I really like the look of block inlays; however, I won't spend extra just to get them if they aren't already standard on the instrument I want.
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Who Loves Block Inlay Fretboards ?
- Thread starter 57pbass
- Start date
I like them but unfortunately don't have any. Just never had them on basses that I otherwise liked.
My opinion is painted headstock does more for the overall look but that's for another thread.
I've seen the stickers for adding these but that seems like it's not in my patience-wheelhouse. My overall experience with repetitive things like that is they all look like a drunk monkey did the work.
My opinion is painted headstock does more for the overall look but that's for another thread.
I've seen the stickers for adding these but that seems like it's not in my patience-wheelhouse. My overall experience with repetitive things like that is they all look like a drunk monkey did the work.
I much prefer blocks over any other look other than maybe a dark, unlined fretless fingerboard (not that I could play one well!)…
Binding I can take or leave…most times I prefer blocked and unbound, as on my only currently owned example:
These have some especially intense figure:
Binding I can take or leave…most times I prefer blocked and unbound, as on my only currently owned example:
These have some especially intense figure:
Maple with black blocks and binding is the sexiest thing ever on an instrument. Ironically, I don't own a bass with this setup even though I love it!
I like em, not married to them, but definitely dating Ricky (OK, more of a shark fin, but close enough.) and Jazzy.
I never had block inlays in all my years of basses. It wasn't until I ordered and built my 2nd Warmoth project that I decided to go for blocks. Not gigged yet but I am very happy with the result.
Only have one with blocks, but it’s also the sharpest looking bass I have.
I like 'em OK depending on the bass - they're cool on my CIJ Geddy (though I'd rather have the pearly ones than the black). Overall though I'm one of what I think is a minority on TB--I ultimately prefer simple dots, non-painted headstocks, and no binding.
Not to throw a wrench in the inlay party, but I just listened to the most recent episode of the Scott's Bass Lessons podcast where Scott is talking about having a custom FBass made for him. Apparently, Marcel at FBass says block inlays hamper the tone. I believe the story was, when they make a run of 10 basses and one of them is a standout, it never has block inlays. They also mention that Marcel says neck construction is the most important part of fundamental tone, and the theory is that removing large chunks of the fingerboard cuts down on resonance and stability.
I have not tested/verified this for myself, but it's interesting the think about. I've always loved the look, but that little nugget of wisdom has made me think twice.
I have not tested/verified this for myself, but it's interesting the think about. I've always loved the look, but that little nugget of wisdom has made me think twice.
- Dec 15, 2021
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- Disclosures
- GHS Strings, Nordstrand Audio, and Tsunami Cables Artist
Another excuse to post my favorite bass (Jaguar) (well with my close second as well) ?? Okay okay.. I have always loved the blocks! They look extra classy and give my Jaguar the look
