8 string conversion 4003s vs 4004

[Kirschgeist]

Hi!

There are nearly no 8 strings with straight neck available, so I´m thinking of converting a 4003s or 4004.

Are there any experiences, which one has the more stable neck joint?

And I can´t find a 8 string bridge with individual saddles, where the string spacing is narrow enough.

Regards
Alex

[aceonbass]

I've done several 8-string conversions on 4003's and one on a 4004. There isn't really a "neck joint" per se, but some models in certain years are more rigid in this area than others due to the size of the neck pickup route. 4003's since April 2014 have had a smaller revised neck pickup route. There is no 8-string bass bridge with individually adjusted saddles that fits a 4003's neck taper, but in my experience, it doesn't matter. The strings get a little out of tune as you play the bass, and any perceived advantage to having individual saddles is lost. I like the stock tailpiece assembly for my conversions. The headstock will need to be altered of course.

[Kirschgeist]

Thank you Dane!

So i will look for a newer 4003s.

Regards
Alex

[ram]

Dane, least we not forget this masterpiece:

[jdogric12]

While nothing will fully replace a Rick of any kind, do consider the Hagstrom HB8 reissue. I have one and love it.

[aceonbass]

Dane, least we not forget this masterpiece:

5.jpg

Hey Tom....That was the 2nd 8-string conversion Bruce and I did. I've wondered...with the neck pickup route close to the fretboard like that, have you had any negative neck angle development?

[ram]

Hi Dane, It's fine... nothing I can see or feel. Neck straight, fretboard intact, headstock attached and functioning! I couldn't be happier with it. Still plays well and sounds unbelievable! Anything specuial I should be looking for?

[aceonbass]

I was just wondering if the neck had flexed upward where it meets the body because of the neck pickup route being where it is. If it hasn't by now with all that string tension, then it probably never will, so that's good to know.

[Kirschgeist]

Good to hear. So the pre 2008 4004 is also an option.
The route is quite small because it is mounted directly into the wood.

[ram]

I'd have to defer to structural experts (Dane) on that. I just know my '93 converted nicely... and that Dane's headstock is beautiful and well thought out. Dane - I just came up from playing the 4004l8 and I didn't notice anything so if there is anything that has happened it is very slight. The intonations is pretty good - as good as before and adjusting the neck is as I remember before... tweaking a little seasonally. just love playing it and the sounds I can get from it. Today was effect peds - BLAM !!

Hagstrom - is why I have this bass.... Noel was when I first heard one.......the die was cast.