I went to the used music store near the Peabody and saw this crazy EUB. It's an Ampeg upright that's gotta be 30 years old. It's so wierd looking: the body is made of wood, about 1/3 the size of a normal upright, then it's surrounded by a 3 inch "bumper" made of plastic. The bridge is made of metal, either aluminum or stainless steel, and the volume knob is located right below it. The guy wanted $1600 for it. Anybody know anything about this bass? Is the price unreasonable for one in fair condition?

It's an Ampeg Baby Bass. The body is NOT wood, it's fiberglass :eek:

The bridge feet extend into the body and have small coils wrapped around them, so the pickup is actually a magnetic system but detects bridge motion rather than string motion.

$1600 is on the high side of the going rate.

Cool. Thanks, Brian!:D

I recently bought an Ampeg Baby Bass presumably from the later 60's. It was strung up with an astounding sounding set of Gut strings, plain D and G and Silver wound E and A. The A string was shreaded with the silver wrapper was coming off everywhere. I thought I'd try some other strings so I tried a set of Helicore Hybrids (Med) which sounded a whole lot like my Fender fretless (been there done that). Lost all those short notes and big round tone. Felt like super light flatwound electric bass strings. Hated them. Took those off and put on a new set of Labella 980's gut. That set, the E was dead or falsing, the A sounded pretty good, and the D and G were hollow sounding. I played two 3 set nights on them. Thought they might break in but I don't think so. I'll keep those as spares.

I put the E D and G from the orginal old set back on with the A from the Labella's and that sounds great again. Big fat tone, real big notes that have little to no sustain. Great for the Country and Salsa things I'm doing.

I'm probably going to use that set for awhile. Meanwhile I'm thinking ahead to when these things finally give up. I fear not to long from now. The E is already blacking out pretty good. They are kind of drifty and need frequent tuning. I'd prefer to just get a fresher set of the old things.

Thing is I can't figure out what these old things are. I've surfed around here and on Quinn's site and other places trying to ID these old Guts. They have Purple wrapper on the silvered strings on both ends. Maybe what looks like a little greenish thread underneath. The plain guts have nothing on them anywhere. They feel lighter in tension than the Labella's. Any guesses?

The local double bass guys are suggesting I try Spirocore's, Supernil's and Labella Black tapewounds. I'm still thinking gut. Pirastro Eudoxa and Olive's perhaps? Or Velvet Garbo's? Overkill with the Baby Bass? Any opinions?

I think labella makes ampeg upright strings...check
http://www.lemurmusic.com

Purple on both ends? If your E&A are flat-wound, they sound like Thomastik Dominants, which are actually perlon-core, designed to emulate gut. Your plain guts could be anything. If you're looking to get a complete new set, Lemur sells 'European Gut' (Efrano) sets for under $200, and Bob Gollihur sells Lenzners for about the same... Pretty affordable, as guts go.

I think labella makes ampeg upright strings...check
http://www.lemurmusic.com
In fact, they offer several DB strings sets in BB lenghts, but not a specific BB strings set.

[Brent Norton]"Purple on both ends? If your E&A are flat-wound, they sound like Thomastik Dominants, which are actually perlon-core, designed to emulate gut."

Could be, but If you mean flat wound like the helicore wrap its more like a roundwound. Pretty thin like small round gage wire. Interesting thought though. Perhaps a synthetic gut may be more usefull in regular giging.

For those of you that might be interested I've installed Spirocore solo strings in orchestra tuning on the Baby at the urging of some Salsa players. They don't have the roundness of tone or the warmth of gut but they are very consistent and punchy sounding. They have super sustain (almost to much) and clear clean note that is very useful and easier to play with than the guts I've used up to now. This is a tone I wasn't really expecting out of the Baby Bass. I have some Eudoxa's waiting in the wings for when I get bored with the Spiros but so far I'm digging the spiros. I've played a handfull of gigs with them and all is well. I've got a wood bridge with the K&K bass max pickup in a wing coming from Azola for more tone options and will post a review of that after I install it.

Ok I know it's a Baby Bass and not a real URB but hey someone may be scanning for this experience so here you go.

Anyone out there having experience with or knowledge about Colombian Baby Basses? I have come across at least four makers in the city of Cali making Baby Basses (i.e. old style Ampeg fiberglass body basses). I guess to some extent it reflects the popularity of salsa music in Latin America, plus it´s probably rather easy to make molds for the fiberglass bodies (all these guys also make conga drums). It seems they also make their own diaphragm pickups.

The makers are Bladimir "Blady" Torres (website http://www.valgame.com/html2/bladimir_basses.htm), Sendel (by one Fernando Garcia Mesa), M.O.G. (by Mauro Ortega), and Simet.

Some of their basses are straight Ampeg replicas, some have smaller bodies and headless necks, and some of them are quite futuristic, often finished in bright metallic paint.

I can´t say how they stand up to vintage Ampeg or new Azola or Ramirez basses, but the fact that one small Colombian town holds four bass makers is intriguing. I suspect there may be even more such bass makers in Latin America - I have seen several offering "baby basses", but then again it´s quite often used as a synonym for EUB.

(Pls no jokes about crack in the necks and other references to Colombian pharmaceutical export...)

This is TBDB....the DB standing for DOUBLE BASS.
I don't have a problem with you asking a question about an instrument that doesn't have much to do with our instrument, but please don't try to tell us what not to joke about!

Uh..well..in all fairness, Paul, the headstock...whoops, sorry, the scroll :smug: ....does point skyward on the Baby Bass. And it predates a lot of the EUBs that are discussed here. Its somewhat muddy sound has propelled a lot of great salsa bands and recordings over the years.

Uh..well..in all fairness, Paul, the headstock...whoops, sorry, the scroll :smug: ....does point skyward on the Baby Bass. And it predates a lot of the EUBs that are discussed here. Its somewhat muddy sound has propelled a lot of great salsa bands and recordings over the years.
Whats that got to do with the double bass? And those ARE trully headstocks.
Believe it or don't, I rented one to play with "Little Stevie Wonder " in the 60's. The damn thing kept swinging around on me because they have no RIBS...I ended up playing the back as much as the front. If I tried to play anything higher than an F, I'd almost drop it.

I posted a query but so far no one has cared to supply information, just showed what chips they carry on their shoulders. On the positive side, there´s been no coke jokes, though.

Can somebody please straighten this out? Are EUBs off topic here? I can see a lot of other threads concerning such instruments, incl those that are more of the FEBGOAS kind (to use Bob Gollihur´s brilliant acronym - "fretless electric bass guitar on a stand").

If EUBs are off topic, I apologize for starting this thread. If not, I guess some people just have a bad bow hair day...

Naw, Mik, I don't think you're out of line at all.

For better or worse, the topic of Ampeg-brand and Ampeg-style EUBs is pretty specialized. Most players have never held one in their hands.

If you run a search for "Ampeg Baby Bass" in DB forums you'll find a few threads which may be on topic.

Good luck, brother.

I used to own a real Ampeg Baby Bass some years back. The Bladys copy is a great price, far cheaper than Azola and ordering from PR you don't have to deal with foreign currency or customs.

The Ampeg magnetic diaphragm pickup is an acquired taste, as it doesn't sound much like a real DB. However the sound has become the standard in a lot of Latin music from Cuba and P.R. which is why all the copies are out there (and most from Latin America).

Playability of a Baby Bass is a lot closer to a real DB than stick basses and they are easily bowed.

I sold mine because it sounded like crap through the amps I owned at the time (Fender Bassman!!). I bet through my current rigs it would actually be usable, but alas it's long gone and I can't afford to buy another (I let mine go for $700 back in the 80s).

You can still buy real Ampegs used for less than a new Azola BB, Ray Ramirez's prices are lower than Azola but more than these Colombian models.

I have never played any of these copies so can't comment about how they might sound.

a bad bow hair day... :D

I see plenty of other EUB posts here. I think my BB plays better than some other EUBs. And at least Barry Bales' Azola gets a thunderously awesome tone. Check out "Forget About It" on the AKUS Live CD!

BTW, I think Ampeg may have also made some fake ribs to widen the upper bout.

Can somebody please straighten this out? Are EUBs off topic here? I can see a lot of other threads concerning such instruments, incl those that are more of the FEBGOAS kind (to use Bob Gollihur´s brilliant acronym - "fretless electric bass guitar on a stand").
If EUBs are off topic, I apologize for starting this thread. If not, I guess some people just have a bad bow hair day...
mik, if you're refering to me when you say what you said about someone "having a bad bow hair day" , I actually have more hair on my bow than I do on top of my head.
I admit that it sounds like i'm trying to ride you on this...I apologize if I came off that way, but I really am not. You had a legit question and as I said, I have no problems with that. As Sam says, if you dig around in the Archives and the search function, you'll find a ****load of stuff on Ampegs, including one where we talked about where Ampeg got it's name to begin with.
We joke alot about my age here on TBDB, because i'm one of the senior posters @ 63. I'm old enough to remember that the name of Ampeg came from the fact that their first product was an upright bass pick-up that was a microphone mounted on the end of the part of the end-pin shaft that is the extra length of the shaft that is inside the bass, which was called the 'PEG' in those days. Hence the name Ampeg . :)
And, if you dug back far enough in the Archives of the old jazz magazine Downbeat (one of our TBDBers said he has a bunch of old Downbeats laying around where he works.. I can't remember who it was)...maybe he could find one with an advertisement for The Ampeg BabyBass with pictures and endorsements by Gary Karr with that rib/shoulder extension brace that Aleph mentions in his post, to help the bassist play in the upper positions! My man Red Mitchell, and west coast jazz bassist, Jimmy Bond. I'm not putting you on!!

Paul,

No hard feelings here. Actually, I think I know quite a lot about the Zorko and Ampeg (I even contributed a bit to the Ampeg book that came out a few years ago, although mostly on the Ampeg/Hagström connection). While researching for a book on EUBs, I have searched old jazz mags, incl Downbeat for information. Actually, Red Mitchell (who is also one of my men, I had the joy of seeing him live a few times while he lived in Sweden) endorsed the Zorko (although probably in ads only), and Jimmy Bond did ads for the Framus Triumph bass. Besides Karr, the Ampeg BB was also endorsed in ads by a number of 60s latin bassists, and by Richard Davis and Mingus!! (I doubt they did much with those basses live, at least not Mingus...).

I was merely intrigued by the fact that one Colombian town, Cali, can show at least four makers of Baby Bass replicas as well as updated designs of the same bass. And so, posted a the question.

Cheers, Mikael

Mikael....I'm glad I didn't give you any more **** than I did. I had no idea you were an expert!
Now, after you refreshing my memory, I remember that some of those endorsements were the Zorko. I do admit a certain amount of negative experiences with these things...only the Little Stevie Wonder one from a first hand, playing level.
Did you get to know Red at all in Sweden?

I had planned to interview Red Mitchell, but then he moved back to the States, and soon after his return he passed away. I wrote his obit for Bass Player magazine (to which I sometimes contribute), but I never got to know the man, which is a pity.

Mikael

Yeah, he was a piece of work. I've posted alot of Red stuff on TBDB. If you haven't done so and are interested, do a search under his name.

I found one for sale somewhere. I do not have chance to play it before. Any of you guys know anything about these things? It looks just like a Ampeg baby bass with sunburst finish. But it looks like it has a wood bridge with adjusters and maybe a K&K bass max with 3 knobs on around it, preamp maybe?

Thanks

I don't know about the Baby, but I do own a floating top Azola Bugbass, so I can vouch for the quality of construction. It's a really nice bass. The ebony fingerboard is beautiful.

I played one at Sam Ash a few years ago, it was a very nice instrument. Great sound in comparison to the originals. It has a piezo in the bridge (Bass Max) and another system at the feet. Auditioned it through a Hartke 10" kickback and it impressed me, but I would have liked to have more time with it.

I had one for a while. Mine had a maple bridge with no adjusters.
The string height is easily adjusted using an allen wrench and changing the neck angle. You can get very low or high.

The bass has a bridge wing pickup and also the traditional Baby Bass diaphragm pickup under the bridge feet. There is a tone control, a blend control, and a volume control. The volume control is also push-pull so you can turn off the battery powered preamp and get the original Baby Bass sound.

Marcus is right about the quality. The instrument feels great and the 41.5" string length makes going from DB to BB easy.

If you buy an Azola bass, you will not, I think, be dissatisfied with the after sale service the Azolas supply. Steve and Jill are great guys!

Well thanks for all the input fellas. You know how much one would be worth? This one is just like a ampeg baby bass great condition with the bass max and wood bridge with adjusters I think?

That's nice guys, I saw Red Mithell for the first time in 1977 and bought my first upright the next day. He was a great inspiration on a lot of levels. I could rant about that but as for the EUB's, after my "Inaugural gig" on thursday I went to a coffee house and saw Bob Abbott playing a David Gage Amputee Upright. The bottom 3rd is missing and though it had a great tone and presence I think it lacked strength on the low E. That's why those Acoustic/Electric Bass Guitars bug me so much. You can't get a chamber big enought to resonate those low tones. It's much easier to do it with electronics. I owned one of the early Clevingers about 1980 and it sounded like a fender bass on steroids. My question is this. What EUB's on the marketmost sound like an acoustic bass and retain the bottom?

I owned one of the early Clevingers about 1980 and it sounded like a fender bass on steroids. My question is this. What EUB's on the marketmost sound like an acoustic bass and retain the bottom?
I've not heard all of them, but my guess is that semi-acoustic models like the Eminence and the Lamario would approach the DB tone the most.
Of course the choice of strings makes a big difference too! :)

Whats that got to do with the double bass? And those ARE trully headstocks.
Believe it or don't, I rented one to play with "Little Stevie Wonder " in the 60's. The damn thing kept swinging around on me because they have no RIBS...I ended up playing the back as much as the front. If I tried to play anything higher than an F, I'd almost drop it.
Hey, I know what you mean about the bass swinging around. I have made a brace for my ampeg. I was frustrated, so I took a large stainless meat fork, opened up the middle of the fork, and attached it to the tube. I use my foot to hold the bass in place--it's just long enough and it really helps.

10-4 on Azola. Great builder, picky about everything and a savvy guy. He plays a mean blues style electric too.

I bought an Azola Eurocoustic Carved Baby Bass from Steve Azola a year and a half ago. It is fantastic!! Unfortunately I have only gotten to play it twice on gigs. I hate the fact that this beautiful bass is just sitting around. I understand from Jill Azola that the exchange rate has caused them to quit importing these. Anyone have an idea how much I should ask for it if I decide to sell it?

Ya, ask for $14.95, and I will be happy to take it off your hands. Otherwise it's out of my price range for now ;)

Hi Jazzman :bassist:

I played a vintage style baby bass for years in a jazz and blues group, but sold it when the group broke up about 5 years ago. I miss it and was thinking on getting another one, but saw the Azola Eurocoustic and it caught my eye.

Would you be interested in letting it go for $500? Let me know what you think...

Thanks,
Chas
Sarasota, FL
:hiding:

Would you be interested in letting it go for $500? Let me know $500?!?! Good luck. That thing is new for almost $4K last year, if not more.

I was gassin bad over those Eurocoustic basses. They're purdy.

3995 as I recall.

It was a shot....I knew I was low balling but once in a while you get lucky.

I'm focused now on getting a Bridge Cetus-bass anyway if I can find one outside of the factory.

I hear ya, I got an englehardt that way for 350 :D

Me too! $400, in my case, from a guy who was more into his horse ranch on Molokai than his Engelhardt.

Never hurts to try.

Me too! $400, in my case, from a guy who was more into his horse ranch on Molokai than his Engelhardt.

Never hurts to try.
Hopefully he will see the error in his way one day.

Too late, that bass is long gone.

I HAVE A FRIEND WHO IS NEEDING AN AMPEQ BABY BASS FOR HIS SON IN VENEZUELA, AND IT IS VERY DIFICULT TO FIND ONE IN THAT COUNTRY. I'M IN BOSTON NOW, AND NEXT MONTH I'LL TRAVEL, SO HE ASK ME TO FIND ONE FOR HIM, COULD YOU HELPME PLEASE?

Recently there have been quite a few posts in here asking questions about what bass to buy or what speakers to put in a cab or which bridge to stick on a Peavey bass etc.

While these are all perfectly valid questions, Michael and I are probably not the best people to ask those questions to, especially as there are specialist forums on talkbass where people who spend a lot of time researching those things will answer your questions.

The remit of this forum is to explore the 'outer limits' of bass playing - discussion about solo bass, new techniques, performance ideas, looping and processing sound, recording techniques for all of the above, and obviously specific questions about anything directly relating to the music that either of us make. Questions about the gear that we use are also more than welcome - we're likely to be able to speak reasonably authoritatively on those!

This isn't intended to halt any discussion, but you may notice your posts being moved to a more appropriate forum if you post a question here that we're really not in the best place to answer.

Thanks to everyone who contributes here - we really enjoy the discussions that ensue, and it's particularly exciting to see so many of you pursuing solo bass ideas and finding places to play and experiment. Keep it up!

Steve
www.stevelawson.net

this is the forum FAQ

There is a dedicated forum for electric upright basses ("EUBs") over on the double bass side of the Talkbass forums - you would be better off asking there.

I would think that your best bet would be to contact as many music shops as you can in Boston and NYC - plenty of musicians in Boston (Berklee) and the latin/jazz scene in NYC - something suitable might turn up.

Azola also produce a number of EUBs similar to the old Baby Bass.

Check out Ebay. I've seen them there, occasionally...

Ray Ramirez makes some fine Baby Basses - http://www.rayramirezbasses.com

Actually, there are guys in Venezuela building Baby Bass replicas. I have no contact information, but one of them is called Julito, in Caracas, and sometimes offers his basses on sites such as Deremate or Mercadolibre.

There are also some Baby Bass builders in Colombia, check out http://www.babybasssendel.com, for instance. Or Blady http://www.valgame.com/html2/blad.htm

I have no idea what they´re like quality wise, though.

Mikael

Mikael, you ARE the international EUB man of mystery! Great info. :)

If you go to http://www.deremate.com.co (the Colombian auction site, search for "baby bass"), Mauro Ortega offers his MOG Baby Basses at a stunning USD 600. I can´t say anything about the quality, though.

If you should find out more about that Julito guy in Caracas, do let me know!

Mikael

Hi,
I bought a Colombian Baby Bass about 4 months ago and I have noticed that the instrument body is warping in the bridge area. I would like to know if somebody can repair it in U.S. since shipping the instrument to Cali Colombia cost me about $550 between paying the shipping for returning the instrument and the shipping for receiving it back. Also the sound dont have the punch of my friend's Ampeg baby bass. any help?

Depending on where you´re located, of course, but Steve Azola in California is The Man and 2nd to none when it comes to baby basses. Reportedly, David Gage has some experience of them, too.

What brand is your bass? Sendel, Simet, MOG, Blady?

Mikael

I play salsa pretty much full time in Washington, and am surprised how rare a real Baby Bass is, even in New York. They only made them for a few years, and people who use them for latin music are highly unlikely to sell them.

If you have full price, Steve Azola's shop is the best option for making sure you get what you want. Otherwise, Ray Ramirez's shop has the best reputation for the non-Ampeg thing. They get the real sound of latin music.

I have heard bassists come back from Central/South America with cheap Baby Bass copies, and the sound is usually OK, but it is not typically anywhere the quality you will get from Steve Azola.

E-Bay is pretty much the only answer.

Just spotted this one:

http://www.mercadolibre.com.ve/jm/item?site=MLV&id=3770408

Can´t say anything about the quality of the instrument.

Mikael

I have an azola made ampeg baby bass that I play old school blues on. It has the double pick-up system and I keep the diaphram p/u mostly rolled off. Given this information does anyone have any thoughts on how this might sound with weed wackers. $20.00 for the strings is cheep, but I dont want to change strings for the fun of it.
Thank you in advance for your replys
fat paul.

Thump City, I would think. I haven't played the Azola Baby, but I've played the originals, and I've played weed whackers on regular DBs. I think the combination would be very dark, to say the least.

personally, i love the weed whacker sound. i have built a couple of basses and used those for strings, b/c of price and there is very little tension (you can use a soft pine 2X4 for the neck and it won't bow).

i'm sure others will disagree, but i think they sound very much like an upright, especially when played at higher rock/funk type volumes. well, at the very least they sound way cooler than a bg. to each his own, but they are definitely cheap enough to try, and you could probably get a lifetime supply for $20 if you get them from the hardware store.

IMO you should change strings for the fun of it; your ears alone are the only ones you can trust, and you'll never know unless you do it...

Has anyone had any expiriences flying with their Ampeg Baby Bass? Is is too big to carry on, and if so, what's the best way to protect it? Can it be checked at the gate? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Flying a Baby Bass? No experience here, but I'd recommend eye protection at minimum. Probably a warm jacket as well....

I would guess that carry-on would be mostly out, although I've hear mention of some airlines that will deal that way. It'll likely take a whole seat, so traveling the Redeye and a few phone calls ahead of time might get it on that way without an extra ticket. Is there a flight case for those?

http://azola.com/sys-tmpl/babybassflightcase/

These seem to be getting more rare, so I thought I'd mention one I saw that's for sale. It's over at Wilson Violins in Birmingham, MI, where it's on consignment for a local player. It's been there for a while, and I asked Rob what it was going for, and he said "Any reasonable offer".

I've heard that these are treasured in stock configuration by Latin players, but I've also seen a fair number of these modded, the original aluminum bridge and magnetic pickup replaced with a standard wooden bridge and a more modern pickup.

I phoned yesterday and they are asking $3000 US dollars...

Not exactly a bargain considering there are several on various bass websites for sale in the $ 1400 - 2500 range.

Missed one last year by an hr, it went for $800 Canadian at a shop in Toronto....

My buddy has one I've used on occassion, sounds real good through my GK amp, only complaint is keeping it in tune on festival stages outside.

Their cool to look at though they weight a friggin ton !

The lowest I've seen them go is $1300. Not a bad deal since it was coming from a dealer who had a good reputation in the vintage guitar world. He wouldn't ship though. I just got one a few weeks ago and I'm loving it, but, yeah $3000 is way over the mark afaic. They do have some weight to them, but not a whole lot more than a double. The sound is really percussive, not much sustain, perfect for latin music. But through an Ampeg B-15, it sounds good for funk and maybe even a few jazz gigs, if absoulutly neccesary. After much thought, I decided on the Baby Bass over some newer models since it will retain it's value, and if I ever decide to sell, I may make a profit.

I should pass that along. Last time I asked Rob about it, he said "any reasonable offer accepted" or words to that effect. It's not his and it's been there a long time. I suspect the owner might entertain a much lower offer.

I remember a friend had one in High School, when they were fairly new, I think. I've seen a lot of modified ones, with wooden bridges fit and different pickups.

I bought a very nice ABB today that had two gut strings on the G and D strings and Redtops on the A and E. Best I can tell, it was last played by the original owner around 1990. When I got home tonight after my regular gig I had time to give a serious test drive and found it to be very percussive and I dig the mag coil pickup sound. But I was wondering what other ABB players have for strings on their basses. Any comment's or suggestions you may have will be appreciated.

Steve and Jill Azola don't live farway so I plan a trip up to their "Rancho" I hope they can find some time so that Steve can give it a "once over" before next weeks latin gig.

When I owned an Ampeg BB, my favorite strings on it were Pirastro Pizzicato wound guts. I find them too bright and sustaining on a double bass, but those qualities worked well for me on the BB.
Some players also have good results with LaBella black nylon tape wound baby bass strings.
Slight changes in string height will also have somewhat of an effect on the sound.

I have a late '60s one. I like mine a lot. They get dissed around here quite a bit. They aren't well respected for anything else but Latin styles where they rule the roost. Salsa music is at it's best with that sound holding up the Tumbao.

I have tried many different strings on mine including the black tape wound Labella strings, all the gages of spirocores, and a bunch of varied Pirastro and Corelli strings. Mine had old gut strings on it when I got it. They sounded fantastic but don't hold tune very well and the wound strings were coming apart.

The most common string Latin players use on it are the Thomastic Spirocore Solo gage set. They have a great feel, they make up for what the bass lacks in note length and brightness and last forever. For me they are the gold standard on the Baby Bass.

I liked Spirocore Solos and Velvet 360's on mine the best. Right now it has the Velvet 360's on it. They sound great. I think the super low tension strings sound better and feel better overall on that bass. Low tension strings like those have a focus in the low end that blooms well and sounds fat across the whole bass, especially in the middle register around the neck joint where the Tumbao seems to sound best.

Velvets 360s are a weird string and although I like them the best so far I'm always afraid they are going to break any minute. They are made with that synthetic core like a Dominant that doesn't like being wound around the key and the afterlength is almost touching the bridge. They don't fit very well. I got them used and so they were cheap. At $250 a set new I don't think I'd feel very good if I broke them. Try them at your own peril.

I've got the set of Baby Bass Black Tapes in a drawer if you want to work something out for them. They weren't on there very long as I preferred the Spirocore Solos over them. They sounded very similar but had much higher tension. Everyone like something different though. It may be just yer cuppa.

I roll the treble tone all the way down and have the volume all the way up. Those controls never move from there.
I use a second pickup, a bassmax clipped right to the metal bridge with an old bp100 bridge clip. Works nice mixed in with the original. Gives it a bit of top and a bit more note length. I use a Raven Labs MB1 to mix them both. When I was doing latin music on it I was just using the original pickup with the spirocore solos into whatever amp I had and it was perfect.

I have an Azola baby bass bridge that I've used on there from time to time. It doesn't sound as good on the salsa stuff as the original equipment bridge but with the Bass Max and the Azola bridge I can get a very excellent electric upright sound from the bass.

I put an alan wrench in a hole just above the endpin tightening screw to keep the thing from swiveling to much and to keep it from sinking down when I play. Both of those are a common theme with that bass. I most often have it sitting in a Hamilton style stand and play it while it's in the stand holding itself up. The angle's aren't the same as playing a double bass but it gets rid of the swiveling problem altogether.

The tension adjustment on the tailpiece does interesting stuff. Somewhere on the net it a copy of the original owners manual. Read that for details. The neck adjustment on the back is crucial for getting a good sound. I usually lower the strings toward the neck until they just start to buzz in the middle register and then increase the string height from there just enough to make the buzz go away.

I had Nick Lloyd in Cincinnatti recut the fingerboard so it plays like butter and sounds even all up and down the neck. That makes a huge difference.

Have fun. Love em or leave em there's nothing like a Baby Bass.

Edit: Oh yea and one other thing. Regular DB tecnique doesn't work so good on that bass. Turn it up real loud and play super light like a regular electric bass and it works better. Otherwise it gets a nasty thonk that really sucks.

Dr. Thomastik Spirocore or Superflexible solo gauge strings. Most everybody I know .... including myself, love these strings. But my friend Sal Cuevas, loves Ned Steinberger's NS roundwound strings on his Zorko baby bass.

Thanks for all your comments and suggestions. I had a extra set of Spirocores and put them on the ABB, much better than the guts! I think the amp and cabinet will be critical to the overall sound as well, and Uncle Toad is "right on" about the attack, you don't play these like a double bass!

EXPLANATION
hi...
I am ANDRES ORTEGA (M.O.G.COLOMBIAN BABY BASSES )
THIS PROBLEM NOT HAPPEN WITH MY BASSES ....IS A LUTHIER BUT ,NOT IS M.O.G. BASSES ....
THE PROBLEM IS : THE ALUMINIUM PIPE USED IN THE BODY .
OTHER LUTHIERS USE 25- 30 CMS ONLY !!!(THE BODY SIZE :LARGE ,87 CMS !...
IN REPLACE ,THEY USE: 25 CMS ALUMINIUM P.+A GALVANIZED WATER PIPE ...:S
THIS IS TRUE ....
PD. IN THE PAST ,THEY BUY TO ME THE PICK-UPS AND CHORDS ...THE SOUNDS ARE GREAT ! ..... IN THE PAST .
PD2 :
MY SELLS ARE ONLY BY INTERNET .I NOT PERSECUTE BASSISTS !

Guys,

I'm primarily an electric bassist. I own an Ibanez BTB 405QM and an Ibanez SR506. I love my B string...but...I can make do with 4.

I primarily play in Latin/salsa circles, and, of course, the old heads are all in love with the Ampeg Baby bass sound.

Since I have two electric basses, I was wondering if it made sense to find an Azola or Ampeg baby bass at an affordable price (i'm a poor musician) and where could I find good used prices for them, OR, retrofit one of my electrics to sound like the baby bass.

I've been playing around with my BTB and taking off treble, and putting up the mid and bass up, plus playing a little higher on the fretboard, and I'm approximating the "ping, bummm" sound of the baby bass in Latin music. I have roundwounds on them right now.

What else cand I do to either make my BTB sound more baby bass, or where can I find ampeg or azola baby bass at less than $1,000 (I know, I'm asking a lot...but I can't throw down $1,000 right now).:D

That's not enough money for a Baby Bass. Your about halfway there.

There is no substitute for the sound of the Baby Bass in that context. It also makes you play differently because of what it is, how it makes you play, and how it sounds.

Having said that I saw Ismael Miranda last year. His bassist used a Fender Jazz and played it headstock up sitting. He was amazing and sounded fine out front. When you are used to making that sound and playing in those styles perhaps it doesn't matter what you use.

As you know, there are alternatives to an original Ampeg bass. There's a thread a little down the page from this one, 'Colombian Baby Basses,' in which mikjans reeled off a list of replica builders. Perhaps he and others on this board might have experience of them.

The bassist in my salsa group (I'm actually the pianist most of the time, not the bassist!) is in the market for an EUB at the moment, and is considering the Ergo because of it's value for money and because it preserves something of the physical approach of the double bass, which of course is shared with the baby bass.

Anyway, I thought I'd respond to your thread because I play salsa on the same bass as you, the SR506, when I'm not able to take my DB out. I like to palm mute at the bridge and play with my thumb. The lower range of the B string can be fantastic if you use it sparingly, in the same way as one might hit the open E on the double bass as an accent.

As an aside, and in the same vein as UnkieToad ( ;) )I did a record a couple of years ago with Dorance Lorza (Cafe Sexteto etc.) on which he played bass, half on his Ampeg BB and half on an old telecaster bass that happened to be in the studio. Mixed and mastered, it wasn't glaringly obvious which bass was being played. You don't mention whether you play double bass at all, but if you are able to bear in mind the physical 'limitations' (tell that to Brian Bromberg) of the doghouse when you're playing on the slab, it won't sound so slabby. :)

Good luck with the search!

I've been playing around with my BTB and taking off treble, and putting up the mid and bass up, plus playing a little higher on the fretboard, and I'm approximating the "ping, bummm" sound of the baby bass in Latin music. I have roundwounds on them right now.

What else cand I do to either make my BTB sound more baby bass, or where can I find ampeg or azola baby bass at less than $1,000 (I know, I'm asking a lot...but I can't throw down $1,000 right now).:D
You should probably switch to flatwounds, like black nylon tapewounds.
You could also try to put a piece of foam or rubber under the strings, near the bridge, to mute the strings. This could make it unnecessary to change drastically your plucking technique.

You should probably switch to flatwounds, like black nylon tapewounds.
You could also try to put a piece of foam or rubber under the strings, near the bridge, to mute the strings. This could make it unnecessary to change drastically your plucking technique.
+1
Increasing your string height will also give you a more percussive sound.

thanks for the advice...

No, I don't play upright...i'm actually a drummer by training, and later percussionist in all latin percussion instruments. I took up electric bass to supplement as a bassist because there weren't much latin bass players in the area (Western MA). At first I wasn't into it, but in the last year and half, I pick up the instrument for an hour or more every day and I've gotten pretty good on it. Thought it might be the right time to get a baby bass...but in reality, if I can do the job with an electric, I'd be happier saving my money. The bass player of Jimmy Bosch plays electric and Jose Gazmey of PR plays a Fender Jazz...plus Bobby Valentin also plays electric, and they all get a quite close sound of a baby bass.

I'll try the flatwound and foam ideas...see if I can make it sound good. I'll make my BTB405QM my "baby bass", and keep the SR506 for gigs where I need to have a more modern "timba" or "DLG" "growling" salsa sound.

If I really feel the need...I might just buy a fretless Fender Jazz of Ebay (prices are RIDICULOUSLY cheap) and set it up as my "baby". Might be good for me to finally learn how to play a fretless more accurately...

I know Mauricio Ortega visits this forum often and I appreciate his helpful advice and advertisements about his basses. I was drawn to him by the substantially cheaper price of his Ampeg replicas.

I'd like to know from others about MOG Baby basses. Anyone played them? How do they compare, professionally speaking?

I don't wish to start a war of reviews between Mauricio and others who may think the bass needs some work on some aspects. I'm just a potential buyer trying to do the rounds and research before I commit to buying from Azola, Ray Ramirez, Sendel, or MOG. And price IS an issue...I'm a poor player.

Reviews of the MOG traditional baby basses (and others) are welcome here, please.

anyone? I talked to a latin bass player about this, and he mentioned that the MOG basses had some sort of pickup issue that didn't make them sound too good. This came from a gigging salsa player who plays Sendel basses. He's the THIRD bassist here in the Western MA area who plays Sendel basses, and they're almost exclusively recommending those.

Any other thoughts on MOG, though? I'd like to get a thorough amount of information before picking one of the Colombian companies.

Don't know anything about MOG. You have links or something?

I use a '67 Baby Bass. Nothing like it really. The Azola reissue comes close, I hear that Ray Ramirez's work does too.

Nothing out there under $2000 US that I've heard of does that sound right.

I've seen two different bass players playing Sendels...they sound great. Perfect for Latin music.

One of them had the traditional Baby bass, and the other had Sendel's "mini Baby normal", which is a smaller version of the Baby bass. But, the sound he got out of it was indistinguishable from the regular size...and more compact, lighter, and with a more playable shorter neck.

MOG, I've heard, sells basses cheaper than Sendels, but so far, the only review I've heard of them is from one of the owners of the Sendels. He remarked that they had weaker sound as a result of a pickup problem. Of course, I don't wish to fuel wrongful information and harm Mauricio Ortega's business, which is why I really want reliable information from people who own MOGs. I just want to do my research right.

But, so far, what I've seen of Sendel replicas look good.

so...after misfiring this into the acoustic DB forum...i just picked up the Merchant Vertical pictured below (this is after a little cleaning and such, as it was fairly gunked up) for what i think is a fairly good deal.

however looking at the merchant page, it looks like the pickup config is different from the current crop of MV basses (bridge pickups are in there as well). anyone familiar with these think they can take a look and maybe give me a guess at its age? i suppose i could email Merchant's shop, but i hate to bother him...plus this way i get to show it off a bit ;P

http://downneck.net/merchant_vertical.jpg

Not sure about the exact pickup config especially since many of those basses are built to order but you just managed to pick up my favorite eub and I am JEALOUS. I have been having physical problems moving my DB and would love to have one of those. Usually there is both a mag and some sort of piezo pickup but the exact configuration may have changed at times.
Enjoy,
S

BTW if you ever are considering parting with that Bass, please let me know.

actually, considering what i paid for it...i don't think i ever will. i paid a lot less than i've ever seen one of these go for (with gig bag and flight case) and so i'm stuck in a quandry. i wouldn't feel right charging market value for it and i couldn't let it go at the price i paid.

plus...i love this thing! :P

altho you have my word, if i ever do part with it...you'll get a PM first :)

Mauricio (the maker of Mog Baby Basses) sent me a sound clip...the bass sounded pretty good...

Anyone else had any experience with MOG basses?

By the way, the link to their site.

http://www.ababymog.galeon.com/index.html

Guys,

I'm well acquainted with the Ampeg Baby Bass, as I come mostly from the Latin music edge of things. I personally like the sound of the Ampeg Baby Bass, but I understand how others have criticized its sometimes short, decaying, percussive sound (compared to DBs).

Is there anything that can be done if someone owns a passive, Ampeg Baby Bass or a replica? I'm a total newbie when it comes to pedals or other electronic devices...but is there anything that could help the sustain of an ampeg?

It seems like you could replace or augment the bridge with a piezo bridge and an outboard buffer/mixer. That would probably work much better than trying to use a compressor/sustainer pedal. For a suitable buffer, check the "commercial marketplace" page for a DIY project in a mints tin.

I would also try different strings, I currently use thomastik superflexible with the Solo gauge on my ampeg reissue by Azola. and it gives it a nice sustain.

I have used my '67 Baby Bass in a variety of situations. I like it best with Spirocore Solo strings. I often run it with a Bartolini NTBT electric bass preamp. When I do I usually have the passive onboard tone knob all the way off, the volume all the way up and set the preamp with maximum bass and a modicum of treble boost. This is a great sound with tons of sustain with the stock pickup.

I also have an Azola Wood bridge and Bass Max pickup that I use on occasion for a more modern sound. I have mixed both of those sources through the Raven Labs MPBII to great effect.

The best tones have come from plugging the stock pickup (tone rolled all the way off, volume all the way up) into the front of my Walter Woods amp and into a Euphonic Audio VL 208 or 210 or into my vintage SVT and 810.

The latter will rattle your teeth. If you use that rig be sure to have sired all your children first. You may be unable afterward.

If you own an original Ampeg, try a wooden bridge and a set of NS (Ned Steinberger) roundwound bass strings. I've been using these on my Ampeg & Zorko basses w/ great results. I don't think you'll need a preamp. Hope this helps.

Easy,
RR
www.myspace.com/rrbass

I have used my '67 Baby Bass in a variety of situations. I like it best with Spirocore Solo strings. I often run it with a Bartolini NTBT electric bass preamp. When I do I usually have the passive onboard tone knob all the way off, the volume all the way up and set the preamp with maximum bass and a modicum of treble boost. This is a great sound with tons of sustain with the stock pickup.

I also have an Azola Wood bridge and Bass Max pickup that I use on occasion for a more modern sound. I have mixed both of those sources through the Raven Labs MPBII to great effect.

The best tones have come from plugging the stock pickup (tone rolled all the way off, volume all the way up) into the front of my Walter Woods amp and into a Euphonic Audio VL 208 or 210 or into my vintage SVT and 810.

The latter will rattle your teeth. If you use that rig be sure to have sired all your children first. You may be unable afterward.

That's funny...hahaha...I'll make sure to do all my "banging out" before hand :)

I'll look into the Bartolini Pre-Amp and the wooden bridge options. I figured wooden bridges would approximate a DB more and improve the sound, and I'm feeling the Pre-Amp will let me shape the sound even more than straight from the bass to the amp. In reality, the sound of an Ampeg is not THAT bad in decay. No DB ever will approximate an electric bass on decay/sustain, but, the high end stuff on the D and G string decay really quick...that's really the issue. Playing on the A and E strings, decay is pretty much where I like it. Fat and long enough. Long enough, at least, to do jazz applications with it. I know a lot of people swear on the altar of real DBs and think Baby basses can't cut it in jazz settings...but I was just watching Calle 54 (latin jazz documentary), the segment with Tito Puente, and bassist Joe Santiago was playing awesome walking bass lines on an Ampeg Baby Bass. Sounded just fine to me.

Thanks for the advice guys!

In reality, the sound of an Ampeg is not THAT bad in decay. No DB ever will approximate an electric bass on decay/sustain, but, the high end stuff on the D and G string decay really quick...that's really the issue. Playing on the A and E strings, decay is pretty much where I like it.
I had an original BB about 10 years ago, and replaced the stock aluminum bridge with a wooden one.
I also removed the magnetic pickup and replaced the laminated metal plates under the bridge with solid stainless steel.
And I put an Underwood pickup on the custom bridge. (an Azola bridge is ok too if you can get one, plus a Bass Max, like suggested)
The issue is indeed with the top strings sustain.
That's where the instrument shows its flexibility, which damps these higher harmonics.
Putting brighter strings on top can help too.
Like Pirastro Flatchromes for examples. (the new ones, not the Originals)

What, if any, modifications can be done on an Ampeg Baby Bass or a replica to make it sound more like a double-bass?

So far, I've read about purchasing a wood bridge and special pickup from Azola's shop that is better than the standard magnetic diaphragm pickup and metal bridge that is common to baby basses.

What else would people recommend...and why is the new pickup and wood bridge better for a baby bass' tone?

Thanks friends!

I had an original BB several years ago.
I replaced the metal bridge with a custom maple one, and used an Underwood pickup.
I also replaced the laminated washers under the bridge feet with custom solid stainless steel ones.
That way, the tone had much more clarity and sustain.
The original setup gives a very percussive thud-like tone.
Nothing wrong with that.
Many salsa players want that tone.
Depends on what you're looking for.

However, if you want a modern tone, may I suggest getting a modern EUB instead?
The BB is quite fragile with its uvex body.

If you decide to modify your BB, keep the original pieces!

Hope this helps.

The reason I've been considering a Baby Bass replica is

1) because I figure that, in real terms, most of the music I play is either salsa, latin-jazz, or latin-american in some way (tangos, cumbias, venezuela, peruvian music,etc)

2) Because if I was going to go for a modern EUB, I hate those that look like cricket sticks...and the only ones I'd love buying are way too expensive for me (Azola Bugbass II or more favorably, a BSX Allegro solid body). An Ampeg replica is more affordable for me, has a nice double-bass-like shape, and, i'll probably be playing latin music with it anyway. Replicas from Colombia (from Sendel, I don't trust the other Colombian makers) are, at most $1200 with shipping from colombia included...that beats the $2000.00 and above of Azola and BSX.

I also own an Ibanez BTB 405 with LaBella Deep Talkin tapewounds, and an Ibanez SR506 with Elixir roundwounds...so if I really need to get a jazz sound or some other sound that the Ampeg can't do, I'll either take the Ibanez BTB with its deep tapewounds and make it sound like a Fender Jazz, or if I need rock slap, I'll take the SR506.

What, if any, modifications can be done on an Ampeg Baby Bass or a replica to make it sound more like a double-bass?

So far, I've read about purchasing a wood bridge and special pickup from Azola's shop that is better than the standard magnetic diaphragm pickup and metal bridge that is common to baby basses.

What else would people recommend...and why is the new pickup and wood bridge better for a baby bass' tone?

Thanks friends!

If you don't already have a Baby Bass and are looking for a more authentic tone don't buy one. Get an EUB that is more authentic from the start. There are many.

If you already have a Baby Bass the Azola wood bridge and a Bass Max pickup would help move you towards a more usual EUB tone. It defeats the Baby Bass Latin tone however. You can't have both. The Wood bridge is not an "improvement" it is just different.

If you want a Salsa bass get a Baby Bass and leave it alone. If you want an EUB there are many far better ones on the market and the Baby Bass at it's best will never sound close.

Uncletoad,

I very much appreciate your suggestions. It has made me rethink the issue. I wanted a bass that is versatile enough to do salsa style gigs, but can also work for jazz styles. I'm figuring that I'd be better off "emulating" a salsa sound through a EUB that is more closer to a double bass, than trying it the other way.:smug:

The only problem is that there's nothing very affordable in the EUB range that doesn't look like a stick...and even those guys are like $1200 or more.:rollno:

I wish I could find an affordable BSX Allegro or Azola BugBass II...that would make my day.:hmm:

BSX does run some specials now and then, I got a deep discount on my Allegro (although it was still not cheap). When he gets back from NAMM, ask Dino if he'll have any special pricing deals coming up.

My mileage varied greatly on this. Though the feeling about changing to a wooden bridge is almost universal, and I highly respect all that Azola does toward this, for me I got MORE thud/less sustain when I replaced my stock Al bridge w/ a wooden one. I changed back and sold the wood. I'm sure neck angle, bridge location, etc. have a lot to do w/ it, but my BB has pretty good sustain.

Good URB tone is another story. I've had the best luck so far with a Fishman BP-100 clipped onto two aluminum strips cut to fit and sandwiched onto the bridge, but sometime I'll get back to trying to do better by other means.

Hey, I just thought of this: Maybe the extra mass of the aluminum plates on my bridge improves sustain.

Anywho, my BB is a lifetime project, though someday I may just move on since I have other basses for most every occasion.:p

i just purchased a 1962 ampeg baby bass for use with my touring latin/salsa band, any suggestions for hard cases/flight cases?
im looking for an affordable alternative to the azola bug bass flightcase.
thanks

I have a flight case for my baby bass. It is big and weighs about as much as the bass. It was custom made locally and has held up well. A typical anvil style case.

I do not think that I wll be using this case anymore. Let me know if you are interested.

i am interested as a matter of fact. im kinda strapped for cash right now (my amp ot stolen yesterday) but possibly later this month... send me pics if possible, and what you might want for that to chemavan@hotmail.com. thanks

:cool:
Check Azola Basses.
They make the baby bass now.
May have case.

their flight cases run $999, before shipping. my baby bass cost me $1200, im looking for a cheaper alternative...

their flight cases run $999, before shipping. my baby bass cost me $1200, im looking for a cheaper alternative...

ouch.. and I thought $575 for the NS flight case was a lot.

their flight cases run $999, before shipping. my baby bass cost me $1200, im looking for a cheaper alternative...Your bass may have cost you $1200 but you got lucky. If it was damaged or stolen the cost to replace a '60's Baby Bass is over $2000 these days.

10 years ago they were half that. By the end of this decade I suspect they will surpass the $4000 mark. They are appreciating rapidly and worth whatever it costs for protection. They didn't make near enough of those things and many bite the dust annually.

The Azola version of this bass is excellent but not the same as the original. I had one and sold it to keep my original.

The road rule of thumb is this.

If you travel you must insure your stuff for replacement value and take whatever cartage measures are required to protect it in the process.

If you can't afford to protect it you can't afford to take it.

Having said that I saw Ismael Miranda last year. His bassist used a Fender Jazz and played it headstock up sitting. He was amazing and sounded fine out front. When you are used to making that sound and playing in those styles perhaps it doesn't matter what you use.

Was he African American?
I believe his name is John Henry Robinson and he swings hard on that fender

Was he African American?
I believe his name is John Henry Robinson and he swings hard on that fenderProbably. That was almost 2 years ago I think.

I just got a Ray Ramirez travel mate a couple of months back. It has the magnetic diaphragm pickup of a Baby Bass on a body half the size. The sound is perfect. Mind you, it is around 1800.oo.

It was is easier for me to find the extra 1800 bucks than it was to get an authentic Baby Bass sound from other basses.

Since I got it I haven't touched my Azola Baby Bass.

An old Ampeg Baby Bass is the EUB to have if you´re concerned with image as well as sound. Or an Azola or Ramirez replica, which is most likely a better sounding and sturdier instrument, although still having the "right" vintage look.

South America is full of Baby Bass makers, of which many reach the US and Europe. Many of them sell direct to customer. I have not tried any of these so I can´t vouch for the quality.

The following offer fiberglass Baby Basses of the classic design as well as modifications of the old design. There seems to be more or less a cottage industry of Baby Bass makers in South America. There´s also a maker or two of pickups in the old diaphragm design.

Azola (US) www.azola.com
Ray Ramirez (Puerto Rico) www.RayRamirezBasses.com
Cruzound (Puerto Rico) www.geocities.com/cruzound
Sendel (Colombia) www.babybasssendel.com
M.O.G. (formerly known as Simet) (Colombia) www.ababymog.galeon.com
Guitarras Legendario (Cuba) www.guitarraslegendario.com (no EUBs shown on website)
Juber Ludeña (Peru) juber_lude@yahoo.com
Julito (Venezuela) no contact info
Fagundez (Venezuela) no contact info
Claudio Venegas Marin (Chile) no contact info
Freddy Chamorro (Chile) frechar1948@hotmail.com
Carlos Carbajal (Mexico) www.carloscarbajalguitars.cjb.net

Carbajal makes a diaphragm type pickup where you can change between plastic, wooden and metal diaphragms.

But, as Jaco said, "it´s all in the hands, man". A set of thuddy strings (gut, nylon, plastic), the right plucking technique (not so close to the bridge) and some EQ tweaking can take you a long way.

Mikael

Hey guys, I just came into ownership of an Ampeg Baby Bass. I'm pretty excited, but it needs a little bit of work. I was wondering if anyone knows of anyone in the greater Chicago/St. Louis/Indianapolis area that might work on these (I'm in central Illinois). Thanks for any help. Oh, I also need a case for it if anyone knows where I can come across one. Thanks!

For cases, bags, and any other Baby Bass accessories or parts,
your best bet is Azola Basses http://azola.com. Steve and Jill will go out of their way to help you even if you are not their customer. They made the reissue basses for Ampeg and are an invaluable resource.

I haven't checked it for updates lately, but there is an Unofficial Ampeg site out there that had some good info/tips on Baby Basses, you'll find it under the EUB section of my Double Bass Links Page (http://www.gollihur.com/kkbass/basslink.html)

For cases, bags, and any other Baby Bass accessories or parts,
your best bet is Azola Basses http://azola.com. Steve and Jill will go out of their way to help you even if you are not their customer. They made the reissue basses for Ampeg and are an invaluable resource.

+1 on this advice.

jeff

Great, guys. Thanks. This is definitely a start.

Hey everyone. Curiosity is starting to get the best of me. If any of you in the Chicago area have a baby bass (I'm not brand specific) or know someone who has a baby bass that would be gracious enough to let me try it out, please drop me a pm or email me at wxjeremyATyahooDOTcom. I play in a latin band and the more I hear a baby bass the more I want to try one out. There are a few latin clubs I'm going to check out where there are live bands. I'm sure there has to be someone in Chicago that plays a baby bass.

I thought I saw a couple at The Chicago Music Exchange(Lincoln Ave, I believe). They were in one of the back rooms of the acoustic dept.

huh oh, I know where I'm spending my saturday afternoon now!!

I play in mostly Latin bands. I use a Palatino VE-500. I've gotten compliments on my bass' sounds (after modifying it with the modifications listed on the Palatino Thread on this forum). I can get a boomy, baby-bass-like sound, or i can get a wood upright sound for jazz. The original baby bass is not that versatile in sound. It can only do the boomy-pingy sound that is preferred for Latin bands.

Trust me...I play with some of the preeminent Latin bands in MA...not a single player has complained about my sound.

And best of all, a Palatino with some modifications will still be cheaper than even the cheapest Colombian replicas (let alone a real Ampeg Baby Bass).

Just a suggestion. Enjoy playing Latin music!

I know there are many ways of getting a good usable sound for Latin/Salsa etc. DB, EB and EUB's all have tones that can be modified to approximate the Baby Bass.

However, I have found that the Baby Bass in its original form has a bounce, a heft and an air to it that I can't dupilicate on any other instrument.

When called for Latin gigs I prefer to use the Baby over anything else and when I do everyone loves it. It is the perfect sound and feel and look for the gig.

If you can afford to have multiple instruments or if Latin is your only Gig I see no reason to approximate the tone with a lesser expensive instrument.

Otoh if you have to do a bunch of stuff with the one instrument the Baby is a one trick pony and sucks at about everything else.

Nothing else does the trick like that though.

Having said that when buying an original be sure it has the original bridge and that both sides of the pickup are working properly and the threads are not stripped on the bracket inside that holds the two coils. You can do that by plugging in the bass and by screwing the set screws in and out to be sure the threads work and the volume of the strings go up and down.

Also be sure the sides aren't split or if they are that they've been properly repaired. The Baby Bass explodes and then is worthless. The closer to original condition you can get the better. If the fingerboard has been worked be sure it appears to have been done by a DB luthier rather than a guitar guy. It should play like a DB.

Ask if you have more questions.

Enjoy!

However, I have found that the Baby Bass in its original form has a bounce, a heft and an air to it that I can't dupilicate on any other instrument.


My thoughts exactly toad. I play in a strictly latin band. I have an EUB right now that with some easy mods (foam under string and EQ tweaks) can get a sound DAMN close to a baby bass. But like you said, a real baby bass has a certain quality to it that makes it unique.

Hey, Uncle:

On your Ampeg Baby Bass, did you ever move on from the Spiro Solos tuned down? That's what I've had on for years, playing Salsa.

But now I'd like to try the bass in Western Swing and C&W, so was thinking of a new set or something different. Don't want too much sustain, though, so maybe the 15 year old set is ok. Ever try one of your old Gamut G&D's on the Ampeg?

And did you ever move on to the Azola wood bridge and wing-type pickup?

Thanks.....Lyle

Hey, Uncle:

On your Ampeg Baby Bass, did you ever move on from the Spiro Solos tuned down? That's what I've had on for years, playing Salsa.

But now I'd like to try the bass in Western Swing and C&W, so was thinking of a new set or something different. Don't want too much sustain, though, so maybe the 15 year old set is ok. Ever try one of your old Gamut G&D's on the Ampeg?

And did you ever move on to the Azola wood bridge and wing-type pickup?

Thanks.....LyleI tried that bridge and pickup. Sounded good. I still have it. I felt like if I wanted that sound I'd just use my Regular DB. I just use it for the occasional Latin gig. The DB gets all my country/swing stuff.

The bass still wears Spiro solos, in fact the same set from 2004. It came with a set of good gut tops on it that I still have. I may try them again. I've not tried Gamuts on it yet.

I got one for sale right now. If you wanna check it out, pm me.

Folks,

What is the best string set-up (SOLO or Orquestra) for SALSA playing with a Baby Bass? Also, any particular brand or type preferred for Baby Basses?

Thnx

:help:

Are you using an original Baby Bass, or what EUB are you using?

A lot of Baby Bass players seem to prefer the solo Spiros. (tuned at orchestra pitch)

Are you using an original Baby Bass, or what EUB are you using?

Just got a Colombian-made SENDEL BB; unknown brand of metal strings, but they look generic. Don't know what tuning they're made for, but right now I got them tuned in the E-A-D-G mode. I'm a begginer on the BB; any help/advice is appreciated.

A lot of Baby Bass players seem to prefer the Solo Spirocores. (tuned at orchestra pitch)
That's what mine wears.

My BugBass has used light Helicore Hybrids for a few years and they sound nice and are easy to play. I think their string-to-string balance and tone is more similar than the Spiro weichs I used on it for awhile.

That's what mine wears.

Thnx guys...so far I'm leaning towards the Spirocore solos. Has anyone tried Thomastik Superflexes? They seem to be popular too for BB.

Just picked up a late '60's Baby Bass with the original gut strings still on it. I think I want to switch to steel but I'm not sure what my choices are. Any help would be appreciated.

The solo Spirocores are quite popular with these instruments.
Do a search in this (EUB) forum and you'll find previous threads about this.

Just picked up a late '60's Baby Bass with the original gut strings still on it. I think I want to switch to steel but I'm not sure what my choices are. Any help would be appreciated.Save the gut somewhere, you may want to go back to it.

Spirocore Solos are what most salsa players use. You need to readjust the bass for them.

Baby Bass Manual page 1 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg1.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 2 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg2.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 3 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg3.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 4 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg4.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 5 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg5.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 6
(http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg6.html)

Maybe this belongs under the "Setups & Repair" forum, but I though I'd try here first. Moderator: feel free to move it.

I want to try adjusting the neck on my Ampeg Baby Bass. There is the "tilt" adjustment screw in the back of the bass, and the truss rod adjustment (which I'm guessing mostly effects the lower half of the fingerboard). Of course there'"scoop", bridge height, and tailpiece adjustments, but I was going to ignore them for now.

My plan was to measure string height at the end of the fingerboard, the mid point (which is where the fingerboard joins the neck), and a marked spot 3 notes from the nut. Then make and notate an ajustment, measure the string heights, and see how it plays.

I also figured I should slack the strings some while tilting the neck back, so I didn't put pressure on the adjuster.

The bottom of the trussrod has a knurled thumb-wheel that my thumbs will never be able to move. The wheel has two slots cut in the periphery and looks like there may have been a special tool to turn it.

Any advice on adjustment procedures or turning the trussrod thumb-wheel would be appreciated.

Thanks....Lyle

This may be of some use.

Baby Bass Manual page 1 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg1.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 2 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg2.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 3 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg3.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 4 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg4.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 5 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg5.html)

Baby Bass Manual Page 6 (http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/Ampeg6.html)

That fingerboard tail adjuster is worthless. No matter what you do with it very little changes. I'd ignore it.

In a nutshell I suggest you have whatever strings you like tuned up to pitch. After having done the adjustments for the tailpiece and the pickup adjustments under the bridge I screw the alan screw for the neck tilt in and out until I find the spot where it doesn't buzz when I play.

Be sure it's not sharp or flat each time you adjust something as everything will move given your tuning.

Thats all there is.

I have a half-size (39" scale) Azola 5-string with a high C-string. I'm hoping to get a better sound by replacing it; it seems thin and twangy compared to the rest of the strings, which I believe a DAddarios -- they were what the Azola came strung with. I'd welcome suggestions from any players who have had a similar problem, although don't know how many EUB players have a C-string!:help:

http://www.quinnviolins.com/qv_flexocorbass.shtml

Available in three gauges, the Flexocor is probably the warmest high C string you can get.
I suggest the medium gauge.

Hope this helps,
François

I'll give that string a try.

Francois, they don't have one in 1/2 size; is there an equivalent? Say, the jazz/pizz ones?

Francois, they don't have one in 1/2 size; is there an equivalent?
The choice is very limited for "true" 1/2 size bass strings.
You can use these without any problem, but you may want to choose the thick gauge to compensate for the loss of tension due to the shorter scale.
Say, the jazz/pizz ones?
:confused:

Greetings, I just acquired an Ampeg Baby Bass and have noticed that the output of the pickup seems very low. This is observable through a number of different amps and is quite noticeable when A/B’ed with a passive bass guitar, I have to crank the amp relative to the level with the slab. I’m guessing the obvious solution would be to run it through a preamp, but is this something people typically have to do with Baby Basses? Any BB players out there have similar issues, and if so, do you crank your amp, or is there something faulty with the pickup in my BB? Or rather, is this attributed to the inherent tone of the instrument, and thus something I'll have to get used to if I want to keep it? :confused:

They don't have much gas. However they should be adjusted properly or they are really bad.

Go HERE (http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4926805&postcount=2) for some links to adjusting the bass.

After you've done all that if it's still to anemic use a preamp. Any good bass preamp will do. I use a Bartolini NTBT in a box when I need one but it's overkill.

Into the front end of my Focus or the Walter Woods I can get enough gain not to need one.

I agree with Uncle Toad..it's just the nature of teh beast. I have a friend who has an original Ampeg and a Sendel replica from Colombia. The Sendel Replica plays at the same volume as the Ampeg when put on 3 or 4 on the amp, when the Ampeg needs to be pumped up to 7 or 8. The Sendel has a better gain...due to the newer, non-Ampeg pickup they use. It also has more clarity, though that's why people buy the original Ampeg. They want that warm, pingy sound that was the result of the special "mystery" pickup.

If volume is the issue, just get a preamp or an amp with a combination. My friend plays a 200 watt Ampeg BA- combo amp...powerful enough to amplify pretty much every venue we've played together (small to medium size restaurants), and has been great as a monitor on outdoor festivals. he's never had a problem getting enough power from the Ampeg and the combo amp only. I have an Ampeg BA-210 combo amp...works fine for all my electric and Palatino VE-500 work, and my friend has a model that's slightly different (same wattage, but different features).

Hi Jamiefoxer:
I know the Sendel Baby Basses made in Colombia, this is the URL:
www.babybasssendel.com

Greetings!

A Baby Bass under $1,000.00 is very difficult to obtain, even a used one. I pay more for my Ray Ramirez Baby Bass but it worth the additional amount.

I have a Baby Bass copy coming from Argentina that was a lot less than a grand, but it worked out for me because my family is from there and my parents are visiting, so I arranged for them to pick it up there and bring it back on the plane. I'll have news in two weeks when they get back. I think the pickup is just a standard piezo but it's the Baby Bass body shape. It's my first EUB, I'm quite excited.

Coming from the BG world, I had serious GAS for an upright but not a lot of money. I thought it would be nice to start out on an EUB first, but again, for the price of most EUBs I could save a little longer and get an upright. If only there was an EUB that was less than a Palatino...

Well, an extensive search down Bob Gollihur's EUB links uncovered a possibility. My father is from Argentina, what if there was an EUB maker there who I could get one for cheap from and have him bring it back? I turned up a few names and settled on DiGiacomo & Yavicoli, because they make a Baby Bass clone and it looked pretty nice on the internet. My parents had a trip planned for January, so I had him set something up (I speak Spanish but wanted to make sure there was no confusion) and pulled the trigger. I won't name a dollar price but suffice it to say that it was less than a Palatino (of course, when you figure in plane tickets to Argentina, substantially more). They go through many hassles to get it on the airplanes (when asked what the hell it was by customs officials in Miami, he told them it was for salsa music and their eyes lit up), but finally get it into the country. I cook them a very nice dinner to thank them for the trouble and check out my new bass. Here is a picture (I don't have a camera so this picture, taken as I play my very first notes on it, will have to do):

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2359/2245553450_df0bb6aa76.jpg?v=0

So here is a preliminary review: it is slightly better quality than one would expect for the price. It exudes a very handmade vibe, with the varnish applied somewhat unevenly, but I kind of like that. The woods are South American: The body and neck are made from guatambu, and the fingerboard and bridge are made from guayuvira (the bridge is maple). It doesn't have a scroll, instead something that would look comfortable on the front of a pirate ship. The tuners look like P-bass tuners and I'm not sure how they'll stand up. It came with ROUNDWOUNDS?!?!?! I didn't even know that there were roundwounds this scale! It turns out they are made in Argentina and are probably just electric strings extended longer. They do not suit the bass whatsoever and will be replaced ASAP. The pickup is ok, a cheap piezo, it is extremely microphonic and will be replaced down the road. The action is a little too high for me to handle, I will have to get it lowered as I adjust to the transition.

Of course, the sheer joy of getting it was soon overcome with reality. I knew I needed to get lessons immediately, but I was shocked at how much my hands hurt after a few hours of playing. I have a pretty good ear (did some time at Berklee) and I put position markers to help me adjust, but the sheer physical aspect of it was overwhelming. I've been playing in short spurts to rest my hands, and will be finding a teacher soon to learn proper hand positioning so I don't injure myself.

And then there's this: it just makes me want an upright more. It's nice to have the body shape and all, but I want the real thing so badly. I yearn for the physical sensations of an upright, the times I've played them I greatly enjoyed the full-body aspect of it, and it's just not there with an EUB. So I'm considering putting some money into a rental until I can afford the real thing, and just using this for shows.

In short, what happened to me was exactly what the board said: ain't nothing like the real thing, and you might as well go straight for it. I am excited but know that it's a long ways from an upright and I am planning the steps towards a real one.

Now, some questions: to anyone in Boston who plays a EUB, where do you take it to get set up? My roommate showed up to Rutman's with a Kay cello and they acted snobby to him, I don't want to get ridiculed for this thing. And also, who do you recommend for lessons? (I am having serious cash flow problems, as in I work at an ice cream store so I'm broke all winter, so lessons that don't break the bank would be nice)

Nice score ! :)

Bump for my questions, surely there's a Boston EUBist who can help me out!

You may want to check the Setup & Repair forum to find a luthier to help you out with this instrument.
Nice look!

I recently got an Ampeg Baby bass with the serial number 199 stamped in the headstock. I can only trace it's existence back about 20 years. Does anyone have a list of serial numbers and production dates for this instrument? I was told it is old and may actually be a Zorko bass. The body is plastic and sounds hollow as a Zorko would be rather than the foam-filled Ampeg design.

Does it have double bridges? If so, it´s a Zorko for sure.

Also, Zorkos have hollow fiberglass bodies while Ampegs have plastic foam filled bodies.

I just got hold of a 1966 Baby Bass - It is partially disassembled, so I haven't been able to play it yet but it appears to be in great shape - absolutely no seam separation and all original. I will report further when I get it up and running. Hopefully the electronics are cool.

Looking ahead a bit, I need a good padded gig bag for it. The Azola website has a phone number for JP Custom cases, which they recommend as a supplier, but otherwise I haven't been able to dig up any sources.

Any help would be appreciated.

Did you try Ray Ramirez? I've been wanting to get one of those for a while, money has been stopping me. If I were to get a new bag(I still use the original canvas bag) it would be the one he offers. Go take a look, and good luck!!!

Mooradian will make you one. Very good bags.
http://www.mooradian.com/Double_Bass_Sizing_Guide.html

obviously you have more money than i do. i play music nightly to support myself and pay a mortgage. i wish i could afford to buy a badass case but i cant. azola hasnt had any cases availbale for a long time anyway so even if i had 1000 for the case, there's none available.

so if anyone knows where i can get a sturdy roadcase for my baby, i would appreciate it greatly. if not, i will continue to tour without it, but please dont reply if you dont know. im not looking for opinions, im looking for a roadcase.

thanks

I am having a gig bag made for the Baby by JP Custom Cases. I will report back when I get it, but based on the other cases that I saw in their shop, they do really good work. They are charging me $225 for it, which I feel is is fairly reasonable.
The bass is great, by the way. I will report in more detail later.
I appreciate the other suggestions!

I'm not a luthier at all, but I have been wondering about making a solid body baby bass from a piece of wood rather than the foam interior. Has it been done? How hard would it be to carve that body?

Nick

Maybe the Azolas will jump on this thread. (hope so!)

Regards,
François

correct me if I'm wrong, but unless you use a species of wood that is both extremely light and extremely strong, that is going to be one HEAVY bass.

I didn't think about that. Good point. I wonder what a good choice of wood will be, then?

Nick

Maybe mahogany?
It's used in many guitars.

I originally thought red oak because I know a place where I can get a piece big enough to carve the body out of one piece, but when the weight thing was mentioned, I started thinking about how heavy that might be. Ouch.

Nick

I'd check with Gallery Hardwoods [Larry Davis]-he does custom milling/sizing....be ware though-a huge piece would carry a price tag. Larry was really easy to work with each time that i ordered from him. If i build another bass guitar [or even attempt to build another bass guitar]-i will order from him again.

I've never played a baby bass, nor have i saw one in person so i don't know about exact dimensions. If you're willing to have a multi-piece body, i'd strongly consider alder-pretty cost effective wood & it's been heavily used in the bass guitar world.

I don't think I would try this until I have a baby bass of my own. I would need a model, and I just couldn't do it without something right there to show it to me. However, I thought maybe if I did build one, I would eventually spend less than the 2,000 I would have to spend for a vintage bass or one of the copies, but both those ideas obviously go against each other. It'd be a nice way to save at least a little money and have an instrument I could call my own, but I still don't think it's a good idea without one right here with me.

Nick

You might check out this web page:

http://www.azola.com/sys-tmpl/door/

I have the Azola Bug Bass II and I love it. It is not too heavy and the sound is rich and full. It is extremely easy to transport. I bought it from Bass Central about 18 months ago for about $2300.00; or, just a bit over what you are planning to spend building one.

If I really get anything, it would be the Ampeg Baby Bass first. I REALLY like that sound, and that was the first electric upright I was introduced to when I got into salsa. I've just been wondering about the sound of a baby bass template with a solid wood body. The idea entered my head yesterday while in the shower.

I just found this, though:

http://www.bassplayer.com/article/ampeg-baby-bass/nov-07/32347

In this article:

The original prototype’s body was made of wood, but the Dopyera’s production instruments, sold as the Zorko Mini Bass, were made of fiberglass with a wooden frame. The Dopyeras manufactured these basses until 1962, when Ampeg’s Everett Hull purchased the design, and the Zorko bass became the Ampeg Baby Bass.

Now I'm curious about those prototypes and the Zorko bass. Goes to show how dangerous research can be.

Nick

To continue your time line I may be mistaken but I believe that Steve Azola obtained the rights to produce the Baby Bass after Ampeg discontinued production. Many of his current Azola models are what his imagination lead him to after the baby bass experience.

I've thought about that, too. He actually gave the author of the above article the history lesson.

Azola or Ramirez is another possibility, but I figure if I want an Ampeg Baby Bass, I should get an Ampeg Baby Bass. But, I didn't know he got the Ampeg rights. That helps me go that route if I end up doing it.

Nick

Read the third paragraph in this link:

http://www.azola.com/sys-tmpl/faqaboutus/

Opinions and ideas could help you, but telling people not to post won't.

Phil's suggestions are great, and you should take it into consideration. I am your typical musician; I live paycheck to mouth right now. So I know what it means to not have much money. But, if you need a flight case, I would suggest putting money aside for a while until you have enough.

You didn't mention that you will be flying with the bass, or if it's just going in an equipment truck. That makes a difference, too.

I have noticed many people use cello gig bags for their baby bass. Maybe a cello hard case would work?

Nick

hey guys are there any baby basses out on the market that can sound like a original ampeg or better.


or do they all stink?:help:

check the Azola megathread. It's all you need to know.

This thread is here, by the way:
http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=367975

Many top baby bass players will tell you to try to get the original for that salsa bass sound. Now, once you've played an original ampeg baby bass, you'll hear the difference. There is something about the design and windings of the pickup that produce a really nice punchy and warm sound. The other baby basses get close, but it is up to you if close enough is good enough. Probably the best baby bass copy is made by Ray Ramirez at rayramirezbasses.com, and I've also heard some colombian baby basses that sound really good too.
Good Luck!!

I just bought a baby bass replica from Sendel (www.babybasssendel.com) and it sounds great. For the price ($1200 with case shipped) you can't beat it, if you want that thump.

I am resigned to the fact that I will have to buy an Ampeg Baby bass from overseas...somewhere. But where? I live in Sydney, Australia, play salsa and have tried a few of the EUB's I've seen around in shops. Nothing special. And certainly not a patch on the Ampeg. Last January, when The Spanish Harlem Orchestra came to town, I loaned my rig to their bassist for an impromptu gig. Just a humble Eden head with a 2x10 Ampeg speaker. His Baby sounded heavenly. No sans amp, no nothin'. Just bass and amp. How do I find one anywhere in the world? (Needless to say, a used one would be ideal).
Tina

I wanted to know what strings I could use for an ampeg like bass. the only difference is that the bass is solid wood. It's not fiberglass.

Spirocore Solos (tuned down) for Salsa on the Ampeg. But that's going for the punch at the front-end and the fast decay so great in Salsa.

I think La Bella makes a taped set especially for the Ampeg.

Others will hopefully have more suggestions...Lyle

There are many threads about the Ampeg Baby Bass in the EUB forum. (I asked a moderator to move this thread here)
You can check this selection:

http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=372451

http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=363372

http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=115154

http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=303086

Hope this helps!
François

Hey...why move the thread? The Ampeg BB is one of the first original EUB's. Those other threads are stale.

I've been on the Baby since the 1980's. Most of the cats I knew used Dr. Thomastik, (as I do). I forgot the specific type but I'll find out once I get home.

Wow I even remember the gut strings.....those thing were terrible on the Ampeg, :rollno: (good for bowing though).

The true sound of the baby came mostly from the pick-ups and partially from the UV solid body. So if you have one that's wood the sound may not be the same. Probably sort of unique though.

The Ampeg Baby bass is a thumpy conga sounding instrument, (maybe that's why it's so popular with Latin music). For some reason some country groups like it too.

That may be because in the earlier times the Ampeg BB was used in almost all the Polka bands of yesteryear. It was an awesome combination of sounds with an accordian.

Good luck!

For Salsa on the baby bass the Spirocore Solo is the defacto standard tone.

Superflex are darker a little stiffer and less complex.

I'm sure they'd be fine but why bother?

It probably all comes down to taste. I've been playing Salsa since the 80's. I don't agree that there's a defacto sound.

What my camp likes is the thumpy, percussive thud sound that compliments the conga. Sustain and tone is for more of a Jazz influence.

The thumpy sound is the most wanted with all the groups I ever played for. In fact, I knew of a cat they nicked-name 'Thumpy'. The compliment of the baritone sax and the BB together was what a lot of the early Mambo kings arranged for, (for example Ray Sanchez of the Tito Rodriguez Orq).

It probably all comes down to taste. I've been playing Salsa since the 80's. I don't agree that there's a defacto sound.

What my camp likes is the thumpy, percussive thud sound that compliments the conga. Sustain and tone is for more of a Jazz influence.

The thumpy sound is the most wanted with all the groups I ever played for. In fact, I knew of a cat they nicked-name 'Thumpy'. The compliment of the baritone sax and the BB together was what a lot of the early Mambo kings arranged for, (for example Ray Sanchez of the Tito Rodriguez Orq).I agree with that. The front end attack of the Spirocore solo is fantastic for that sound, especially when they are dead.

What do you use?

I use Dr. Thomastik, I forgot the name brand, (could'nt pronounce the big German name half the time so I just brought the string package to the shop). I'd sometimes get mine at the Bass Shop at 23rd in NYC, or any DB music shop I would find them at. (Coughing up $100.00 back in the day was not easy...that'd be one gig easily :rollno:).

My Ampeg came with gut strings but to me they sounded horrible that way. (Good for bowing though). Also, the original aluminum bridge had a long sustain to it. Made my own 1/4sawn Maple bridge. That helped. Then I made my own tailpiece from Ebony. That too helped. Love that sound! (I'm a traditionist....I still turn the tone knob to zero).

Conga players love that tumbao! :D

I use Dr. Thomastik, I forgot the name brand, (could'nt pronounce the big German name half the time so I just brought the string package to the shop). I'd sometimes get mine at the Bass Shop at 23rd in NYC, or any DB music shop I would find them at. (Coughing up $100.00 back in the day was not easy...that'd be one gig easily :rollno:).

My Ampeg came with gut strings but to me they sounded horrible that way. (Good for bowing though). Also, the original aluminum bridge had a long sustain to it. Made my own 1/4sawn Maple bridge. That helped. Then I made my own tailpiece from Ebony. That too helped. Love that sound! (I'm a traditionist....I still turn the tone knob to zero).

Conga players love that tumbao! :DWhat color are the silks on either end of the strings?

Off the top of my head don't remember. I'm not home yet but I'll take a look-see.

Off the top of my head don't remember. I'm not home yet but I'll take a look-see.cool. enquiring minds....

What color are the silks on either end of the strings?


Lol!! :rolleyes:

They're Dr. Thomastik Spirocore yellow/reds....:D

Lol!! :rolleyes:

They're Dr. Thomastik Spirocore yellow/reds....:DYep. Spirocore Solos just like papa toad!

....the salsa string if you're asking me.

Here's an update on my quest to improve my BB. But keep in mind I want it to sound like a real DB and have as much sustain as possible--not the salsa thing most BBers are after. I tried another piezo pickup under the bass side bridge foot It was an MSI ACH-0 (http://www.meas-spec.com/product/t_product.aspx?id=5123)1. I built a custom buffer/preamp for this accel. I put wood shims under the other foot to even it. Then I readjusted the neck angle to restore the string height. I actually went a lot farther and made the string height much closer than it had been.

The result showed some promise, but there are issues: dead spots, etc. I've left the pickup in place, but I still prefer the sound of the Fishman BP-100 mounted onto the aluminum bridge, at least for now. I perhaps could tweak the MSI further, but have not done so.

What I did do is restring the bass with an old set: The G and A are old Helicore medium hybrids, the D is a Spirocore Weich, and I left the E as is: an old Super Sensitive (I think). These strings along with the low string height produce unbelievable sustain for this bass. All things considered, it sounds quite good, IMO. Again, salsa thumpers need not apply, with all due respect to them.

FYI, I updated the last link above with a new post.

For those wondering what Aleph5 is talking about, it's that thread:
http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=303086

Thanks!
François

Have you tried the BP100 elements under the bridge feet on top of the metal discs?

Hi Fellas,

was wondering if anyone knows of or has an aluminum ampeg baby bass bridge I could purchase. Im not to crazy about the wood bridge on one of my baby basses.

un abrazo - Abe

I suggest you get in touch with the Azolas.
They may have some in stock.
jill@azola.com

Colombians make a good version
I may have one

I lost mine years ago and I was'nt happy about that. :bawl: (original stuff is impossible to find although I did'nt like the bass sustain in the Latin music I performed).

You'll get more sustain with the aluminum bridge. I guess you're not using it for Latin licks? :D

correction my friend ..... the wood bridge gives you the sustain ... the metal bridge is tha way to go for the punch needed in salsa ... the ampeg bridges had dampers on them adding to the punch .. but then again quality conytol on ampegs wasnt that great ... some baby basses were great then some other batches were horrid ... Im lucky to own two babys that are absolutley wonderful sonically and structurally .... the babys with the upright like tailpieces seem to sound the best .. these were produced in the latter part of the babys time in manufacturing

and yes all i play is Latin smarty pants lol

Hey... what's up dudes? Nothin', just saying what's up?

correction my friend ..... the wood bridge gives you the sustain ... the metal bridge is tha way to go for the punch needed in salsa ... the ampeg bridges had dampers on them adding to the punch .. but then again quality conytol on ampegs wasnt that great ... some baby basses were great then some other batches were horrid ... Im lucky to own two babys that are absolutley wonderful sonically and structurally .... the babys with the upright like tailpieces seem to sound the best .. these were produced in the latter part of the babys time in manufacturing

I believe the dambers were made of rubber. I guess to each his own on bridges too? I've had em both and would respectfully disagree with the sound characteristics. :hmm:

Now, about that tail piece....they're made of aluminum too. So how would that make a differance?

I like to add that most Ampeg baby bass players that I know had their bridges made of 1/4 sawn maple and got rid of the aluminum bridge also. :scowl:

As Bajocallao suggested, there is a Columbian copy of the Ampeg. I forgot the website, (they call it the Sendel or something like that). They make both the wooden and aluminum bridges. The traditional looks exactly like the Ampeg bridges.

http://www.babybasssendel.com/baby_tradicional.htm


Hey... what's up dudes? Nothin', just saying what's up?

Hey what's up RR...:D

Staying away from this opinion are you? :smug:

Does anyone have/know where to get a magnetic diaphragm pickup for a baby bass? It doesn't have to be an authentic ampeg number, but I want that sound/style.

I've emailed a few makers in Colombia, but the shipping is really pricey. According to one maker's website, he gets his pickups from a business in Miami, but I can't find any info on who that pickup maker might be online. Anyone know who it might be and how to contact him/her?

I've built several acoustic double basses, but am now playing more salsa than jazz and want to make a baby. I'm just pretty clueless when it comes to pickups/electronics, so any help is greatly appreciated!

Marty

Inquire Steve Azola, Azola basses. He made the reissue for Ampeg and it sounded very convincing.

Perhaps he has a source or could supply you.

Hi,
I am looking to buy an Ampeg Baby Bass to replace my Aria stick-bass but have read conflicting accounts about the reaction of the Ampeg's Uvex and foam body to heat.

I live and gig in Australia (which can get quite hot) and regularly play under hot stage lighting.

I am a bit worried about spending money on an old Baby Bass after reading about the "exploding bass" incidents where the foam has expanded and split the body. I am also concerned about reports of a chemical odour the bass body produces when under hot stage lights.

I have read that these incidents have only occured with defective basses, but then have read elsewhere that all Babys act the same way!

I am hoping someone with Baby Bass experience on this great forum can share some experiences and insight to help me decide whether to get an Uvex-body Ampeg or not. If a Baby is less stable/durable than a good ply bass then I may as well take the plunge and go acoustic!

Thanks for your help.

Thanks! I've emailed them and am waiting to hear back. But if anyone has any other leads, I'm all ears.

I hope other owners will chime in, but I've played a Baby Bass for years, and I don't think they're quite that sensitive. I think by the time it got hot enough to harm the Ampeg, it would be way past the point where I was uncomfortable being on the stage.

Leave the Bass in a hot car, in the bag, in the sun...yes, you have problems. I saw one damaged from leaning up against a hot radiator during Winter. And I probably wouldn't leave it on a stand facing the blazing sun for hours on end, but I don't think I'd do that with a plywood Upright either.

...Lyle

Thanks for the info Lyle. I'm pretty keen on getting a Baby, there aren't many in Australia. Simply because of that fact (I have only seen one years ago in Japan) I'm a bit cautious!

I've had an Ampeg Baby for almost 30 years now, and it's been subjected to all kinds of weather and humidity conditions and it has never given me any problems. I do treat it like I treat my larger upright acoustic basses, carefully, but I've been happy with it from day 1. When I got it, I had Don Underwood himself modify it with a wooden bridge and his pick-up, giving it a more acoustic sound, which I love.

Rahn Yanes

Will do. Where are you located? Sonoma County?

I played an Ampeg baby bass for years here in Florida and I never had any trouble with it as far as humidy or heat problems went. I had played several outdoor shows with it, so it was well tested to some hot and humid outdoor elements. Of course, outside of playing outdoor shows, I always had it stored and played it inside of air conditioned environments.

Actually, as I was a Luthier for Guild Musical Corporation in Rhode Island during the early 80's, I noticed that EB's need to have their necks straightened for intonation more often down here in Florida than up north (about once a month here with frequent playing as compared to around once every 6 months up north), but of course that aspect doesn't apply so much to EUB's and DB's.

I live in vallejo ca and work in san francisco ca as a sound technician.

What do you think about LaBella strings?,did you hear about this strings?specially Black nylon tape?,I used These on my baby bass AMPEG ,and I am satisfaded, but I can not compare because I never had other strings ,therefore I need other opinions like yours.Thanks!:help:

What do you think about LaBella strings?,did you hear about this strings?specially Black nylon tape?,I used These on my baby bass AMPEG ,and I am satisfaded, but I can not compare because I never had other strings ,therefore I need other opinions like yours.Thanks!

I had a set of the Black Tape Labellas for Baby Bass. I didn't like them near as much as the Spiro Solos.

Thanks for your answer uncletoad,but I saw the Thomastik Internet catalog and I am confuse because they put by information about the set string the next:
3/4 Bass
Solo Tuning
A(I) $35.30
E(II) $37.50
B(III) $41.95
F# (IV) $47.75
Set $162.50 Set
Thats means that they are in other tuning? We have to turn that? Please explain me that,thanks!:help:Or should I buy the Set model "Spirocore Light"?

Solo-tuning is a whole step above orchestra pitch, thus F# B E A.
Strings made for that pich are thinner than normal.
Think of them as ultra-light gauge.
When tuned at regular orchestra pitch (EADG), you get an extra-light string.

Thanks for your answer uncletoad,but I saw the Thomastik Internet catalog and I am confuse because they put by information about the set string the next:
3/4 Bass
Solo Tuning
A(I) $35.30
E(II) $37.50
B(III) $41.95
F# (IV) $47.75
Set $162.50 Set
Thats means that they are in other tuning? We have to turn that? Please explain me that,thanks!:help:Or should I buy the Set model "Spirocore Light"?
Solo Tuning Spirocores are designed to have similar tension as Orchestra tuned Spirocores but at solo tension which is tuned up from E to F# A to B etc. What people do often is tune the Solo sets to Orchestra tuning, E A D G, and experience an even lower tension than the light or Weich strings.

The bounce of the solo strings tuned standard is part of the sound you are looking for. Weich or light strings are not the same.

dooh...beat me to it...

I'm looking at an Ampeg Baby Bass and am wondering what they are worth....the guy wants $1000

I was looking for an acoustic upright for oldtyme bluegrass but found this instead any opinions?

I'm looking at an Ampeg Baby Bass and am wondering what they are worth....the guy wants $1000

I was looking for an acoustic upright for oldtyme bluegrass but found this instead any opinions?That's half of what they usually sell for unless something is broken or missing.

It's not much use for Bluegrass though. Buy and old plywood German for $1000 to $2000 instead.

Yes, buy an old plywood for playing bluegrass, and buy the ampeg baby bass and you might be able to sell it for a profit.
Rudy's on 48th st. had one on their website and when I stopped by I was told it sold for $3900.

I'm selling one for $2500 and posted it in classifieds.

Yes, buy an old plywood for playing bluegrass, and buy the ampeg baby bass and you might be able to sell it for a profit.
Rudy's on 48th st. had one on their website and when I stopped by I was told it sold for $3900.

I'm selling one for $2500 and posted it in classifieds.Perhaps the one at Rudy's was White or Black and mint. That's the highest price I've ever heard of for one.

Typical sunburst ones with intact sides and no issues have yet to command over $2200 that I have seen...although in NYC everything is more expensive.

Perhaps the one at Rudy's was White or Black and mint. That's the highest price I've ever heard of for one.

Typical sunburst ones with intact sides and no issues have yet to command over $2200 that I have seen...although in NYC everything is more expensive.

The Rudy's ad (in my browser's cache... they took it down from the website as it had sold) said
"1963 Ampeg Baby Bass Upright
Mint conditions, sounds fantastic.Beautiful fiber glass body with nylon strings. With original gig bag."

The guy I spoke to said it was red (tho the pic that was on the website looked sunburst) and that it was mint. He said one would only sell for $2000 if it was really beat. And, yes everything in NYC is more :)

The Rudy's ad (in my browser's cache... they took it down from the website as it had sold) said
"1963 Ampeg Baby Bass Upright
Mint conditions, sounds fantastic.Beautiful fiber glass body with nylon strings. With original gig bag."

The guy I spoke to said it was red (tho the pic that was on the website looked sunburst) and that it was mint. He said one would only sell for $2000 if it was really beat. And, yes everything in NYC is more :)Yea Red '63 Mint you can name your price.

$2500 in NYC makes sense. Out here in the Land Of Cows they just look at it and say "what the hell's that?".

I paid $200 for a sunburst BB in perfect condition with padded gig bag back in '73. Ah the good old days.:D

+1 on not recommending an Ampeg for Bluegrass. A decent plywood DB would be way better.

Thanks all

I bought the Upright ...german ply real nice

The Ampeg was not really for sale it seems....he may have searched ebay and saw a higher value....which is fine It is his treasure after all

If anyone is looking for an Ampeg Baby Bass, please see my post:

http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?p=6808569

I have a sendel baby bass and the aluminum bridge sounded like crap. I ordered a custom maple bridge from Ray Ramirez website, and it sounds great now.

I guess I had the opposite experience of djstugots'. I bought and restored an early Ampeg Baby (with "Ampeg" on the scroll and without the tailpiece, but a rubber damper). I tried a Ray Ramirez maple bridge, but didn't like the sound (too much sustain for my taste). So I went back to the aluminum bridge. The bridge dampers broke into pieces, but I ended up using foam between the bridge and strings. And now it's got the sound I was looking for.

...I bought and restored an early Ampeg Baby (with "Ampeg" on the scroll and without the tailpiece, but a rubber damper). ....

Sounds like it's a really early Ampeg. They were actually converted Zorkos. I think the first thing they did was to remove the double bridge system and Zorko label on the headstock, (replaced with Ampeg). Not sure about the sound quality but they did sound differant from what I read.

I guess I had the opposite experience of djstugots'. I bought and restored an early Ampeg Baby (with "Ampeg" on the scroll and without the tailpiece, but a rubber damper). I tried a Ray Ramirez maple bridge, but didn't like the sound (too much sustain for my taste). So I went back to the aluminum bridge. The bridge dampers broke into pieces, but I ended up using foam between the bridge and strings. And now it's got the sound I was looking for.
you can also place a washcloth between the strings and bridge protection and dampen the sustain...

Are there any baby basses that can be played acoustically (without amplification)?

I am new to the baby bass, so any information will be greatly appreciated.

Are you talking of the Ampeg Baby Bass?

If so, this has to be played through an amp.
It has next to none acoustic tone, unless you woodshed alone.

Are you talking of the Ampeg Baby Bass?

If so, this has to be played through an amp.
It has next to none acoustic tone, unless you woodshed alone.


I can't be certain, but I think for some reason that the OP is referring to pretty much all EUBs as "baby basses".

My guess is that most of the EUBs that are even remotely hollow can be used acoustically for practice alone in your home (the Azola Reissue Baby can), but I wouldn't expect any of them to be sufficiently loud for an acoustic performance, solo or otherwise.

Hey man, I recently bought a sweet instructional book from the ray ramirez website (google it a site to see) and he recommends thomastic flex core (rope core) which are modestly priced and sound like butter man. I had the d'adarios with the same issues. Ugly mawwy tone. Mine were pizz strings so steer clear of those. Keep the tumbao bro! Later!

Hey man, I recently bought a sweet instructional book from the ray ramirez website (google it a site to see) and he recommends thomastic flex core (rope core) which are modestly priced and sound like butter man. I had the d'adarios with the same issues. Ugly mawwy tone. Mine were pizz strings so steer clear of those. Keep the tumbao bro! Later!

There's no such string as the Thomastik flex core.
Their bass steel strings are BelCanto, Spirocore, Superflexible and Precision.
I know Ray mostly suggests solo-tuning Spirocores for the BB.

I have just inherited my grandfather's Ampeg Baby Bass. If you don't know, it a sixties era electric upright. (Rick Danko plays one in the Band's "the Last Waltz", and I have seen the bassplayer for Santana with one as well.)
I have heard that the pickups, which are designed to work with either gut ow wound strings based on a floating bridge pickup are not very good, unless you want that dull Salsa "Thump". (I haven't strung it yet so I don't know how it sounds, either. The strings are on special order.)
I understand that there is a company that makes new versions of this bass with better pickups. My question is - Will I ruin the value of the instrument by changing the pickups? This baby is in GREAT condition, and as I'm just starting to approach the EUB, should I just develop technique on this and then buy a newer EUB when I'm good enough and can afford it? Any comments would be appreciated.

Hey,

I suggest playing the bass as is for a few months before considering changing anything. The Ampeg Baby Bass is a classic and the 'sound for salsa' for a reason. Let yourself appreciate what's already there before trying to alter it.

Here's the Baby Bass Manual. :-)
http://www.direct.ca/west/demo/bb/AmpegFrame.html


The new company is Azola.

Don't touch the bass it's a classic, and the sound is classic, play the bass as is get the feel of a EUB then move on to something else, if you want more tone options.
With these basses if you start to see the seams opening up get it fixed right away, they are filled with foam and when it starts they can be hell to fix.

If you find you don't like it and want to sell it, here's one potential buyer.

Play it as is for awhile. Then if you want more Steve Azola makes a wood bridge that fits right on there without messing with the original pickup and the Azola bridge can be bought with a matching K&K Bassmax that sounds very good.

Ray Ramirez also sells Baby Bass accessories (besides his own BB rendition):
http://home.coqui.net/rramirez/accesories.htm

I bought a bridge and it's great.

Regards,
François

The bass pickup on that bass is antique and the sound would be the same. Getting a new one will take away from its original sound plus, you'll end up sounding like the rest. If it has issues take it to Ray or Steve however, changing would kill the bass. That pickup was invented by Jess Oliver, and the pickup in some cases were hand coiled. Play with it first before getting the pickup changed..

Thanks, guys :) I'll keep it the way it is. Next question - anyone know where to look for a serial number on this thing?

Try asking Bruce Johnson who is an expert on Ampeg
and a very helpful chap.....

http://www.xstrange.com/index.html

Fwiw I use my Baby Bass stock with the stock metal bridge. I have tried a bunch of other things and always ended up back the way it was. It does what it does like that best.

The serial number on mine is on the bottom of the tailpiece where it connects to the body.

I was going to buy one at a guitar show , the seams came apart and the guy tried to fix it with lag bolts and nuts , it was about a 2" opening on the one side and 1" on the other side "nasty". He wanted $350 for it, the sound may have still been there, but you talk about "frankenstein" forget it.

I have just inherited my grandfather's Ampeg Baby Bass. If you don't know, it a sixties era electric upright. (Rick Danko plays one in the Band's "the Last Waltz", and I have seen the bassplayer for Santana with one as well.)
I have heard that the pickups, which are designed to work with either gut ow wound strings based on a floating bridge pickup are not very good, unless you want that dull Salsa "Thump". (I haven't strung it yet so I don't know how it sounds, either. The strings are on special order.)
I understand that there is a company that makes new versions of this bass with better pickups. My question is - Will I ruin the value of the instrument by changing the pickups? This baby is in GREAT condition, and as I'm just starting to approach the EUB, should I just develop technique on this and then buy a newer EUB when I'm good enough and can afford it? Any comments would be appreciated.
like mentioned above by the previous post... you could try with diff. sets of strings and with a flexible amp-rig/stack, dial in some good tones with that baby bass... it is worth more original !!!! and if you decide to make alterations, make sure you can reverse them back... I'm bias when it comes to ampeg BB... for latin, latin-rock music they just ROCK !!!! good luck and enjoy "Thump" -mel-