I am a junior in high school looking to purchase my first double bass. I have no idea what to look for, how much to spend, what is too little - what is too much?
Laminate good or bad?
I will be taking the instrument to a cold weather area for college.
Any and all help I can get is appreciated!
Thnak you

Hey, thanks for asking!
There are numerous considerations when getting a first bass, but realize that, if you are a growing musician - both in physique and musically, your first instrument you will out-grow pretty quickly (three-five years?). So spend as much as you can on a nice instrument, because it is a big growth time, and don't buy something you cannot re-sell. Laminated is fine as long it is good quality, sounds good to you and your teacher, and has an established reputation as a brand (like Kay). Beware brand new instruments in that they sometimes are made with "green" wood - not that you cannot find a good brand-new instrument. Just consider where/who made it etc. Cold climates are no worse on a bass than warm, but humidy or lack thereof and temperature do play roles in how the bass wears. Cracks often happen on new instruments that were made in a moderately humid climat and move to a dry (like Germany to ARizona). Care must be taken for the first five years, keeping the bass carefull climatized. Size is super important. Don't get a bass that is too big for you (see other threads here).
Good Luck! Involve your private teacher in this.
PN

I am a junior in high school looking to purchase my first double bass. I have no idea what to look for, how much to spend, what is too little - what is too much?
Laminate good or bad?
I will be taking the instrument to a cold weather area for college.
Any and all help I can get is appreciated!
Thnak you