BB FL

86kubicki · Post by **86kubicki** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 5:50 am

On the current FL's, is it both the side markers and the fretboard dots that are set up like a fretted bass? If so, that would be confusing! Were both sets of markers on the "fret lines" on older models?

johnhall · Post by **johnhall** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 6:37 am

We're just refixturing to make this change today. The side dots will be on the fret lines, with a double dot either side of the 12th. The fingerboard playing surface will have the dot inlays in the traditional position that a fretted instrument would have.

We've gone back and forth on this over the years but I think this hybrid is the the best combination to suit not only non-fretless transitioners but also the old timers.

If it's good enough for Bunny Brunel and Alain Caron, it's good enough for me!

shinynewtoy · Post by **shinynewtoy** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 6:41 am

Any chance of an eventual lined fretless, for complete fretless morons? If it's good enough for Jaco...

86kubicki · Post by **86kubicki** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 6:55 am

Thanks John - that's great news! I was a bit hesitant about ordering a FL based on the side-marker position. Guess I have no excuse now!

shinynewtoy · Post by **shinynewtoy** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 7:37 am

Correction. I just looked back through the thread and saw a pic of the old side dot position.... I might be placing an order soon, pending a question or two!

rictified · Post by **rictified** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 8:00 am

I've had two of the old dot position Ric basses and still have one: a 72 4001FL and it is a nice easy way to play them and looks much better than lines across the neck. I had a new Fender J with the lines and hated it. With dots at the side you don't have to look at the front of the neck, I never do.
Tony, I'm having a member of this forum (I think) put new binding on the side of mine.
Jaco's bass was a converted fretted bass which is why his had lines.

shinynewtoy · Post by **shinynewtoy** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 8:06 am

I didn't see the side dot pic until a little while ago, and I agree Bob... much better look!

Now to just know when I an order one with side dots and a 'shoe...

rictified · Post by **rictified** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 8:11 am

I don't know about the shoe, haha!

shinynewtoy · Post by **shinynewtoy** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 8:24 am

Paging Mr. Hall...

ajish4 · Post by **ajish4** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 10:14 am

Wow, now THAT is impressive!

THANK YOU Mr. John Hall, You just cured my bout of depression from yesterday regarding the anniversary bass issue! Well, almost

I agree with Bob Young, I also have a Fender Fretless but it has those lines on the fingerboard. YUCH. The 4003FL fingerboards are STUNNINGLY beautiful. The side dots are enough for me! COOL! THANKS AGAIN John!

Now, my ONLY regret is that it wasn't ordered with a TOASTER. The Mrs. ordered it for me as a surprise, again, but I found the paperwork by accident. I'm just loopy over that toaster sound!
Mr Hall, is here ANY way of changing an order to INCLUDE a toaster in the neck position without losing my place in line for making the change?

Thanks again!

incubus2432 · Post by **incubus2432** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 10:19 am

Why not just buy a toaster and install it when the bass arrives?

ajish4 · Post by **ajish4** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 10:24 am

Brian:

I thought of it but I'm paranoid I'll void the warrantee. If it can't be done, that's most likely the road I'll take.

86kubicki · Post by **86kubicki** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 10:24 am

Tony - I think any changes to an existing order puts it to the back of the queue. It's probably best to do as Brian suggests and buy the toaster after the fact and sell the high gain if you don't want to hold onto it.

ajish4 · Post by **ajish4** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 10:26 am

Hey Steve:

I was afraid of that. Good advice. I don't want to go to the back of the line again!

I appreciate it guys!

incubus2432 · Post by **incubus2432** » Thu Jun 01, 2006 10:44 am

At worst you wouldn't have warranty coverage on the toaster p/u or any part of the wiring you destroy when you install it.