BassBod

Normally, I've found Thomastiks need to have the truss rod loosened a bit (not much at all, maybe a quarter turn?) and then I also move the bridge saddles up (again only a touch, maybe one turn) to compensate for the floppiness. After that they still need a gentle touch, but are very nice when you get used to the feel. Lovely sound.

I've used superglue a flew times - works well, but is a pain to apply and sand back. You really only need the thinnest of coverings to get the protection and sound, so its a good result (depending on the fingerboard condition).

When I had one I found two sets that worked were DR Sunbeams (nickel round) and Thomastik flats (floppy flats). Couldn't decide which was better, but different flavours of the Warwick sound to me.

Aren't they a "part" of the Mansons operation? Some info from owners would be welcome....

You're a brave man. With a plywood bass....

You'll have to get three tone sunburst settee....

Sounds like the perfect reason for an upright bass bash to me.....I can't think of any other way of getting access to loads of basses...some of them affordable!

[quote name='walbassist' timestamp='1330596558' post='1559863'] I liked the Mono bag but never really though the protection was that good. The Contego wins on that score but is a lot heavier. The Protection Racket is also a nice bag, but it bugs me that they're so deep, you could almost fit two basses in there! [/quote] I think I bought the Levy's bag from you a couple of years ago? What was it you didn't like about them - its my regular gigging bag these days, and apart from limited storage, I find it hard to fault. I even bought a double version (and I don't like double bags!).

I had a bit of a shock when I got my Zeller hybrid set up recently. Completely transformed from a "so-so..not worth the effort" player to something that sounds like a bass should and makes you want to try and play it better. If you've not done it already, could it be worth a visit to good luthier before you start the expensive trade up trail?

Nice one - thats a real treat!

There is a reunion blues bag in the for sales - vey similar to the Levys CM19 in design and spec. Bit of wear, but I'd consider it at the price.

Strings direct used to sell them (Levys) but doesn't look like it currently. I got mine used on here a few years ago and they're still in great condition after a few years dragging around. There is a USA evilbay seller (Doc1rock?) who can do pretty good prices, but obviously shipping and taxes get in the way!

The Contego is a big bag/case...but its fairly light and the strap system is very comfy for longer walks, probably the best I've used. I prefer the Levy's CM19 canvas bag, but mainly because its smaller and (slightly) lighter - the trade off is storage space. The Contego has lots, but everything you put in adds to the total weight. Not used a Mono, but seen them and they look very light but well made.

I think its great that "Paul's" current Wal production is so close to Pete's later instruments that even we (the bass obsessed) can't spot a difference!

Good to hear your blonde is shaping up well! My next step is going to be a full fingerboard shoot, and strip the 'oribble finish off the back of the neck. I'll probably get the finish off first, and then have a minor re-carve done to make the profile a bit slimmer. But before that I've got to just play the thing until those Spirocores don't seem so scary......

Probably worth a wanted add and a word with some dealers (Gallery). There are probably a few spare necks about - Wal used threaded inserts for the bolts, which made it more practical to swap over (holes didn't strip like wood screws do). I know I passed my Pro IIE on with both a fretted and fretless neck, and the new owner probably has one left..... Edit - for the following; Thinking about it, PM me if you're interested and I may be able to "find" one? Worst case scenario is it will need a new fingerboard....but could be potentially quick and cheap-ish?

Time for a follow up on this. Made the trip to Frome to see Martin Penning, and I'm very pleased with the results. I was starting to give up on the Zeller, but now its got a new well fitted sound post, the bridge has been properly seated to the top and its wearing a set of Spirocores. Its sounds like a double bass! The strings are harder work, and the fingerboard is going to need a bit of attention, but now it feels worth the effort and I want to play it. Martin was great to work with, and not in the least bit "snobby" about working on a lowly bass..to a low(ish) budget. I just wish I'd done it last year! Thanks again to all for the info