Question about refretting

[Picure]

I am considering a refret for my series 1 Alembic from 1980 and sending it back to Santa Rosa is not an option for me because I live in Taiwan. I would like to ask if I could purchase a full set of frets from Alembic for this refret or what brand/size frets should I get? I will have a luthier do it for me but I would like to get the correct frets.

Thanks!
 

[pauldo]

I would suggest you first have a local luthier look at it.  Sometimes a fret redress is all you need.

[edwin]

I think the fret wire itself is fairly standard, and since 1980 there have been many newer options that have been developed. I would consult with your local luthier first. If they don't have a clue, find a better luthier. A good one will know about all the wire out there and would probably even be able to identify what's on there now.

[mica]

Originally the bass probably had a jumbo fret like Dunlop 6150 or similar. If your frets are worn to the point that they are affecting playability, then of course it's a good idea to have them either resurfaced or replaced. But really evaluate the condition yourself - even frets that look pretty nasty may not affect the playability depending on your technique. Trust your own opinion to decide this matter.

You can replace with any type of fret you like - though I caution the use of mandolin or banjo sized frets as they do indeed wear much faster and will need more frequent replacing, but some players prefer them for their individual techniques.