How to make my Warwick more playable?

[BenFox04]

Hey guys,

I've always loved playing my Corvette but I can't get around the fact that I just can't get the speed or fidelity with it that I managed on my terrible old Squier MB bass. I think it's mostly to do with the string gauge and the action level. Would the Corvette handle a smaller string do you think and how easy is lowering the action?

Cheers.

 

[lasteffect]

maybe its the neck. Warwicks have two neck shapes, big U and thin C.

 

[siderocks]

High action tends to be the playability killer. It makes the strings stiff and uncomfortable and playing hard and tiresome. Luckily Warwicks are easy to setup. You can use the manual or even better check the instructional videos here Warwick Basses Amps & Rock'n Roll

 

[Augie]

You can set them up for thinner strings as well, a lighter gauge will bend more easily, and can be faster to play, certainly you will be able to play with a lighter touch. The disadvantage of lighter strings is that they can feel a little slack, and do not down-tune as well as thicker strings. i recommend you try different strings and different setups till you find the sweet spot that is right for you. Regarding the thick necks it mght have to do with technique, it can be easy to play quickly on thin necks with your palm mashed onto the back of the neck and oyur thumb over the top, this is pretty much a no-no with the big ol Us. make sure your thumb is on the mid line of the back of the neck to give you better speed and strength.

 

[verb]

Hi,
I recommend you try DR round core strings like the HiBeams.The round core makes them more flexible then normal hex core strings,and you may find you do not need to go to a lighter gauge.

 

[thefitz]

maybe its the neck. Warwicks have two neck shapes, big U and thin C.

I'm just gonna come out and say it - if the neck thickness actually impacts your playing speed, you have shit technique. Every person who thinks Warwick necks are too thick should put down the Ibanez before it caves in under string tension and play upright for a while.

(Not directed at anyone in particular, just saying)

 

[shaftbass]

High action tends to be the playability killer. It makes the strings stiff and uncomfortable and playing hard and tiresome. Luckily Warwicks are easy to setup. You can use the manual or even better check the instructional videos here Warwick Basses Amps & Rock'n Roll

I've found that those videos are good starting points, but following them to a T leaves the strings really high both at the nut end and the bridge end. Easily remedied by lowering both. One thing I've found while setting up basses is just how important setting the individual string heights to the fretboard radius is to the overall feel and playabillity of the bass, as well as sound.

 

[jester]

One thing I've found while setting up basses is just how important setting the individual string heights to the fretboard radius is to the overall feel and playabillity of the bass, as well as sound.

Indeed Chris, and the Warwick bridge makes that easy to do. Big plus there.