So clue me in - Triumph content

wagdog · May 03, 2013, 05:14:01 PM

My local shop has a Triumph bass on it's wall. I checked it out and it seems in surprisingly good shape for it's age. All electronics are original and it even has the bridge cover and case. A few nicks and dings but nothing of importance. However, the one big 'but' is it needs a neck reset. You can see it lifting and the action is a mile high. I know nothing about such things. Is this a big deal? What would this cost? They are asking $1.7k but I suspect they are very flexible and unfortunately I've taken a shine to that little beastie!

Basvarken · May 04, 2013, 02:16:22 PM

I don't think it is very likely it would need a neck reset. That would mean the angle has been wrong since the day it was built. It is more likely the trussrod nut is (too) loose. When the neck has a major (back)bow the action can be very high. That would be an easy fix. Just tighten the nut. The price would be about right.

If the neck really needs a reset that would be a major issue and the price would be way too high.

Barklessdog · May 04, 2013, 04:50:19 PM

Ask them to email you pictures of it so you can get an estimate.

Dave W · May 04, 2013, 05:14:13 PM

If it does need a neck reset, the cost would probably be in the $300-400 range, plus any other work that might need to be done at the same time. Expensive, but as long as it's properly done, it will last for decades. Acoustics with dovetail joints are even more.

Agree with Rob, $1700 is too high for a Triumph if it needs a reset. Also make sure the truss rod is working properly.

wagdog · May 05, 2013, 06:10:22 AM

I actually played it for about an hour and the neck has indeed moved in its joint. The finger board has a 1/16" gap from the body and the neck heel has clearly shifted upward too. I don't know how long it's been like this but it probably explains why it's in such good shape. I may go back and see if they'll let me play with the truss and bridge and try to get the action acceptable. I'm not hopeful at this point though. I will say it is an amazing sounding bass and a bonus for us short scale lovers. Thanks for all your help! I knew I could get the straight scoop here.

Basvarken · May 05, 2013, 06:46:57 AM

Okay, so the neck is loose in the pocket.
Maybe that's good news for you after all. It is certainly a good point when you negociate about the price.
Try to talk $ 700 off and you may have good deal.

Granny Gremlin · May 06, 2013, 11:39:50 AM

Isn't 1.7K a little on the high side for a Triumph even if it doesn't need a neck reset? I will admit that I haven't been paying attention to prices lately (the last couple years).

wagdog · May 06, 2013, 01:46:55 PM

I get the distinct impression this store threw a dart at the 'vintage pricing' dartboard, hit 'early 70's Gibson' and came up with 1.7K. They really don't have a clue what they have or what it's really worth. Also, I'm still internally debating whether I want a problem child even if I can get it cheap enough.

doombass · May 06, 2013, 03:00:12 PM

I'd say 1700$ would be an ok price for one in really nice condition. They seem to go in the 1400-1800$ range nowadays depending on condition but yet playable.

Basvarken · May 06, 2013, 04:10:47 PM

I sold my Triumph last year for 1550 euro (which is about 2025 USD)
It was in a good condition. No issues, just some buckle rash and small dings here and there.

Granny Gremlin · May 07, 2013, 11:39:21 AM

Good for you, but European (and Aussie) prices (for US-made guitars, especially vintage) are always significantly higher than NA prices.

drbassman · May 07, 2013, 12:06:54 PM

I bought mine for $1500 a few years back with zero issues and little wear. I think it's high if it needs work and is worn. A neck reset would be a real deal breaker for me. IMHO they'll never get what they are asking. Or shouldn't anyway.

uwe · May 08, 2013, 05:21:08 PM

Quote from: Basvarken on May 06, 2013, 04:10:47 PM
I sold my Triumph last year for 1550 euro (which is about 2025 USD)
It was in a good condition. No issues, just some buckle rash and small dings here and there.

What about your prototype?!!! Don't forget me!!!

Basvarken · May 09, 2013, 10:40:18 AM

The prototype has been reinstalled in the line up of basses.
It was neglected for years because of scratchy/faulty potentiometers.
Last week I decided to look under the hood once more in a last attempt to turn it into a more reliable bass.
I carefully opened op the ancient potentiometer and cleaned the inside with a cottontip.
Et voila! No more scratching noises no more drop outs! Yeehaaw.

Rehearsed with it this week. And I'm taking it to the gig tonite.

If I ever grow tired of it, you're the first to know Uwe.

BTW
Did you know the other prototype plus the guitar version fetched 42.000 USD last summer at the auction of Les Paul's gear?

copacetic · May 09, 2013, 12:26:48 PM

The bass in that case there looks pretty. Is the headstock the same as the guitar? Only a prototype eh?..