Calling all of the "set-up" experts

[oddjob]

I have to reset my Bongos for Eb and was wondering if any of you had any extra advice for this type of setup. I have done 440 E setups with little problem (I am no where as good as the EBMM guys, but that is a given) and was wondering if any of you had tips to avoid floppy strings and such. Thanks!

 

[skabassist13]

Thicker strings, let it settle for a bit, adjust as necessary.

 

[Figjam]

Definitely thicker strings. After that it should tell you what it wants to do as far as neck and string height.

 

[maddog]

If you like slinkys try the powers. Tightened up the B string to where I liked it on my 5er.

 

[tkarter]

I don't really find a floppy b string using strings I can't mention the name of here that are what folks call low tension. I regulary tune down to Bb Eb.

tk

 

[Randracula]

I've played in CGCF tuning with my SR4 with no problems.....If it does get floppy I put a little more relief in the neck....

 

[JB1]

I'm 1/2 a tone down, right across my SR4, with no neck adjustment.

I play 50, 70, 90 & 110 for current and regular 'E' tuning with no issues.

 

[strummer]

My expericene: To get the same tightness of the strings, step up one gauge for a 1/2 step down tuning. Then neck should be fine without adjustment.

Or just tune down 1/2 step and loosen the t-rod a tad if it straightens too much.
If you use the same strings but tune down you will need a hair more relief because the strings get a bit looser.

 

[oddjob]

Thanks to one and all for the insight. I think I got it nailed on the RR Bongo. I set it up before practice and it ran pretty good through its paces (still needs just a tiny bit of tweaking)... So onward now to the other 2. I truly appreciate the input - that is what makes this place so great!

 

[tkarter]

What I would do tuning down a half step if I wasn't happy. Raise the action and pull the bridges back and make sure my intonation still was on. Higher strings isn't a bad thing on a down tune to me. In fact IMHO the higher you have them the further you can pull the bridges back and have the correct intonation.

I ain't no expert by far but my Fender did teach me a little bit. That neck never stayed where I put it once. I compromised.

My EB basses seem to hang no matter how I set them up. That is due to quality of construction.

IMHO

tk