smthng wrong with bass or strings… or me!

Temperature definitely makes a difference on my basses, and on the gut string bass, humidity takes some of the snap out of the strings. I have to watch the bridge on the basses as well, because constant tuning tends to pull the bridge up and change the action and tension. It’s a good idea to check the intonation(octave harmonic) with a tuner occasionally to make sure the bridge is where it’s supposed to be.

In order to make sure the bridge is in the right location, check the feet in relation to the f-holes. If you know your basses string length, use a good solid ruler and measure from the end of the nut to the top of the bridge. Over time, the technique of slapping will cause the bridge to move as we are constantly pulling the string out and relieving the tension on the bridge. This is especially true for those of us using low tension strings (gut’s velvet’s, tuned down solo strings, etc.) A simple knock back into place is usually all that’s required.

[b]Metalstorm wrote:[/b]
[quote]

Kevin do you have any more info/tips on how to do that? I know how to set the intonation on electric but no idea on upright as theirs no frets so no idea where the octave should be. I was always wondering how to tell if you have the bridge in the right spot, other than putting it between the notches of the f-holes which doesnt always seem to be easy to tell if its right.[/quote]

you’ll find the open string octave harmonic in the same place- 12th note up from the open. just find the spot it rings most clearly, then press down and compare the stopped note against the harmonic.
if stopped note is sharp to the harmonic, bridge goes towards tail
if its flat to the harmonic, bridge goes toward neck..in small increments obviously..use a good tuner unless you have great ears.

its a pain in the ass to set, but they are really forgiving considering the huge scale length of a bass..just have to be in the ballpark. trying to set it proper on a ukulele REALLY sucks..