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Note: This is another one of those personal preference adjustments and a good starting point.
Fine tuning can be done when all is set.
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.
Standard "J" or "P"
Bass 7/64" (2.8 mm) .610+.584+.559+.533+.508
Treble 5/64" (2 mm) .610+.584+.559+.254
INTONATION (FINE TUNING)
Adjustments should be made after all of the above have been accomplished.
Check tuning. Check each string at the 12th fret, (make sure you are depressing the string
evenly to the fret, not the fingerboard). If sharp, lengthen the string by adjusting the saddle back
turning the saddle screw clockwise. If flat, shorten the string by moving the saddle forward
turning the saddle screw counter clockwise. Remember, basses are tempered instruments!
Re-tune, play and make further adjustments as needed.
ADDITIONAL HINTS
There are a few other things that you can do to optimize your tuning stability that have more to
do with playing and tuning habits.
Each time you play your bass, before you do your final tuning, play for a few minutes to allow
the strings to warm up. Metal expands when warm and contracts when cool. After you've played
a few riffs and done a few slaps and pops, you can then do your final tuning. Remember—with
most tuning keys, it's preferable to tune up to pitch. However, with locking tuners, go past the
note and tune down to pitch. Finally, wipe the strings, neck and bridge with a lint-free cloth after
playing. When transporting or storing your bass, even for short periods, avoid leaving it
anyplace you wouldn't feel comfortable.
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