Risk101

Met with Ian a couple of times now, with more in the diary, and just to say I would really recommend him to fellow basschatters. I think I'm a pretty decent bassist, but on the basis that there is always more to learn, and its easy to get into a rut, wanted some extra input/coaching (focusing on technique, melodic improvisation etc). Not only is Ian a great bassist, but he's also a top bloke !

Took the Maruszczyk out for its first gig on Sunday, having only heard it so far through the Phil Jones practice amp. The sound using my TC Electronic head and Warwick/Ashdown cabs was incredible. Huge bottom end with both PU in series mode, but settled mostly for neck PU in parallel and bridge PU in series, which gave a nice rounded tone, but with plenty of top end. Best bit was how even the sound was across the fretboard whether low E/F or high Notes on the 15/17th fret etc. The B string was tight enough although needs a bit of handling with care. After my early issues, the action has settled down nicely (thanks for all your comments) - all in all, a very, very nice piece of kit - I'm trying not to look at Funkydarios photos above !! (No money left anyway !)

Update on the set-up issue! I found a couple of useful videos by Adrian M - didn't tell me anything I didn't know about how to do a set-up but underlined that it is a personal thing - you'll find the videos here if you are interested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrTNzFjXMHE (Part 1) and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Dqy6SIeKAY (part 2) Anyway, a 1/8th turn of the truss rod seemed to do nothing, then a 1/4 turn added a huge amount of relief, so I eased it back a little and left it overnight. It settled nicely with gentle relief, and I could take the saddles back down very low (Hipshot B bridge) and now have what I would consider a low action, with only the slightest buzz on the B string. So all looking good !

Thanks for this - first bass I've had with a zero fret, so I was wondering if the open string buzz (which is the main problem) was due to the zero fret not being substantial/high enough, but Adrian & co have done hundreds of basses with them so I very much doubt that - just my unfamiliarity with it (I rather liked the Warwick adjustable nut - sorry to mention that on this thread ). BD have said to give the truss a 1/4 turn to increase the neck relief, which will hopefully mean I can lower the saddles again to get a nice low action (which is my preference - highly subjective of course) so I'll give that a go this evening. Thanks for all the feedback - its really appreciated !! David

Don't forget that this bass came fro BD not direct from Adrian though - I've turned the truss rod 1/4 turn, and that has enabled the saddles to be lowered so the action is still very low, and the open string buzzing has gone! I'm now experimenting a bit with the series/single/parallel switches - has these on my Wick $$. Will plug it into my rig tomorrow evening - can't wait! Thanks for all the comments and feedback from other Maruszczyk owners - I'm pleased to be "in the club" 👍

I dropped a note to Adrian about the action, and got a response within an hour (I sent it at 7.00am before leaving for work!) and he suggested an 1/8th turn of the truss rod. I'm glad to hear its not just mine! Its making the action on my Shuker look positively high I take Nick's point though about when played through an amp at "normal" volumes. I might turn the truss rod and drop the saddles back a tad. As WaterofTyne says though, the build quality is top notch.

Just arrived - beautiful piece of craftsmanship - looking forward to hooking it up to my rig. The action was so low that even open strings buzzed - the neck relief seems ok so I've lifted the saddles a little 👍 The woods used are outstanding!

Good to know, thanks - can't wait to get my hands on it!!

Ha ha! Well I'm trading in a Warwick but still have my Shuker - I just fancied trying a Maruszczjk because they seem like lovely instruments - you're pleased with yours I assume!

Indeed - Delano's and yes, from BD , Poplar top by the way..

I'm pleased to say that I will be taking delivery of this beauty soon ! Sadly has meant I've had to let go of my Wick Dirty Blond, but how many basses can a man play ?!!