pjmuck wrote:
Killer P! Sid Vicious would be proud.
You know, I used to immediately dismiss heavier instruments (especially the 70's Fender stuff) since they would wear me out by the end of a gig, but there's just something about that additional mass that makes it all worthwhile. You just feel like you're getting your money's worth with these, and the added wood weight does seem to deepen the tone, IMO. (My former '77 J weighed 12lbs as well and had such a meaty sound). I've experimented with straps and playing height, and now there's no discernible difference or fatigue when I play a heavier instrument.
The 70's Fenders do have a vibe all their own.
Agreed on all your points. Your '77 J must have been a thing of beauty. For me, I'm never bothered by the weight while playing. That's the point, anyway...to get lost in the music and the moment. It's only in-between tunes when mind loses out to (a gruntload of) matter. Regardless, both of my basses are 12 lbs., so it's not like I know any better.