I couldn't get my guy to finish a second batch of tail pieces, so I asked a contact at Hipshot if they could do it. I received a prototype from them and it's close to the original, but it's heftier (a little taller, longer and the slots are wider) and not as refined as an original. I told them if they could trim it down closer to the original, I thought they'd have a market for them among us TB fans. Here it is against an original clone............what do you think?
If we show enough interest, I think they'll make a batch for us. Maybe even trim them down closer to original specs. Speak up folks!
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y16/drbassman/Misc%20Stuff/100_3480.jpg)
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y16/drbassman/Misc%20Stuff/100_3481.jpg)
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y16/drbassman/Misc%20Stuff/100_3482.jpg)
I would definitely be interested in at least two.
At least two for me. Unless pricing is just stoopid.....
Too bad your guy couldn't come through- last ones he did looked nice! It's cool that Hipshot might do it, though, and the subtle differences aren't a problem for me.
I'm in for one if they do a batch.
I maybe need one or maybe two, if price is right.
That's looking pretty sharp Bill, much better that than the stock one from BaCH or the ones on my Greco and Ibanez.........Crap! I might need four! ;)
Did they give you an idea of how much they will cost? They look good by the way.
Big improvement on the BaCH. I hope you can convince them to make an exact repro. Depending on price I'd be interested.
...would be in for a bunch.....
Nicely done!
Yeah, I'm gonna want a couple, just in case!
Don't know price yet, but I think they would be reasonable based on their other products pricing. I mean it is just a tail piece! :P
I'll take a few !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
looks like a good candidate for my parts collection
Nice! I've always thought the folks at Hipshot made great stuff and were a top shelf business.
Do you think that you could convince them to make bridge to go with it? ;D
Looks greaT! Although I love your originals more!! You should see if they would do an 8 string or even a 12 string as well!
They'd have to come up with a black option to please our Gruppenführer... :vader:
Looks good - hope the project comes together...
(Baz - you just jumped the shark again... ;))
Quote from: Lightyear on October 16, 2010, 10:05:24 AM
Nice! I've always thought the folks at Hipshot made great stuff and were a top shelf business.
Do you think that you could convince them to make bridge to go with it? ;D
I would think a bridge would be a good mate to this piece. We can always ask!
You might point the crew in Scott's direction...
Quote from: drbassman on October 16, 2010, 10:48:14 AM
I would think a bridge would be a good mate to this piece. We can always ask!
Since you seem to have their ear why not ask? All they can do is say no ;D
With Warwick successfully using a two piece bridge there might be some market strength to the idea.
Neither the tailpiece or a bridge will be any stretch for them, they already make them for Mike Lull.
Here are their parts alongside Scott's bridge.
(http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd306/veronicasteed/bridges015.jpg)
Quote from: Lightyear on October 16, 2010, 11:10:59 AM
Since you seem to have their ear why not ask? All they can do is say no ;D
With Warwick successfully using a two piece bridge there might be some market strength to the idea.
I agree guys. I think Scott should call them, I have encouraged him to do so!
How'd I jump the Shark???? Do I look Like Fonzie????
Hey...! Whoah...! ;)
Imagine the logistics of creating something as exotic as a tailpiece for a 12 string - imagine the cost of producing a one-off custom unit capable of securing a primary and two octaves as individuals in overlaping, offset slots... admit it Baz, you have to accept that when you are out there, on the edge, you may have to jump the odd aquatic beast or two to remain out there on the edge... ;D
Hey Bill, is it possible they sent you one of Lull's tailpieces?
Quote from: Kenny's 51st State on October 16, 2010, 03:26:11 PM
Hey...! Whoah...! ;)
Imagine the logistics of creating something as exotic as a tailpiece for a 12 string - imagine the cost of producing a one-off custom unit capable of securing a primary and two octaves as individuals in overlaping, offset slots... admit it Baz, you have to accept that when you are out there, on the edge, you may have to jump the odd aquatic beast or two to remain out there on the edge... ;D
You're free to approach them Baz, but like most manufacturers, they want to know if there's a market for them so they can mass produce them. You are probably looking at a custom order unless you have 40 friends or projects in mind!
Quote from: dadagoboi on October 16, 2010, 03:27:52 PM
Hey Bill, is it possible they sent you one of Lull's tailpieces?
Nope, it's not a Lull. he took 3 weeks to build this one. Besides, they won't sell any of Lull's as they are an exclusive. They are pretty ethical folks.
Quote from: drbassman on October 16, 2010, 04:52:28 PM
Nope, it's not a Lull. he took 3 weeks to build this one. Besides, they won't sell any of Lull's as they are an exclusive. They are pretty ethical folks.
I looked closer at the Lull, the one they did for you is better though not as cool as the original. Looks like they did use the Lull slot width. That Gibby profile is really sweet.
You think 40 is all they would require to do a production run? I guess it's not too difficult with a CNC machine but it also limits the shape.
Quote from: dadagoboi on October 16, 2010, 05:17:15 PM
I looked closer at the Lull, the one they did for you is better though not as cool as the original. Looks like they did use the Lull slot width. That Gibby profile is really sweet.
You think 40 is all they would require to do a production run? I guess it's not too difficult with a CNC machine but it also limits the shape.
I don't think they need a specific or big number to do these. I'm hoping they commit to it and make it part of their catalog of products. Bass builders need tail pieces all the time and this design is getting close to a winner in my opinion. There's really nothing on the market if you need something along this line. It's a niche that could be filled. Combined with Scott's bridge could make it a real winner.
If Hipshot introduces a bridge/tailpiece combo at the same price as their Type A bridge or slightly more they'd get builder business, but just doing an orphan tailpiece doesn't make much sense in my opinion, too small a market. Scott's bridge is a fantastic solution for original Birds but is unnecessary for a custom or production bass with correct positioning of posts. I DO wish I had Reverse to put one on, that's for sure. Re a possible Hipshot tailpiece only, I'd buy one for my BaCH.
Quote from: dadagoboi on October 16, 2010, 09:29:47 PM
If Hipshot introduces a bridge/tailpiece combo at the same price as their Type A bridge or slightly more they'd get builder business, but just doing an orphan tailpiece doesn't make much sense in my opinion, too small a market. Scott's bridge is a fantastic solution for original Birds but is unnecessary for a custom or production bass with correct positioning of posts. I DO wish I had Reverse to put one on, that's for sure. Re a possible Hipshot tailpiece only, I'd buy one for my BaCH.
Even an orphan tail piece would have a market IMHO for use with other vintage bridges missing one. Of course, a setup with integrated bridge/tail piece would be the ideal situation. Maybe that could happen as well.
Got a note tonight from Hipshot. They're gonna make some tail pieces! More info to come as soon as I hear back from them.
Im in for a couple. :mrgreen:Nice?
Quote from: drbassman on October 16, 2010, 11:46:44 AM
I agree guys. I think Scott should call them, I have encouraged him to do so!
Bill has been kind enough to grease the skids for me to talk to the folks at Hipshot and I will make that call as soon as I get the green light from Bill. The guy who ran my bridges is not even answering his phone. My bridge was never intended for anything other than vintage 60's birds, and the cost reflects that, plus they were costly to make due to the small numbers made. I am hoping that Hipshot can bring their expertise to my bridge and get the cost down. If they can get the cost down then it would be practical for applications other than vintage birds.
Quote from: drbassman on October 17, 2010, 05:42:33 AM
Even an orphan tail piece would have a market IMHO for use with other vintage bridges missing one. Of course, a setup with integrated bridge/tail piece would be the ideal situation. Maybe that could happen as well.
I would love to see that happen ! I Also have studs designed for my bridge that I would like to include in the package.
Quote from: godofthunder on October 19, 2010, 05:34:43 AM
I would love to see that happen ! I Also have studs designed for my bridge that I would like to include in the package.
Make the call!
Quote from: godofthunder on October 19, 2010, 05:34:43 AM
I would love to see that happen ! I Also have studs designed for my bridge that I would like to include in the package.
Best of Luck, Scott! You deserve it for coming up with a great solution to the vintage Tbird bridge problem. You understand what it should look like.
I made the call, I spoke with a very nice guy named Bill who does much of the design, one of and prototype work. He did tell me that he now recalls the encounter I had with Hipshot employees that examined my bass and bridge several years ago, nice to know I didn't imagine it. lets see what happens.
assuming price makes sense i am in for 3-4
I'm waiting to hear back from them as to how we go about ordering them and how much they'll cost. Stay tuned.............
Any news?
Got a note from Hipshot last night. It will be about a week and a half. I'll keep you all posted.
Bill from Hipshot just sent me a note also. He is coming out to our gig in Waterloo NY Saturday night. Bill you up for a road trip ?
i NEED a couple of T-Bird tail pieces ... one in black!!!!!
Quote from: godofthunder on November 09, 2010, 05:47:47 AM
Bill from Hipshot just sent me a note also. He is coming out to our gig in Waterloo NY Saturday night. Bill you up for a road trip ?
I'd love to, but Saturday is our anniversary! I've got plans.......... 8)
Quote from: sniper dog on November 09, 2010, 10:21:52 AM
i NEED a couple of T-Bird tail pieces ... one in black!!!!!
I assume they could do one in black, but it would probably be special order. He's working on the chrome or nickel look right now. He has to wait a week or so till the boss is back and then they can decide how to sell/price these things.
Quote from: drbassman on November 09, 2010, 10:22:07 AM
I'd love to, but Saturday is our anniversary! I've got plans.......... 8)
Well I can't compete with that ! A happy anniversary to you and Barb !
Quote from: godofthunder on November 09, 2010, 11:25:00 AM
Well I can't compete with that ! A happy anniversary to you and Barb !
Thanks Scott. 28 and counting!!!!!!!!!
Nice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! would you believe Cath and I are heading for 23 years :o
Congrats from the UK contingent, too...
Jackie and me are 21 and counting...
Cool guys! After 20, you really get to know someone well! We're very happy together, hope you are too!
Quote from: drbassman on November 09, 2010, 10:22:07 AM
I'd love to, but Saturday is our anniversary! I've got plans.......... 8)
Bill, not to steal your thunder, but tomorrow (Nov. 10) is JoAnn and my 26th anniversary. Congratulations to you, and delighted to join you in celebrating a long and happy relationship.
Wow, very cool! Have a great time Al! Life is good and even better with a good woman! ;D
23 years.....
Twenty-SEVEN :o!
Thanks Bill, and my congratulations to all those who have had so many happy years together!
:o...omg 30 in june ! :mrgreen:
Wow Shadow, you take top prize! Way to go!
:rimshot: oh boy what do I win :rolleyes:
Quote from: shadowcastaz on November 10, 2010, 08:17:59 AM
:rimshot: oh boy what do I win :rolleyes:
How about 30 more years! :toast:
Quote from: Pilgrim on November 09, 2010, 09:40:19 PM
Thanks Bill, and my congratulations to all those who have had so many happy years together!
who said happy ;)
Ill take it !....like I got a choice :mrgreen:
Quote from: shadowcastaz on November 10, 2010, 10:35:19 AM
Ill take it !....like I got a choice :mrgreen:
I pray we all get 30 more years!!!! ;D
That's why it's called "life" and you never get parole... ;)
hmmm, congrats guys. i am only going on the second year with my lady but she has a great mind (two bachelor degrees), is kind and has a great ass:
my Fran
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u275/cathousemouse/frantastic/100_0286.jpg)
Bettie Page at about the same age:
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u275/cathousemouse/frantastic/Bettie.jpg)
Fran now (and in this pic she is pushing 70):
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u275/cathousemouse/frantastic/Picture12.jpg)
she loves my playing bass so what more can a fellow ask for?
Very cool Sniper! I'd post pics of my honey, but she'd kick my butt for doing so! She thinks online forums are crazy!
+1
(I won't mention her crafting forums or I'll have my...)
Quote from: sniper dog on November 12, 2010, 10:58:46 AM
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u275/cathousemouse/frantastic/100_0286.jpg)
Looks like a holywood actress of that age, very nice pictures.
Heard through the grapevine the tailpieces are due next week. Stay tuned....... :)
It looks like Hipshot is going to be making the next run of the Badbird :) There will be some small improvements like a radius on the ends. I am also looking into studs specifically for the bridge, original studs work well and Tone pros well enough but I have a design that will work much better. This is pretty exciting, Hipshot is going to make and market the tail piece then drive tail piece customers to me, I'm pretty stoked.
Quote from: godofthunder on November 18, 2010, 07:34:40 AM
It looks like Hipshot is going to be making the next run of the Badbird :) There will be some small improvements like a radius on the ends. I am also looking into studs specifically for the bridge, original studs work well and Tone pros well enough but I have a design that will work much better. This is pretty exciting, Hipshot is going to make and market the tail piece then drive tail piece customers to me, I'm pretty stoked.
Right on!!!!
That's great news, Scott!
Wow, Sniper, She looks unbelievable for 70????? Good lookin' woman! You are blessed!
She's a cutie for sure!
thanks gents. i am blessed for sure. with Fran, all my kids and now 6 grand children so far, a custom built bass in the works and enough goodies to build another bass with a Sunn 200S clone, a tone ring 15" cab in waiting and an old blonde 2-12" cab already what more can a guy ask for?
i'll tell you what......about two T-Bird tailpieces is what!!! lol
Quote from: sniper dog on November 20, 2010, 08:37:49 AM
thanks gents. i am blessed for sure. with Fran, all my kids and now 6 grand children so far, a custom built bass in the works and enough goodies to build another bass with a Sunn 200S clone, a tone ring 15" cab in waiting and an old blonde 2-12" cab already what more can a guy ask for?
i'll tell you what......about two T-Bird tailpieces is what!!! lol
I'd say you've got it good for sure! Tailpieces should be in any day now!
Awesome !
Pics!!!!! Let us know when they arrive!!!!
Have you heard anything?
I sent him an email over a week ago and he didn't reply. Not like him to ignore me, so I'm gonna try him again.
Got a reply from Hipshot today and they are programming the tail pieces now, which I suspect we're talking CNC programming and production scheduling. So, they are moving forward!
Quote from: drbassman on December 13, 2010, 08:09:00 AM
Got a reply from Hipshot today and they are programming the tail pieces now, which I suspect we're talking CNC programming and production scheduling. So, they are moving forward!
Awesome, can't wait!!!
Thanks for all of your efforts!
Got another note from Hipshot. They said not to worry, it's just the Christmas rush and they are swamped, but the tail pieces are definitely forthcoming.
Most exellent!!
Quote from: dc10bass on December 13, 2010, 10:21:39 AM
Awesome, can't wait!!!
Thanks for all of your efforts!
My pleasure, I know what a hassle it is when you need one and can't get your hands on it.