INTONATION (ROUGHING IT OUT)
You can preset the basic intonation of your bass by taking a tape measure and
measuring from the inside of the nut to the center of the 12th fret
(
the fret wire itself; not
the fingerboard
)
. Double that measurement to find the scale length of your bass.
Adjust the first-string bridge saddle to this scale length, measuring from the inside of the
nut to the center of the bridge saddle. Now adjust the distance of the second saddle
back from the first saddle, using the gauge of the second string as a measurement. For
example, if the second string is .060" (1.5 mm), you would move the second-string
saddle back .060" (1.5 mm) from the first saddle. Move the third saddle back from the
second saddle, using the gauge of the third string as a measurement. Adjust the fourth
saddle in the same manner (and fifth if you have a five-string bass).
ACTION
Players with a light touch can get away with lower action; others need higher action to
avoid rattles. First, check tuning. Using a 6" (150 mm) ruler, measure the distance
between bottom of strings and top of the 17th fret. Adjust bridge saddles to the height
according to the chart below, then re-tune. Experiment with the height until the desired
sound and feel is achieved.
Neck Radius
String Height Bass Side
Treble Side
7.25"
9.5" to 12"
15" to 17"
7/64" (2.8 mm)
6/64" (2.4 mm)
6/64" (2.4 mm)
6/64" (2.4 mm)
5/64" (2 mm)
5/64" (2 mm)
PICKUPS
Setting pickups too high can cause a number of unusual occurrences. Depress strings
at last fret. Using a 6" (150 mm) ruler, measure the distance from the bottom of the first
and fourth strings to top of the pole piece. A good rule of thumb is that the distance
should be greatest at the fourth-string neck pickup position and closest at the first-string
bridge pickup position. Follow the measurement guidelines from the chart below as
starting points. The distance will vary according to the amount of magnetic pull from the
pickup.
Note: Larger string gauges need wider vibrational allowances. If you have a five-string
bass or are using heavier-gauge strings, your measurements must be increased
accordingly.