adding fretboard markers?

[freys]

Greetings,
I am close to purchasing a used Essence 6-string. There is one odd (?) feature: it is a fretted instrument but has no markers, either inlays on the fretboard or on the side of the neck.

Moving from 4- to 6-strings will be a challenge, but one that I am excited about undertaking. However, I am pretty sure that lacking markers will make this even more difficult. Do any of you who have made the transition to 5- or 6-strings have thoughts on this?  Is it possible fro Alembic or an independent luthier to add markers to an existing fretboard?

Appreciatively,
Scott

[jazzyvee]

Hi, i have had a few of my alembic instruments inlaid at the 12th fret, by Jaydee Custom Guitars,  after i purchased them. I'm sure any decent luthier would have no problem in adding inlays to your bass. You could also ask Alembic to do it too.

There are alternatives for side markers such as luminay that can be self installed if you are competent with a drill. You could also consider FretFX  https://fretfx.com/ which are stick on led side markers. There are a few members here who use them, including myself and they are fine.

[gtrguy]

I just had this done to a guitar I own that had no markers of any kind. The markers are not too expensive and since I am a visual kind of person they helped a lot. It was a 'must have' for me to be able to play it on stage.

[freys]

Thanks gtrguy and jaxxyvee. Guess that I have no reasons left NOT to buy the 6-string!
Be well,
Scott

[freys]

and...the Alembic Essence 6-string is on its way!

[StephenR]

One of the members here added stick on inlays to his Rogue bass, may be worth considering as a prequel to getting the neck inlaid. Would help you transition to multi-string and buy you some time before losing use of the instrument while the inlays are being added. I love the look of a bass neck with no inlays but like many rely on them to "see" the patterns and scales as I play, I haven't found the side LEDs to offer the same visual fix but they are very helpful on a dark stage.

Looking forward to your impressions of the Essence once you get it.

[freys]

Thanks StephenR. I will definitely investigate the temporary stick-on options prior to having a local luthier here in St. Louis do the work. Updates to follow.

[xlrogue6]

I've got these on my Messenger EUB and my real upright. Nicely visible in low light conditions, and you can't beat the price!
gollihurmusic.com/stick-on-fingerboard-markers-temporary-inlays-side-dots/

[freys]

Thanks for all of the suggestions. I ended up ordering a set of these for a temporary solution. They are cheap and groovy, and I am certain to get sick of them soon enough, which will incentivize getting the bass to my local luthier.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WWFLYR4?psc=1&smid=A2ZS28UNEH8NPX&ref_=chk_typ_imgToDp