds as good as it looks. Multi-course basses are like an instrument unto themselves. I tried using my 8 string in my band, but our violinist and guitarist have such massive, saturated overdrive tones, the effect just gets lost.
Thanks, Tom. You're right, doesn't leave a lot of space for other instruments unless everyone's on the same page. But in the right hands I think there's a place for them if you're a composer and building your own tracks in a studio. Can eliminate the necessity for arpeggios or sustained chords played on keys or guitar...bass, not so much! This one's spaced extra wide between the courses so you can pick out a bass line with upstrokes if you work at it.
All in all, fun to play!
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What are the gauges and tuning like? I love how it sounds.
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What are the gauges and tuning like? I love how it sounds.
http://daddario.com/DADProductDetail.Page?ActiveID=3769&productid=137&productname=EXL170_12_Nickel_Wound_12_String_Bass__Light__18_45&sid=b7219b07-4286-44c5-88dc-f61f5105b06d
Four courses: Eee Aaa Ddd Ggg The lighter strings are an octave higher.
I spaced the courses really tight so it's easier to fret three strings at once.
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More Twelver noise
https://soundcloud.com/bill-holder-942023694/wild-horses-intro
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8)
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Pinkie shortly before takeoff to San Clemente, CA.
(https://i.imgur.com/EBGvYac.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qSi4uaS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/I9S2iGL.jpg)
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Thant's nothing but SWEET!
and. . . . the trees are back 8).
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Thant's nothing but SWEET!
and. . . . the trees are back 8).
Thanks! Yep, trees. That sparkle finish was difficult to photograph. I'm having the same problem with this one, metallic gold with a dust of sparkle.
(https://i.imgur.com/MY2CLpL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8Fusskt.jpg)
Customer changed the color from black cherry pearl to gold. Neck is rosewood shaft/ebony fretboard.
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Pinkie shortly before takeoff to San Clemente, CA.
(https://i.imgur.com/I9S2iGL.jpg)
That is absolutely killer. :toast:
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8) 8) 8)
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It has been great to watch your business grow and all the candy crush you make
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It has been great to watch your business grow and all the candy crush you make
Thanks! It's been fun!
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Another year, another NR. This one a refurbed 2012 off to Nashville.
(https://i.imgur.com/sPUoo1I.jpg)
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I don't particularly like light blue but I could make an exception :)
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How'd she result in a refurb job, Carlo...?
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Those NR basses look great in Frost Blue. Good to see a bass not go to waste.
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Are 5 strings thunder buckers wider than 4 strings?
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Beautiful work, as always!
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Are 5 strings thunder buckers wider than 4 strings?
No, they have a wide magnetic field due to the metal case and magnet extensions on the coils.
I'm doing this build with Aguilar 35 series pickups which are also spec'd for 'narrow' Fivers. It also gets an Aguilar 18v Preamp We'll see how it turns out.
(https://i.imgur.com/2nGZgXq.jpg)
Here's a northern ash JAE42 body with red "dog hair" finish.
First, black paint.
(https://i.imgur.com/0M1uzg4.jpg)
Then clear lacquer washcoat and drywall compound rubbed into the grain
(https://i.imgur.com/sCNrWMh.jpg)
Lacquer, red rub, lacquer, red rub, lacquer.
(https://i.imgur.com/YxK5hxd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3ptiOuY.jpg)
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Wow!
I really like those.
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That is simply gorgeous
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Thanks, guys! 'ska' pickguard per customer request. White .060" blank, masking tape strips, .3mm pencil, exacto knife, black and clear lacquer.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q3zqvwN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/n6W84B0.jpg)
installed with neo magnets so batteries can be easily accessed.
(https://i.imgur.com/bnTTzLF.jpg)
24 fret pau ferro fretboard. This one's going to Switzerland, no rosewood allowed w/o license.
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Trussrod cover time. .015 self stick black cut out with surgical scissors and applied to .030 styrene modeler's plastic. Line drawn around the black with .3mm drafting pencil using a flexible .065 D string for spacing.
(https://i.imgur.com/mNeJ1HX.jpg)
Trimmed to the line with 3 TPI bandsaw blade.
(https://i.imgur.com/TH686C8.jpg)
Finished up with flat file.
(https://i.imgur.com/0PRu1EO.jpg)
The Allparts lightweight tuners are made in the same Korean factory as Hipshot's import Ultralites. Advantage: two mounting screws.
(https://i.imgur.com/jFSOH9A.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HeuCFUg.jpg)
I also like the open gear housing as well as lack of a logo. Powdercoat black are satin instead of flat, which I also prefer.
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Thanx for the tip Carlo. I didn't know Allparts had lightweight tuners too.
I've been using Schaller BM lightweight tuners and Schaller M4 lightweight tuners. But it's good to know more sources for lightweight tuners. :toast:
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Thanx for the tip Carlo. I didn't know Allparts had lightweight tuners too.
I've been using Schaller BM lightweight tuners and Schaller M4 lightweight tuners. But it's good to know more sources for lightweight tuners. :toast:
You're welcome, Rob. AP added them a few months ago. They have straight string posts, Ultralites have a slight taper top to bottom. 3/8" and 1/2". Price is really good, less than import Ultralites with dealer discount.
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They are kinda hard to find. I had to search quite deep into the Allparts site to find them.
First I only found the lollipop ones.
I like that fact that it has straight posts!
Price I found was $ 15 each, right?
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They are kinda hard to find. I had to search quite deep into the Allparts site to find them.
First I only found the lollipop ones.
I like that fact that it has straight posts!
Price I found was $ 15 each, right?
The AP site is frustrating sometimes but getting better. $15 retail. Dealer/builder cost is $7.50
An advantage for me is I buy many items at a time from AP so shipping is less as a percentage of total cost than when I buy from Hipshot.
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Getting into veneer and binding, it's fun and adds a lot of bang for the buck.
(https://i.imgur.com/Brfg6Uk.jpg)
Reclaimed NR 52 Fiver body with fumed oak veneer on poplar and MAX122 Twelver with flamed oak on mahogany.
JAE42 done and gone.
(https://i.imgur.com/HSj1Ch2.jpg)
55P/ThunderBucker mashup will get a heavy CAR relic treatment for Uli in Hamburg. '63 spec neck pickup is 1/4" from Gisbon sweet spot.
(https://i.imgur.com/KszUvA0.jpg)
Reworked RNR122 with new Twelver bridge/tailpiece combo.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ux9v1pV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m8s3EF5.jpg)
34" Six string to 10 string (BEADx2) neck conversion.
(https://i.imgur.com/awljllx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oJTzUzE.jpg)
Other than that May was a slow month. ;D
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Sweltering in the Swamp time... :mrgreen:
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These keep getting better and better!
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Sweltering in the Swamp time... :mrgreen:
Today over 100 with heat index, 90+ without.
These keep getting better and better!
Thanks, Bob! If it ain't fun, I ain't doing it. ;D
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I like the veneers and banding, I've done a lot of fuming over the years but never seen oak go that dark before, was it fumed before pressing? Mahogany fumes quite well too, not as dramatic as that but it gains a deeper reddy purple colour that looks very rich when sprayed.
What are you using for a veneer press? Knowing you something as cool as that pin router of yours :)
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I have a soft spot for bindings so I really like those a lot. That fumed oak veneer should look great clear coated.
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I like the veneers and banding, I've done a lot of fuming over the years but never seen oak go that dark before, was it fumed before pressing? Mahogany fumes quite well too, not as dramatic as that but it gains a deeper reddy purple colour that looks very rich when sprayed.
What are you using for a veneer press? Knowing you something as cool as that pin router of yours :)
This is a great US source for veneer and tutorials:
www.veneersupplies.com/
He also sells vacuum veneer press components. I considered that option since I have a vacuum pump that was included with the pin router. But I decided to keep it simple. Two body blanks, 4 crowned cauls and 10 clamps. about one hour to 'construct' it.
(https://i.imgur.com/ul7TYTX.jpg)
The fumed oak came that way. I bought 9 sheets, 14" x 42" for around $40 on a closeout from the above vendor. Also a'starter kit' of essential veneer supplies. Including some other veneer (100" 14" wide once its bookmatched flame maple) I'm under $200 total for materials, tools and supplies.
Flamed oak matched and taped.
(https://i.imgur.com/JMTRBb0.jpg)
Binding: For the channel:Router table made from melamined particle board shelving, Porter Cable router, and rabbet bit (1/2" shank) and mutiple bearings direct from China. $12. I don't do Screw Mac. It's much easier to cut binding channel with a table set up than what seems to be the traditional hand held over the top router method. Acetone for cementing ABS binding in applicator bottle and super masking tape.
(https://i.imgur.com/rdHYaPF.jpg)
Takes less then a minute for the acetone to set the binding, lots of Youtube tutorials out there. My twist is using an applicator bottle instead of a brush for the acetone.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZJ0F5KD.jpg)
I have a soft spot for bindings so I really like those a lot. That fumed oak veneer should look great clear coated.
Yeah , I agree, there is a lot of depth in the oak that will come out with clearcoating. Next time I'll bookmatch it. There's also other possibilities...
(https://i.imgur.com/r9eAtPN.jpg)
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Color Time
Oak flame veneer on mahogany with cream binding for the Twelver. I used the cut offs from the rectangular body blanks after the prelim tests on scrap veneer.
(https://i.imgur.com/aDzfgUO.jpg)
After a few hours of fun and games I decided a red background would be best. A fifty cent bottle of latex craft paint from Wally World to be specific. They have at least a jillion colors.
(https://i.imgur.com/9UFCaY1.jpg)
Let dry for a few minutes and sanded back with 180
(https://i.imgur.com/IbqWMZK.jpg)
'Artisan' dye thinned about 10:1 with denatured alcohol. One ounce for around $4 and it goes a long way. Reasonable shipping, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/I0BTD8Q.jpg)
Grain is starting to pop after a few minutes.
(https://i.imgur.com/zg2mYCE.jpg)
Money shot! A few coats of clear over the stained woods and binding. Mohawk 'Red' Ultra Penetrating Stain for the mahogany.
(https://i.imgur.com/YjDmqMr.jpg)
Trick of the light, note how blue the purple stain can look depending on what is or isn't under it.
(https://i.imgur.com/oYDZNa1.jpg)
BLART!
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This is a great US source for veneer and tutorials:
www.veneersupplies.com/
He also sells vacuum veneer press components. I considered that option since I have a vacuum pump that was included with the pin router. But I decided to keep it simple. Two body blanks, 4 crowned cauls and 10 clamps. about one hour to 'construct' it.
(https://i.imgur.com/ul7TYTX.jpg)
The fumed oak came that way. I bought 9 sheets, 14" x 42" for around $40 on a closeout from the above vendor. Also a'starter kit' of essential veneer supplies. Including some other veneer (100" 14" wide once its bookmatched flame maple) I'm under $200 total for materials, tools and supplies.
Flamed oak matched and taped.
(https://i.imgur.com/JMTRBb0.jpg)
Binding: For the channel:Router table made from melamined particle board shelving, Porter Cable router, and rabbet bit (1/2" shank) and mutiple bearings direct from China. $12. I don't do Screw Mac. It's much easier to cut binding channel with a table set up than what seems to be the traditional hand held over the top router method. Acetone for cementing ABS binding in applicator bottle and super masking tape.
(https://i.imgur.com/rdHYaPF.jpg)
Takes less then a minute for the acetone to set the binding, lots of Youtube tutorials out there. My twist is using an applicator bottle instead of a brush for the acetone.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZJ0F5KD.jpg)
Yeah , I agree, there is a lot of depth in the oak that will come out with clearcoating. Next time I'll bookmatch it. There's also other possibilities...
(https://i.imgur.com/r9eAtPN.jpg)
I can recommend a vacuum press, I have one, quite old now, maybe 25 years or so since I bought it, been through a few bags over the years but they do a lot of work before they wear out. I thought you may have picked up an old flatbed press somewhere which is why I asked :)
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I can recommend a vacuum press, I have one, quite old now, maybe 25 years or so since I bought it, been through a few bags over the years but they do a lot of work before they wear out. I thought you may have picked up an old flatbed press somewhere which is why I asked :)
My mantra is 'Yesterday's Technology Tomorrow. A press is overkill for veneering flat surfaces in small runs IMO. I barely use the pin router these days, almost every bass is custom to some extent.
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Got the B to G 10 string sorted. So much fun I decided to put a (fake) trem on the prototype.
(https://i.imgur.com/R7vKYUD.jpg)
Named 'Gojira' in honor of my grandson Enzo's favorite monster.
MAX12er on a shakedown cruise before finishing.
(https://i.imgur.com/FmoaUje.jpg)
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8) 8)
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Body studies for Gojira
(https://i.imgur.com/24hTbZ9.jpg)
Blank is 14x20.
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Body studies for Gojira
(http://www.deepseanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/10171768_10152469421444047_7019418286309094905_n4.jpg)
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Voting for the lizard on the left.
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(http://www.deepseanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/10171768_10152469421444047_7019418286309094905_n4.jpg)
Looks like Gojira is a true boomer!
Voting for the lizard on the left.
Thanks, that's the direction I'm leaning.
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Color test acrylic paint used as stain/grain filler. I went with 'petunia purple' and thinned purple alcohol based stain.
(https://i.imgur.com/6cwUogR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8E8bGDJ.jpg)
sealer and first piano lacquer clear nitro
(https://i.imgur.com/rK8ufT5.jpg)
MAX122 finishing done. Mahogany stained with Mohawk UPS 'RED' and cleared with their 'Piano Lacquer'.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ky7Er5f.jpg)
No trussrod cover on this one. Too difficult to remove the screws under 12 strings. Template for logo plate slotted for TR access.
(https://i.imgur.com/NI7vsHx.jpg)
Gojira proto with 63NV and 66SV ThunderBuckers. 'V' are the extended width Five string versions. They cover all ten strings. Waiting on bridge channel and tailpiece.
(https://i.imgur.com/1kpaX8w.jpg)
Toned '55 neck, no clear or sealer. This will be a heavy relic with a CAR headstock, why put on what's coming off?
(https://i.imgur.com/IJ2dG1v.jpg)
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About ready to ship. This one took more time than it should have but customer has been very patient.
(https://i.imgur.com/gSsH1G5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oTbJXUw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GKNLBbL.jpg)
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Love it man. Killer color scheme. Reminds me of a trio of beautiful Hamers I once saw.
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Love it man. Killer color scheme. Reminds me of a trio of beautiful Hamers I once saw.
Thanks, Tom! There does seem to be a niche that Hamer vacated in the multi string market that hasn't been filled. Not that there's much demand...
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Excellent work!
What bridge is that Carlo?
I've been asked to build a twelve string bass too. But man, those bridge are hard to find!
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Excellent work!
What bridge is that Carlo?
I've been asked to build a twelve string bass too. But man, those bridge are hard to find!
Thanks, Rob.
I start with a Schaller 471-8, cut p and drill the base to get rid of the springs, ThunderBucker makes me the nickel silver bridge channel and tailpiece blanks and I drill the necessary string and mounting holes. I powdercoated the nickel silver parts on this bass including pickup covers and rings. These pics shows the details better.
(https://i.imgur.com/m8s3EF5.jpg)
working on the prototype
(https://i.imgur.com/upLVzV1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Zs1F5fn.jpg)
I've done the same for 10/15 strings by adding another module. I'm waiting for longer,wider bridge channels and tailpieces for those.
I make my own saddles to get the string spacing tighter.
(https://i.imgur.com/Vjchp0E.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BEkdXZT.jpg)
Schaller also makes black 471-8 bridges.
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That's ingenious! :toast:
I noticed the tailpiece hole pattern doesn't match the bridge saddle spacing? Is that why you decided to not use the last hole and put the two octave strings on the G in one hole together?
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That's ingenious! :toast:
I noticed the tailpiece hole pattern doesn't match the bridge saddle spacing? Is that why you decided to not use the last hole and put the two octave strings on the G in one hole together?
Thanks, it took me four years before the light went on as to how I could get the look and function I wanted.
Nice eye...yes, that's the prototype 12 tailpiece, I don't know what happened. I rerouted the neck pocket on a 4 string RNR to fit a wider 22 fret 12er neck. The anchors and tailpiece holes were in the correct place for the new bridge and tailpiece. But one 2mm hole I couldn't get right. Fixed on the current bass and got the Tenner right on the first proto.
(https://i.imgur.com/1kpaX8w.jpg)
Those five string ThunderBuckers cover all 10 strings. That was a pleasant surprise!
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The business end wiith properly drilled string holes. ;D
(https://i.imgur.com/YT9FxWB.jpg)
One piece alder blank for the next Big Bottom Wide Fiver...don't they all look like this?
(https://i.imgur.com/2WCaUIN.jpg)
Amazing what a wipe with vitamin water will do!
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Beautiful!
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Vitamin water??
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Vitamin water??
Gwyneth was pushing it on QVC, I couldn't resist. Seriously, just plain water. Here's what he back looks like dry.
(https://i.imgur.com/Vmzabxj.jpg)
Customer wants a 'vintage tint' finish, it will probably be close to the look of the wet pic.
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That looks really nice.
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So, the Tenner is a go! Got a
victim customer to push it over the top and give the prototype a home.
Epi bolt on body:
(https://i.imgur.com/eIoOISj.jpg)
Full speed ahead on the fin/refin.
Fill the 3 point holes with Durham's 'Rock Hard' Water Putty and recontour heel and lower horn. Fill pg holes with plastic dowel
(https://i.imgur.com/GFgSXuo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5q9p6so.jpg)
"Ebonize" Fretboard with Fiebing's leather dye and sharpie unnecessary dots. Waiting on some black 1/4" replacement ones fom Les Ismore to complete the illusion.
(https://i.imgur.com/nMN3fU5.jpg)
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I love the idea Carlo! :toast:
But do think that bridge set needs some extra attention.
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I love the idea Carlo! :toast:
But do think that bridge set needs some extra attention.
Thanks, Rob!
That's a prototype tailpiece made from aluminum stock. Ditto the bridge channel. Customer has faith I'll clean it up, understands he's buying a prototype...this isn't his first Cataldo. Both production parts are polished nickel silver.
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Ah! That makes sense. Excellent! :toast:
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Mixed up some Polaris White Nitro. Basically Pure White with a bit of yellow and Burnt Sienna pigment.
(https://i.imgur.com/iBofB4w.jpg)
Pure white undercoat on top of sanded spot primed mods. Plenty of poly base on the untouched original finish. 61% humidity and 90F. Better painting through chemistry. Flash Off leveling solvent and No Blush retarder in 'slow' lacquer thinner.
(https://i.imgur.com/0EK6EMr.jpg)
One coat Polaris white, Two coats clear nitro Piano Lacquer. Done.
(https://i.imgur.com/0R3nupI.jpg)
My '64 in the background, naturally yellowed after a Polaris White refin about 10 years ago.
(https://i.imgur.com/ayafFyO.jpg)
Geezer Dots...because who isn't?
(https://i.imgur.com/5qQjReR.jpg)
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I really like the yellowed Polaris white on there.
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I really like the yellowed Polaris white on there.
Thanks, Rob!
Old school Candy Apple Red. Didspade pigments.
Samples done on white and black pickguard material and gray primer
(https://i.imgur.com/dVflZpU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/B9u3kDs.jpg)
Gray as the base it is, no pic. trust me.
Gold base (flat gold pearl in acrylic lacquer
(https://i.imgur.com/B0aA5VD.jpg)
Bloodshot red and a smidgeon of blue candy color in clear lacquer
(https://i.imgur.com/mCaSuCZ.jpg)
Two coats clear over the candy toner. Results 'off the gun'
(https://i.imgur.com/bQmUhPr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2w9OwSV.jpg)
Let the relicing commence (oh, the horror)...
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Love it...! :mrgreen:
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Cataldo/ThunderBucker 10 string bridge and tailpiece for the Tenner TBird proto.
(https://i.imgur.com/jEnKTUB.jpg)
From bottom left, clockwise
Prototype tailpiece I made from aluminum channel.
Nickel Silver blank fabbed at ThunderBucker Ranch in Dedford, Oregon.
Blank drilled (18 holes), countersunk, and polished in the swamp.
Completed bridge assembly, Nickel silver channel, AL insert, and modded saddle carrier assemblies from a pair of Schaller 471-8 bridges. Hopefully I'll find a use for the other three carriers.
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(https://i.imgur.com/dS4fFbC.jpg)
34"scale Tbird that fits in a Fender case. I 'ebonized' the fretboard with Fiebings after cleaning thoroughly with denatured alcohol. It works!
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Ebonized rosewood?
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That just looks a true Beast, Carlo... :mrgreen:
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Ebonized rosewood?
Jatoba. It's a modded Ibanez six string neck made in Indonesia. Dual trussrod. They'll back bow a 45-130 fundamental/19-56 octave string set.
(https://i.imgur.com/axo7pvL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TDvDgT1.jpg)
1/32" 3 ply aviation grade plywood front and back. No flex under tension
(https://i.imgur.com/KbmXYQD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oJTzUzE.jpg)
Geezer Dots. 1/8" plastruct.
(https://i.imgur.com/5qQjReR.jpg)
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Preliminary setup. L.A. trip and Hurricane Michael put me behind schedule. I really like the way lemon oiled Jatoba looks.
(https://i.imgur.com/E608lJU.jpg)
Ebony board on the 12er.
(https://i.imgur.com/VEnW3RW.jpg)
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8) 8) 8)
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Very nice, but I got to admit my heart pounds a bit harder/faster for that yellowed out Bicee. :P
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Very nice, but I got to admit my heart pounds a bit harder/faster for that yellowed out Bicee. :P
I bought its twin new in 1977, straight traded it around '83 for a '77 StingRay which I still have. Dave facilitated acquiring this one from the original owner around five years ago. Compared to my '64s it's lacking. Heavier, cruder in execution, and weak pickups in comparison to my '64s. But I guess that's to be expected in a Reissue.
(https://i.imgur.com/QAiEAsQ.jpg)
I modded a bridge to fit two of the three point posts on the BiCen, that helps.
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5 years ago? I didn't think it had been that long, so I looked in my old emails. April 2012!
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5 years ago? I didn't think it had been that long, so I looked in my old emails. April 2012!
Time flies...faster and faster these days.
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The guy was a salesman/estimator for a remodeling company, he came to my house to measure for replacement windows and noticed my gear. He mentioned having the Bird and I think I posted about it here. That's how it started. He needed the money, you needed the bass.
AFAIK he's still playing in the far northern suburbs here.
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The guy was a salesman/estimator for a remodeling company, he came to my house to measure for replacement windows and noticed my gear. He mentioned having the Bird and I think I posted about it here. That's how it started. He needed the money, you needed the bass.
AFAIK he's still playing in the far northern suburbs here.
He was really conscientious about touching up dings and scratches, it's in good shape for a bass that was heavily gigged.
CAUTION: RELIC AHEAD
#0000 steel wool
(https://i.imgur.com/DmEqMBO.jpg)
Aging pickguard with dyestain.
(https://i.imgur.com/BkE2WQd.jpg)
Fneder RI '55 for location. Maple finger rest from headstock scrap. Muriatic acid vapor bath for nickel and chrome.
(https://i.imgur.com/awYGT5r.jpg)
WTF?
(https://i.imgur.com/vaHb0FS.jpg)
crop circle just like my '55 only it had a black guard on blonde.
(https://i.imgur.com/Cw4Q5Nd.jpg)
rattlecan black, sandpaper, yellow dyestain, and Minwax Jacobean stain for dirt.
(https://i.imgur.com/zT0QxZw.jpg)
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I know you used to be in the hi-end furniture biz over in the East but you didn't "have to leave" due to forgery reasons, did you my Don...? :mrgreen:
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I know you used to be in the hi-end furniture biz over in the East but you didn't "have to leave" due to forgery reasons, did you my Don...? :mrgreen:
:) :).
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Done and gone to Hamburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/9rp42Tu.jpg)
Big string ferrules finally in the marketplace
(https://i.imgur.com/xNG0PPs.jpg)
Peaks filed into the saddles to improve intonation.
(https://i.imgur.com/7Qv89Uy.jpg)
Muriatic acid fumed nickel and chrome.
(https://i.imgur.com/Qew9rZ2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Tc5ZGBt.jpg)
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Bet that is one fine sounding bass...
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Nicely done, and unique as usual.
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Wow that looks awesome.
Hmm... was this the inspiration? I remembered this, Watt's old '56 from back in the fIREHOSE days...
(http://www.hootpage.com/56pbass_180602.jpg)
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Wow that looks awesome.
Hmm... was this the inspiration? I remembered this, Watt's old '56 from back in the fIREHOSE days...
(http://www.hootpage.com/56pbass_180602.jpg)
I'v probably seen that bass, but no. I've built a number of basses for Uli Salm, starting with JAEbirds, REVs, and the MAX prototype. This was the last build for him.
(https://i.imgur.com/EmaOY4Z.jpg)
Slab body with gut cut, Jazz neck.
So this one is a progression from that. Uli owns a lot of second generation Precisions so he wanted a contoured body but with a J profile neck and TBird pups. The concept was the pups and refin were done in the late 60s and then it was well played.
That's an Allparts 'Tele' neck shaved and tapered to 1-1/2" at the nut. He was OK with either a TBird bridge or the two saddle. I owned a 55 and thought the two saddle adequate so I did it that way.
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Large coolness factor!
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Very much +1
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Two Thunderbuckers have got to sound better than any P/J combo.
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Two Thunderbuckers have got to sound better than any P/J combo.
ThunderBucker 63 in the neck. DiMarzio jazz under TB cover in bridge, Uli wanted more treble output. Balance isn't perfect but there are a lot of tones available.
SwampFest '18...shaking down the REV102 Tenner
(https://i.imgur.com/HfNL6nm.jpg)
ThunderBuckers wouldn't quite cover the string spread. So I went with Aguilar G3 40 series, 4 inches wide.
(https://i.imgur.com/9dthfJ8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/96MXbjj.jpg)
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Now, my Don, all you need for the next photoshoot, is a crisp white shirt, a tux, and maybe, just maybe, a single red rose... ;)
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Now, my Don, all you need for the next photoshoot, is a crisp white shirt, a tux, and maybe, just maybe, a single red rose... ;)
I'd settle for a photographer. ;)
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I'd settle for a photographer. ;)
:toast:
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Next up, OXbird and BigBottom wide 5.
(https://i.imgur.com/rGkB9YW.jpg)
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Coool. Photos like that always make me wonder... What do you do with the scrap after you cut a body?
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Coool. Photos like that always make me wonder... What do you do with the scrap after you cut a body?
Sometime I can use them but mostly they just pile up. The poplar Oxbird uses two cutoffs for the lower body triangles and there's going to be a big piece from the top once I cut it out. It'g getting painted
The BigBottom II is one piece spalted Alder. It smells like a cross between artichokes, wet grass clippings, and brown paper towel when I route it. Really soft and light even though its a hair under 2 inches thick and about 10-15% larger than a precision body.
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I'd settle for a photographer. ;)
I'm the wrong side of the Pond, my Don, and then there's the Swamp and them big-tooth critters that live in it... :mrgreen:
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.... and then there's the Swamp and them big-tooth critters that live in it... :mrgreen:
Washington DC? :mrgreen:
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Naw... that's wee cousin Domhnall Iain's turf... :mrgreen:
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BiggerBottom, 16" lower bout. Customer OK'd it but wants to keep the 4+1 headstock. No problem, there's always photoshop.
(https://i.imgur.com/uxYLej9.jpg)
Headstock roughed out.
(https://i.imgur.com/UeNek5g.jpg)
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V 8)
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Black Friday. Quick Refin of a 20 year old Warmoth alder 5 string P for a good customer.. ill dings with super glue sand, black primer surfacer and 3 coats gloss acrylic clear lacquer.
(https://i.imgur.com/SkqLn0N.jpg)
Holes filled with toothpick (small) and .125 plastruct (large). Raised center is 3 ply aircraft grade birch plywood.
(https://i.imgur.com/KfbzhQX.jpg)
Arctic white with same acrylic clear. No yellowing on this one!
(https://i.imgur.com/6714yA6.jpg)
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With apologies, my Don, but what goes in the gaping hole where the bridge lives on the P...? :o
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With apologies, my Don, but what goes in the gaping hole where the bridge lives on the P...? :o
Has a 2Tek bridge, similar to this one on my Hamer Cruise...it was a 90s thing. They've recently been reissued. Might try to find a victim customer for one.
(https://i.imgur.com/PN1PcgG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1jLagNZ.jpg)
The massive individual string thru bridges are screwed to the base plate.
Meanwhile BgrBtm is moving along. Here it is with an H-22 which was an influence along with the Rick 360.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZwlZ4wN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qIN3ErW.jpg)
Going to get double binding to set off the crazy spalted alder grain.
(https://i.imgur.com/y2u2H3G.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9PBxBr1.jpg)
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That end grain is nuts!
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Has a 2Tek bridge, similar to this one on my Hamer Cruise...it was a 90s thing. They've recently been reissued. Might try to find a victim customer for one.
Are you doing any neck-through 'birds yet? I might volunteer. I like those 2Tek monstrosities.
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Are you doing any neck-through 'birds yet? I might volunteer. I like those 2Tek monstrosities.
I built a neck thru 12er, it convinced me it wasn't worth the effort.
The 2TEK seems a lot more 'Full Contact' than the Babicz. is solid brass, and doesn't have a giant logo on it. I like how my Hamer sounds with it although I've never tried those pickups with a different bridge.
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I've played Cruise basses of that era with and without the 2Tek and it really brings things to life. I hate nasty artificial sounding high end and mids in bass tone and good bridges can make for an articulate bass that doesn't make me cringe and still has tons of low end. I'm fearful that I may be stuck on neck-through. My pawnshop Peavey Grind NTB is one of the nicest basses I've ever played and it's a Chinese bottom-of-the-budget-barrel bass. Although I DO like the Thunderbird Studio 5'ver, which is set neck...
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Awww man that's going to set off my bridge obsession again! Must not drill big hole in EB4L.......
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I've played Cruise basses of that era with and without the 2Tek and it really brings things to life. I hate nasty artificial sounding high end and mids in bass tone and good bridges can make for an articulate bass that doesn't make me cringe and still has tons of low end. I'm fearful that I may be stuck on neck-through. My pawnshop Peavey Grind NTB is one of the nicest basses I've ever played and it's a Chinese bottom-of-the-budget-barrel bass. Although I DO like the Thunderbird Studio 5'ver, which is set neck...
Warmoth is te exclusive dealer for the 2TEK. Current version has less mass in the 'fingers', lightening holes drilled in it. That's unfortunate IMO, thyey're not going to convince possible customers on the basis of that. You're either in or out on the original design for players who know the bridge so why drill holes in a critical part that might affect the tone?
(https://i.imgur.com/G0XFNVg.jpg)
If I built necks I'd definitely build neck through basses compared to set necks. Not much difference in labor and more perceived value.
I had a friend build the 12er neck, he also built me a 32" I'm going to use for a personal 12er if I ever decide on a body.
Awww man that's going to set off my bridge obsession again! Must not drill big hole in EB4L.......
You're lucky, it only works on a 1-3/4" thick body!
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Phew!
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Warmoth is te exclusive dealer for the 2TEK. Current version has less mass in the 'fingers', lightening holes drilled in it. That's unfortunate IMO, thyey're not going to convince possible customers on the basis of that. You're either in or out on the original design for players who know the bridge so why drill holes in a critical part that might affect the tone?
...
IMHO lightening any bridge will affect the tone. That's not necessarily a bad thing, just a change. In this case, I agree with you. It doesn't make much sense to reintroduce a bridge this unusual if you're going to change the tone.
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[enable-mode] Could block-up the back... :mrgreen: [/enable-mode]
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Has a 2Tek bridge, similar to this one on my Hamer Cruise...it was a 90s thing. They've recently been reissued. Might try to find a victim customer for one.
I'm your huckleberry 8) If you think that would make a good addition to my build (red burst Max with the G&L pups), I'd be game.
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I'm your huckleberry 8) If you think that would make a good addition to my build (red burst Max with the G&L pups), I'd be game.
I considered it, problem is it requires a 1-3/4" thick body vs the the usual 1-3/8" of the MAX. That will affect the weight as well as the mass of the bridge itself. I don't think the trade off is worth it, especially with tapewounds which usually aren't recommended for string thru bridges.
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I considered it, problem is it requires a 1-3/4" thick body vs the the usual 1-3/8" of the MAX. That will affect the weight as well as the mass of the bridge itself. I don't think the trade off is worth it, especially with tapewounds which usually aren't recommended for string thru bridges.
Makes sense. FYI, the tapewounds wouldn't be an issue. I only use them on certain basses, so I'm not committed to them. If an idea pops up and you need a guinea pig for an experiment, please feel free to reach out!
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Makes sense. FYI, the tapewounds wouldn't be an issue. I only use them on certain basses, so I'm not committed to them. If an idea pops up and you need a guinea pig for an experiment, please feel free to reach out!
Will do!
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Torted up and hot to trot.
(https://i.imgur.com/hb1Qebv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DrLbW1u.jpg)
Allparts Lollipops, made in same factory as Hipshot's imports.
(https://i.imgur.com/nk7p3h8.jpg)
Look, ma...no neck dive!
(https://i.imgur.com/OyKXeLa.jpg)
Massaged BgrBtm body. I think it flows better, will definitely be easier to bind.
(https://i.imgur.com/ycOcxrX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GXE3AzK.jpg)
This beast weighs 12 lbs. same as my '77 StingRay. Seems heavier.
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That explorer is gorgeous! :D
Odd pickups with offset polepieces on the P/J fiver. I assume those were specified by the customer... What are those and do you know what's the rationale behind the design?
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That explorer is gorgeous! :D
Odd pickups with offset polepieces on the P/J fiver. I assume those were specified by the customer... What are those and do you know what's the rationale behind the design?
Thanks!
This was just a body/headstock refin for a good customer. Pickups are Nordstrands. Description from their site:
"The tonal nature of the NP5 is akin to that of its brother, the NP4. The reason for this close comparison in tone is a derivative of their angled pole design, which gives these pickups the totally loaded coil girth important in facilitating the hard hitting vibrational tenacity they have come to be known for. The NP5 produces a voice that is resonant of all the best aspects of precision-style playing, but is then able to go above and beyond the traditional P pickup with an aggressive, note sustaining integrity that will carry your sound farther than any standard P could ever dream. Although this pickup’s tone is not an exact clone of our standard NP4, it will certainly provide a flavor of P-style playing that is both nostalgic and edgy; putting forth a sonic kinesis that will prove any player’s loaded slap as poignant, dominating, and sometimes even profane."
...or your money back
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Wow. I need more vibrational tenacity! My slap is loaded but not yet proven profane.
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Exemplary work as usual, my Don... :mrgreen:
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Nordstrand's pickup descriptions are great.
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Binding and scraping time.
Broke the top strip three times, tried to force the bends. I use acetone ( in poly bottle with needle applicator) to cement the ABS in the rabbet and binding tape from Allparts to hold in place for the short setting time.Binding was 6mm tall. I cut the rabbets 4mm deep and then scraped installed binding down to that height. Panel scraper made quick work of most of it. Clamp is holding broken binding strip to tip of top horn.
(https://i.imgur.com/bsg1YjS.jpg)
Back went much smoother, one continuous no break strip using a 30 year old hair dryer to soften the ABS while making the bends. 2" scrap was all that was left over. Butt joint at center of heel.
(https://i.imgur.com/XfaxAK1.jpg)
Rough out work done. Acetone sets up almost as fast as super glue, as well as costing next to nothing.
(https://i.imgur.com/r6TuPQK.jpg)
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Nice work!
Another advantage of the acetone is that you don't get any glue remains on the wood. So no problems with staining.
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Nice work!
Another advantage of the acetone is that you don't get any glue remains on the wood. So no problems with staining.
Thanks, Rob.
I watched a few videos before deciding acetone was the way to go for that reason. I've used a needle bottle to cement clear acrylic and thought it might work. Capillary action sucks in the acetone without the mess a brush makes.
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Getting Hard.
Spalted Alder is very similar in density to Basswood, this piece anyway. Minwax Wood Hardener is a precatalyzed resin in acetone for rotten woodwork to prepare it for being filled and painted. Really works great to toughen up the spalt. Penetrates and dries in 2-4 hours, 10 minutes to touch.
White wood ready for finish. Rosewood board.
(https://i.imgur.com/jYJhoxS.jpg)
Top and sides done, ready to flip over on 'stand' screwed into bridge holes.
(https://i.imgur.com/UB1gJaH.jpg)
raw and first coat started.
(https://i.imgur.com/ajxQ6pS.jpg)
10 minutes later.
(https://i.imgur.com/lQV0r15.jpg)
10 minutes after that.
(https://i.imgur.com/eKUEjvb.jpg)
Veneered headstock was a test, that's two coats of nitro 15 minutes apart over the cured and sanded to 220 Minwax.
Pearl dots pulled, black dots installed, fretboard ebonized with Fiebings. I love the no face dots look. Probably has something to do with being in Kindergarten and endlessly drawing railroad tracks...they were right, something wrong with me!
(https://i.imgur.com/V5mPFrf.jpg)
Next step is sanding hardened body and shooing clear.
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Liking that grain!
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Gorgeous colour...
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I like the idea of dark dots on a dark board. . . stealthy.
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Blocked the resin with 120/180/220 and shot two coats of clear nitro yesterday. Two more tomorrow and it should be done.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y9mUPX5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/om6zglH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2n1bq0R.jpg)
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Done!
(https://i.imgur.com/mCUNqEz.jpg)
Side by Side, same discontinued Warmoth very wide necks and Nordys. BgrBtm weighs about two lbs less than the P with 2Tek and non Ultralite Hipshot tumers.
(https://i.imgur.com/xo9gh3Y.jpg)
'Chromacast' gig bag is for Explore and V type guitars, fits the 16" wide BgrBtm and has headstock room to spare. Wide enough for Gabber/ Ripper. Probably long enough.
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Really nice Carlo!
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Very Cool!Which one do you prefer tonaly?
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Really nice Carlo!
Thanks, Bob!
Very Cool!Which one do you prefer tonaly?
Thanks, the BgrBtm has gold plated flats (I don't know the brand, black silk ends) that were on the donor bass. It sounds really good, seems to resonate more than the refin P/J.
Strings on the P/J are old cheapo nickel rounds so it's probably not a fair comparison. I'll wait for the customer's take.
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Steve Soar at it again. Five string magic in a 4 string can.
From Steve:
"Here's a pix of the idea. Regular magnet in there for comparison. I'll
probably bring the wires out in the middle of the coils rather than at
the end to leave more room for windings there"
(https://i.imgur.com/dPJD7EP.jpg)
Sitting on the strings is a stock ThunderBucker (vintage Gibby sized) magnet. Below that is a proto magnet and milled forbon bobbin plates in a standard can.
The result:
" I built a copy of the 63N, and ear test says
it sounds close enough. The L is higher and so is the R because of
more wire for the same number of turns, but not enough to matter it
seems. I tested for sensitivity over width, and it reaches about
71mm VS the standard which is only about 60mm."
He sent it to me and I put it into the mule with stretched string spacing, 19mm (total 3 inches).
(https://i.imgur.com/Mj3jlQU.jpg)
Full coverage from top to bottom!
Gonna pop it into this after I finish it and hopefully do a sound sample.
(https://i.imgur.com/6McrWYB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nWakvd4.jpg)
"Doghair" finish , drywall mud rubbed into ebonized oak veneer.
Also shipped this Royal Crown Purple Metallic RR last week.
(https://i.imgur.com/542e2M5.jpg).
Customer didn't tell me she tunes down a half step. I should have guessed, she plays metal. Nut needed to be higher and she replaced it herself. My kind of customer.
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That doghair finish looks great! :toast:
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Yeah, that doghair finish is interesting. Any problem with dried compound chipping?
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That doghair finish looks great! :toast:
Yeah, that doghair finish is interesting. Any problem with dried compound chipping?
Thanks guys.
No problem with chipping. It's an old furniture technique and there's a lot of sealer on top.
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White pickguard wasn't cutting it so I veneered the same oak I used on the top to either side. This is the bottom already veneered/trimmed and stuck to the top. I used Weldwood spray contact cement and a sharp utility knife to trim. I did get a bit of tear out on the bottom so I used more contact cement on the top. That did the trick.
(https://i.imgur.com/hqdMRwx.jpg)
All the hardware sanded to a satin finish with 1000 wetordry, wood finished with two heavy sealer coats and steel wooled with #0000.
(https://i.imgur.com/SYP3peJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/F6NO2Db.jpg)
Now to find a buyer...
Revised G8R body for a 32" single pickup 4 string in Neptune Blue Firemist Metallic.
(https://i.imgur.com/sTYmpd5.jpg)
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I like those proportions.
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Art, my Don... nuf said... :mrgreen:
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Well, around here we call it Blart, but thanks, Ken!
I'm sending a PM concerning tech stuff regarding photography.
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Uli Salm, my patron. six Cataldos among his five hundred plus bass collection.
(https://i.imgur.com/nqzCJvM.jpg)
40th anniversary celebration of 'Rudolf Rock & die Shocker' in Hamburg with two Cataldos, one on the shoulder and one in the rack.
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That's great Carlo!
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Five... HUNDRED???
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That's great Carlo!
Thanks, Rob
Five... HUNDRED???
He auctioned off about 150 two years ago on Heritage including a dozen or so '60s Reverses. I'm sure he kept the best ones. Before I built this we had a good back and forth as to what to do including pix of a bunch of his 55-56 P's.
(https://i.imgur.com/9rp42Tu.jpg)
Ended up doing a little more relicing than this pic but less than originally planned.
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I'm finally moving on from shimmed neck pockets. Made a quick jig that rises .030 from the 15th fret to the 20th which gives about a .125 rise at the bridge on a 34" scale neck.
I worked with the blank of a 32" scale G8r I'm building and then decided to upgrade my MAX41 to a 21 fret set neck with tilt headstock and ebony fretboard. Also going to do a raised center on it.
(https://i.imgur.com/o6BktgY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cdz1mdh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tvpVQqa.jpg)
Harbor Freight $10 Wheel of Death makes a quick job of contouring.
(https://i.imgur.com/6FNzaSh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7lpRhvg.jpg)
One piece 1-1/2" poplar blank weighs 3.8 lbs. About the same as basswood but harder.
Saturday Shop Snap
(https://i.imgur.com/Ddvo66p.jpg)
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8) 8) 8)
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They just keep improving Carlo.
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I custom mixed this from GM9792 waterbase/solvent basecoat with Kolorefx 'Silver Stunner' flake topped with Hi Performance Clear Acrylic Lacquer. It's a combo of modern basecoat/clearcoat without the Isocyanate high or pot life of Urethane. It's actually 3 stage: Flat black/ Base Coat/Clear Coats. The color coat required about five ounces of material.
(https://i.imgur.com/k2X62qB.jpg)
It looks a lot better in this video:
https://imgur.com/dEYfkyM (https://imgur.com/dEYfkyM)
Gets color sanded and buffed in about a week. The automotive acrylic lacquer is a durable but thin finish(compared to urethanes) with great transparency. I'm gonna add 2 drops Mohawk Pano Lacquer per gallon and call it 'Nitro' :) Pretty much what everybody else does...
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I'm gonna add 2 drops Mohawk Pano Lacquer per gallon and call it 'Nitro' :) Pretty much what everybody else does...
:)
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That came out great.
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They just keep improving Carlo.
That came out great.
Thanks, guys! Difficult painting last week with temps over 100 and humidity high. Heat index of 112 Tuesday.
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That is one of the coolest finishes I've seen. Fabulous!
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Lots of 8)
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Sparkle Plenty gone to happy customer. 32" scale with Rotosound Jazz flats. 7.8 lbs.
(https://i.imgur.com/lkbBSCF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/IZ7VTbw.jpg)
NR 52 with ThunderBucker Wide5 pickups, 'doghaired' fumed white oak veneer and binding on poplar body. Satin hardware.
(https://i.imgur.com/P9lg2Ba.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cJSeDPk.jpg)
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Sparkle Plenty, now there's a cultural reference from long ago. At least you didn't name it after her father.
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Sparkle Plenty, now there's a cultural reference from long ago. At least you didn't name it after her father.
I think only you and I will understand either of those references. ;D
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Agreed... had to look it up... :mrgreen:
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I think only you and I will understand either of those references. ;D
Well almost but I do know Dad's name.
I don't even like sparkle drum kits but that is freakin' awesome.
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...and now for something not completely different...
I recently cleaned and set up a friend of mine's formerly Polaris White '65 SG Jr. He bought it in the early 70s from Lipham's Music for $75 with case after another friend of mine traded it in after stripping the body. On a new EB-1 reissue IIRC. Here it is next to my '65 EB0.
(https://i.imgur.com/ODGUYcx.jpg)
Hadn't really been played since then, frets almost perfect. What really amazed me was that the neck was bound with the binding filed to cover each individual fret end, just like you'd see on the most expensive Gibson. Amazing for what was basically a student guitar, although it originally had a vibrola.
Anyway, I played it for a while and it was FUN! So this resulted:
Tele swamp ash $100 body from a Reverb shop in NH I shot with toner mixed from white nitro/ sanding sealer mix.
(https://i.imgur.com/EUn6Tvo.jpg)
Scuff sanded it with 400 the next day and shot six ounces of nitro clear on it. Day after that I hit it with some #0000 stell wool and attached my late brother's '57 Esquire "V" neck to it that hadn't been played since 1980. Also a Duncan Jerry Donahue pickup on Steve Soar's recommendation and a modded three way switch:
(https://i.imgur.com/tI6dZ5V.jpg)
Gives a pretty good approximation of a two pup guitar
(https://i.imgur.com/Gfombwn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BaZKlly.jpg)
New calluses!
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I like that a lot but Sparkle Plenty spoiled my eyes.
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Beautiful Esquire. Good to see that you didn't sell the neck.
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Beautiful Esquire. Good to see that you didn't sell the neck.
Thanks, Dave. I'm at least going to play it for a while. There's always the possibility of swapping out the neck since the total value of the rest of the parts is about 10% of the neck and tuners.
12 string RR, ebony neck and Pelham Blue I custom mixed the basecoat from GM colors designed to be used under 2K urethane clear. Instead I used automotive acrylic lacquer. I did a test about six months ago and they're compatible as of this week. Advantage is no waste mixing up too much catalyzed material plus you get a durable thin topcoat.
(https://i.imgur.com/3MfIUpf.jpg)
Price of a gallon of Clear Acrylic Lacquer has gone up to $300, twice what it was when I last bought one. It gets thinned 1.5:1 with thinner to clear so that brings the price per usable gallon down to around $160. I estimate it comes out to around $45 in materials for a paint job adding in base coat, additives,etc. and primer. Probably another $5 for disposables.
Pin router jig for pick guard.
(https://i.imgur.com/pkylbbL.jpg)
I cut the first four freehand, a lot quicker with the router.
(https://i.imgur.com/FhMFljn.jpg)
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Verrrry nice, my Don... 8)
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Outta here tomorrow.
(https://i.imgur.com/UCUSouD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BqPcmAV.jpg)
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I just gotta say, I've seen so many beautiful instruments made by you over the years, and it's really impressive to see how you mix
Fender and Gibson design elements into something that actually works. Nice!
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Gorgeous, as usual... :mrgreen:
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Hadn't really been played since then, frets almost perfect. What really amazed me was that the neck was bound with the binding filed to cover each individual fret end, just like you'd see on the most expensive Gibson. Amazing for what was basically a student guitar, although it originally had a vibrola.
Interesting to see a Junior with neck binding. That's very uncommon. Traditionally, Juniors had silkscreen logo and unbound neck, Specials had pearl logo and bound neck.
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Interesting to see a Junior with neck binding. That's very uncommon. Traditionally, Juniors had silkscreen logo and unbound neck, Specials had pearl logo and bound neck.
That Jr. had a stock Vibrola. That and the Polaris white put it a step above a standard Junior. So I'm guessing Gibson just did the neck like they would have on a Polaris SG Custom.
Thanks to everyone for the kind words! Working on an NR, set neck MAX, and a through neck bigger body EB0 32"12 string, that one's for me.
(https://i.imgur.com/yQUxi11.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/anTD0Cd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iuldgS6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RWNWKhL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rG2aXUR.jpg)
This one gets a bound flame maple top
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V 8)
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Gotta love hurricane season. Days of anticipation, hype, and preparation only to (hopefully) be a near miss. Take care in Kissimmee, Bob!
Routing the 1" increased width body. It will still fit in a standard Precision case.
(https://i.imgur.com/FAGDLkp.jpg)
Veneering.
(https://i.imgur.com/wCvtsD6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1rdiq5h.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KXwrb8K.jpg)
Bound for glory.
(https://i.imgur.com/Vk1dY13.jpg)
Checking dimensions and color test. I'll be aiming at a 'Pelham Blue' shade of stain.
(https://i.imgur.com/TCeKlv4.jpg)
Inverness Green curing. Setneck MAX41 in foreground.
(https://i.imgur.com/WkFVMEc.jpg)
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Agree with the hurricane prep.
This will be stellar Carlo.
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All looking good as usual and hopefully all parties will be safe waaaay down south...
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One NR just needing finishing touches..
(https://i.imgur.com/4aEENvb.jpg)
and 32" set neck getting close
(https://i.imgur.com/Jln3gQl.jpg)
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I know that Green, my Don... :mrgreen:
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Attack of the SinglePup SetNex
(https://i.imgur.com/qtlOGPp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/E7q6lZq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1ZHM7Mu.jpg)
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That neck join is really nice!
Artful and the back cut looks really comfortable.
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Do you have imagery of your past life in carpentry...?
So much artistry...
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Do you have imagery of your past life in carpentry...?
So much artistry...
Thanks, Ken, and everyone else. This is my most ambitious attempt in wood, around 1987. It was a little too springy. If I did it today it would have some carbon fiber in the arm/leg laminations. Back then it was basically unobtanium.
(https://i.imgur.com/IT5B9Hb.jpg)
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Very nice... :D
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Winding up (down) 2019.
Going out next week. Medium Scale, Satin hardware.
(https://i.imgur.com/kRC6ixa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BIAC1wl.jpg)
Early December for this one. Body/Neck total weight six lbs. Honduras ain't heavy!
(https://i.imgur.com/HQwV5xn.jpg)
Last weekend's progress on my 12er
(https://i.imgur.com/3oRNJ5B.jpg)
Scale comparison to original size LP jr body (my EB0 is in storage).
(https://i.imgur.com/nqf40gk.jpg)
Finally, Epiphone Firebird I 'Joe Bonamassa'. MIC, build and finish are first class. Even the 'KLuson' banjos are smooth and lI love the sound of the twin melody maker coil pickup. Sounds like a P-90 without the hum. I take back anything I've ever said about JB. :)
(https://i.imgur.com/VRHA6ae.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/btMQ7Ic.jpg)
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I played a JB Epi just like in your picture this summer, my shop had one in. I think it's the best 'Gibson' guitar I have played in years.
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Lots of goodies on show... :mrgreen:
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OXbird waiting for the check to clear. :mrgreen:
(https://i.imgur.com/uynhHbQ.jpg)
Satin Metallic Black LH Twelver on schedule.
(https://i.imgur.com/YvzREaa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jHqSuQC.jpg)
Factory refurb Canon Color Laser Printer and toner for $185, less than $4 a pound. No more shlepping to the copy shop for my crappy graphics.
(https://i.imgur.com/eNbxs8f.jpg)
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Wow Carlo I thought Kinko's had a special place in your heart.
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What I did on my Covid Vacation.
(https://i.imgur.com/IeqGt4e.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/AZrtnzD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9CKySC7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SiyDdxd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ezGIqI5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QDudiNE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1MPmjzX.jpg)
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8)
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:mrgreen:
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That is why they call you lightnin'.
That is freaking awesome!
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That is GORGEOUS.
Stacked vol/tone behind the bridge? That's a cool look...
I know we've seen that bridge before, but I forget, what is it?
Something about the cut-out decoration makes me wonder is it semi-hollow or chambered?
Or the middle slab is solid all the way?
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:toast:
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:toast:
Pretdamn near full hollow. There's a block for the pup to screw into and one for the bridge/tail. The sides are about 3/8" thick when the perimeter is routed to final size.
This was mainly going to be a 'proof of concept'. The sides were built from pieces. All my other basses use a standard 14 x 20 blank. I'll draw the perimeter on it and remove everything that's not necessary. This frame took a 4' x 8" wide board and 2-3 hrs to build,probably more. Entire bass weighs
Bridge and neck are modded from an 8 string Rogue. Cataldo tailpiece. I forgot the block under the tailpiece so I through glued front to back 1/2" dowels for each screw. Worked out, no tailpiece tilt.
Bass weighs 7.8 lbs. Top and bottom are from Lowes, I went through a stack of about 25 2'x 4' pieces ($17, void free, thus the faux binding).
Here's some more pix of the build.
Cheap quick connects, pot fits thru the larger triangle. Endpin jack, seems appropriate. Bridge is adjusted for height with shims under it or the neck, none were needed.
(https://i.imgur.com/S26tIzW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8AAWVWA.jpg)
I can probably reduce the weight by a quarter pound. Trans white toner top, trans black sides and neck, natural "binding". Three separate tapings.
(https://i.imgur.com/QuIaXV2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PPFj5TA.jpg)
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Looks great! Curious why you didn't change the neck pitch instead of sinking the bridge? Is there a benefit?
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Looks great! Curious why you didn't change the neck pitch instead of sinking the bridge? Is there a benefit?
Thanks. Bridge is made to be inset, it's about 3/4" tall. Since it matches the neck I knew that if I made the neck pocket the same depth as it was on the donor bass and made the bridge route the same relative depth as the donor body I should be OK. I strung up and played the bass before disassembling for finishing, including testing the wiring. Standard for any prototype...that's how I discovered I needed to do something about the lack of a block under the tailpiece.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZRQhuzO.jpg)
Unrepaired divot from router miscue is visible. Original Rogue headstock, meh.
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Cool concept!
I’d put new tuners on though. The rusty ones don’t do it justice.
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Sweet! Does it make much sound acousticaly?
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Cool concept!
I’d put new tuners on though. The rusty ones don’t do it justice.
Thanks!
I wouldn't put those tuners on a customer's bass but this one isn't for sale. It originally just a chance to try out some ideas:hollow body, cheap plywood, and finish techniques.
Sweet! Does it make much sound acousticaly?
Thanks! I strung it up an played it for a while, then cut the holes. It was immediately louder. A fresh set of strings and some scientific tuning of the holes might make it louder but it's audible enough unplugged so an amp isn't necessary for practicing. I'll do an unplugged clip if I ever get around to recording it.
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:popcorn: :mrgreen:
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Very cool!
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Blue Monday
(https://i.imgur.com/4aP0Jtr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4wGmcnH.jpg)
Ain't nothing like the real thing. Honduras Mahogany,no sealer, no grain filler. Two coats of Mohawk Piano Lacquer nitro.
(https://i.imgur.com/ldiROWH.jpg)
Rattlecan 'vintage tint' over bare, sanded to 320, maple. 3+mm 'Geezer Dots'.
(https://i.imgur.com/kU3IXNA.jpg)
Five minutes in ~150F water increases pressure in can, better volume and atomization. Less 'dry spray' and orange peel.
(https://i.imgur.com/D5Fwnhz.jpg)
Two coats Piano Lacquer
(https://i.imgur.com/ynWh1d3.jpg)
Scuff sanding, two more clear coats, and finishing will be done.
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Gorgeous, my Don... :mrgreen:
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Thanks, Ken. Having fun with this one, weight with its bag of components is 8.1 lbs.
(https://i.imgur.com/dAIXa1m.jpg)
Can't wait to buff and polish it in the newly cleaned and rearranged shop!
(https://i.imgur.com/eNO3Eik.jpg)
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Putting my disaster area to shame, my Don...
I was talking to Scott the other day about some old mahogany I have acquired from a scrapped door frame from an old house in Inverness, big enough for a through-neck, and how I could find a luthier locally that I could help me build my own (i.e. use their workshop) but there is nobody local... and also discussed required tools, or speaking to a furniture-maker...
Last comment was how I could re-locate Carlo and his entire workshop to the Highlands... :mrgreen:
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Putting my disaster area to shame, my Don...
I was talking to Scott the other day about some old mahogany I have acquired from a scrapped door frame from an old house in Inverness, big enough for a through-neck, and how I could find a luthier locally that I could help me build my own (i.e. use their workshop) but there is nobody local... and also discussed required tools, or speaking to a furniture-maker...
Last comment was how I could re-locate Carlo and his entire workshop to the Highlands... :mrgreen:
That's quite a find, Ken! Maybe someone on Basschat UK could help with locating what you need.
Free haggis for life?
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Not sure you could or would settle for veggie haggis, my Don... :mrgreen:
ps... worth checking out when ready to... ta...
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Not sure you could or would settle for veggie haggis, my Don... :mrgreen:
ps... worth checking out when ready to... ta...
Wait until July when the temp and humidity are both in the mid to high 90's and I'll bet your negotiations are far less difficult.
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Not sure you could or would settle for veggie haggis, my Don... :mrgreen:
ps... worth checking out when ready to... ta...
Is that baked in a potato skin?
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Trrrradionally boiled in a sheep's stomach... aye, the Scot's have some fine trrrraditions... :mrgreen:
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Trrrradionally boiled in a sheep's stomach... aye, the Scot's have some fine trrrraditions... :mrgreen:
If you go back far enough (and not very far for most), all cultures, except for the ones with nutty dietary rules, ate every part of the animal, or made use of it in some way. It's only 'moderns' who consider anything they don't eat as strange.
I'll take a bowl of beef tripe cooked in tomato sauce any day vs a steak.
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We're sticking with the nuts, my Don... suits my state of mind... :mrgreen:
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:mrgreen:
Absolutely
If you go back far enough (and not very far for most), all cultures, except for the ones with nutty dietary rules, ate every part of the animal, or made use of it in some way. It's only 'moderns' who consider anything they don't eat as strange.
I'll take a bowl of beef tripe cooked in tomato sauce any day vs a steak.
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Woo- loving the grain through the blue finish there. Interesting neck through approach too.Great work as usual!
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Finally getting these guys dialed in, both a lot of fun!
(https://i.imgur.com/6SJ33dT.jpg)
'64 Gibson neck pup in the 12er, lots of chime. ThunderBucker Max (12+ ohms) in the Eighter, very grindy. I'm digging the upsized Doublecut with 32" neck, proportions are a lot better, IMO.
Color sanding on this one started with 220 dry and a block
(https://i.imgur.com/Ur5HbSH.jpg)
Up to 400 and then Meguiar's Ultimate Compound
(https://i.imgur.com/5JQAeZx.jpg)
Through neck is attached with 5 screws, three tailpiece (standard Fender 1-3/4" neck screw) and 2 countersunk 1"x 6 under the bridge.
Set neck one piece Honduras body gets mated to neck as soon as the weather cooperates so I can shoot it.
(https://i.imgur.com/LRJ15xs.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4yVgAQS.jpg)
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Wow! Beautiful work! Eternity next!
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Looking good Carlo!
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Does anyone know where Carlo is...?
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Does anyone know where Carlo is...?
He hasn't logged in here since June 9. I checked Talkbass, he's been active recently there.
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Does anyone know where Carlo is...?
Thanks for asking, Ken...Here:
(https://i.imgur.com/gVxxBbG.jpg)
I've spent much of the last 6 months getting my house in order in preparation for the coming chaos. Built a six foot fence around the place, installed a new roof, major cleanup, etc. All with the help of my next door neighbor.
(https://i.imgur.com/4RzjVSB.jpg)
Finished this and sent it to Hamburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/UJYtQul.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RWjnuJr.jpg)
Started this but I'm stalled due to severe arthritis. Can't build and can't play.
(https://i.imgur.com/IL4UWCf.jpg)
CBD seems to help, hope to be back in action in 2021.
Stay healthy, guys!
(EDIT)Oh, yeah...here's a first prototype of a new 8/12er bridge since the Schaller 471-8 is discontinued.
(https://i.imgur.com/n0SqVNs.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/G8gVOeY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uh6h2kq.jpg)
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My Don... so glad to hear form you, and so sorry to hear your bad health news...
CBD has numerous interesting properties... my daughter uses it for some of her issues too...
Would have been more fun to have had 5150 as the address... :mrgreen:
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Good hearing from you Carlo and hope for a health improvement soon.
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Sorry to hear about your arthritis.
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Second prototype 8/12 bridge. Basically sawing in half the saddle carriers of an ABM type 4 string bridge. Then drilling and tapping a hole in the now 8 saddles for height adjustment and using the existing grub screw to lock each saddle pair in place.
(https://i.imgur.com/wpFqoqQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pdVK7hN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CSV35PC.jpg)
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Nice and the knobs even nicer!
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+ 1 - cool location of the stacked controls too.
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Now with quick release integrated tailpiece,8 and 10 string. Black and gold options.
(https://i.imgur.com/Dg9494H.jpg)
E saddles not split in the correct spot.
(https://i.imgur.com/812nKSB.jpg)
Fairly enthused with the results and planning a small run.
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That is coming along really well.
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8)
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That looks great Carlo!
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So, what did I miss?
Back in the saddle with a mini Explorer(ish) cut from a MAX bass. Fits in a standard case and will use a standard body blank.
Mock up.
(https://i.imgur.com/DN3Rdqj.jpg)
Original MAX prototype of eight years ago in current state of undress.
(https://i.imgur.com/VLXqZeR.jpg)
Trimmed, the rest is sawdust.
(https://i.imgur.com/2Wx5XKr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XRPTX7H.jpg)
Medium and short scales are going to be fun.
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Welcome back Carlo. :toast:
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What Rob said, my Don... :mrgreen: