hey all,

i was cruising online and these BSX basses caught my eye. actually is was the Allegro. anyone play one?? what dy'all think?

http://www.bsxbass.com/allegro.html

Can't comment on that model, but I did own a T series and liked it very much.
Best EUB I found to date. I used it to record some tunes on my bands album, "After Hours"
http://www.mp3.com/after_hours

Too much sustain and no real acoustic "kick" or "boom" if you will to be mistaken for an acoustic.

I play a DeArmond Ashbory which has the "boom" but not the centered tone which comes with the greater string length.

So its a trade off.

Good Luck
Dave

I ordered a BSX bass from this guy called DINO over the net. Sent my payment, told it'll be 6 weeks. Now it's almost 4 - 5 months, I get replies like parts are in shortage, etc... now he doesn't reply my e-mail.

Does anyone know this guy? Or is this an elaborate scam???

HELP!!!

Try not to worry too much ... Dino at BSX is a real person building basses, definitely *not* a scam. There is probably some valid explanation for the lack of communication ... computer trouble, illness, family complications, natural disaster ... something of that nature. Most of the electric upright builders are small operations. We all do our best to estimate completion times on instruments, but it is an inexact science, and sometimes unexpected emergencies cause delays. Also, with the internet opening us up to the whole world, some of us have been flooded with email correspondence which takes a lot of time to keep up with. I don't know if Dino has any help ... luckily I have Jill to handle most of the correspondence, so I can focus on making instruments. But even she has trouble keeping up sometimes.

Keep trying to be patient. Surely Dino will either refund your money or send you your instrument once he knows how distressed you are about the situation.

Good luck.

Sincerely,
Steve
www.azola.com

Thanks for the assurance. I should be more patient... ooops, wait till he finds out I wrote this. He'll probably destroy my bass.... HAHA.

Mebbe time to consider an AZOLA bass???
But seriously, this is great man, this website...

I have a BSX 5 string stick that I just got back. It was out of commission since summer '03. ( it had a tailpiece made of PCV tube bent to horseshoe shape, a terrible design which finally gave out) I bought a set of Corelli 380 TX for it, and took it to Dave Borisoff at Hipshot who made a new tailpiece;a more traditional design. I should mention this was my main jazz axe for years, three years ago moving to acoustic. My problem with the Corellis is they feel too flexible, too much give, not enough snap. I'm not sure how much of this is the strings, and how much is me getting stronger playing acoustic, but I need a change. Also the intrinsic sound of the BSX is a factor- it is very phat and deep, dark and wide, but lacks center. So, would heavier strings give it more punch? Can I get a recommendation given these parameters? Thanks everyone :help:

Which gauge are the Corellis?
I agree that the M gauge is not appropriate for pizz playing.
I also suggest you browse the new eub forum, the strings forum newbie links and search the strings forum about EUBs.
There has been several threads about eub stringing.
Also, what kind of tone are you looking for?

Thank you Francois. I believe TX is the heaviest 380 gauge. As far as tone, I am trying to counter-balance the intrinsic sound of the bass itself, as described before. I need punch. Sustain it has a ton, also lots of fundamental, as if it was run thru an octave divider. I wish all of you could play it and give me an informed opinion, it's strange trying to describe how it sounds and feels.

Forgive me, I didn't realize you indicated the string gauge (TX) in your first post.
How about Pirastro Jazzers or Thomastik Spirocores?
They have plenty of punch and overtones.

Hey folks:

Sorry to bump a really old thread, but I just snagged a BSX ST-series 4-string off Ebay for what I believe is a very good price ($700...what do you think?). Looks to be in reasonably good shape (has a crack in the body finish that is alledgedly cosmetic only, and a bent tuner which I'll either straighten or replace). Alledgedly, everything else is as it should be. I'll hopefully have it in my possession within a week or two.

I'm primarily an electric bassist so I'm quite excited entering the upright world. (And yes, I have researched the whole EUB vs. URB deal, and understand that an EUB is a somewhat different instrument from the URB...an EUB was still what I fits my needs the best.)

Dave

If you have any issues with the BSX, I've found Dino to be very responsive to email inquiries. I'm very satisfied with mine, FWIW.
http://www.passing-wind.com/images/BSX.jpg

Have fun!

If you have any issues with the BSX, I've found Dino to be very responsive to email inquiries. I'm very satisfied with mine, FWIW.
http://www.passing-wind.com/images/BSX.jpg

Have fun!

I agree, Dino is a gentleman. I had to replace a broken tuner recently and he provided me with the correct Hipshot part number for replacement, he even offered to send me one if he found a loose one layin' around. I have the 2000 model which looks very simillar to yours. It is serial #4 ! Dino says this was the fourth bass he built for commercial sale 15 years ago. Enjoy your "pogo stick" , it really is a fine instrument. ;)

I agree, Dino is a gentleman. I had to replace a broken tuner recently and he provided me with the correct Hipshot part number for replacement, he even offered to send me one if he found a loose one layin' around. I have the 2000 model which looks very simillar to yours. It is serial #4 ! Dino says this was the fourth bass he built for commercial sale 15 years ago. Enjoy your "pogo stick" , it really is a fine instrument. ;)

Mine's around 15 years old as well, according to Dino. I'm considering getting the new bridge system installed, because the arco sound is pretty uneven from string to string. This is my main gigging instrument though, so it'd be hard to do without for an extended time.

Hope not too late - I have owned three BSX UEB's all great. The yellow Allegro five string on the site is mine. Plays like butter. As i travel around the lower 48 doing about 120 concerts a year - I have the flight case and it helps alot. Any questions do not hesitate to ask.

I've sent a few emails to Dino at BSX since I got my new/old BSX ST-4, and I have had any replies. Any idea what's going on? I don't know Dino as this is my first attempts at any communications with him, but I've certainly heard that he's a really nice fellow and very customer service oriented. I doubt that he's ignoring my emails because I'm asking questions about a used EUB that I own.

So far, I'm very pleased with the ST-4. I'd really like the stand for it though...anyone know of a source other than Dino, since he isn't answering? Would anyone post some good pics of the stand if you have it? I'm pretty sure I could modify a decent cymbal stand to serve the need...

Thx!
Dave

Would anyone post some good pics of the stand if you have it? I'm pretty sure I could modify a decent cymbal stand to serve the need...

Mine's partly visible in the photo further up this thread. It was made from a Tama cymbal stand. I can email you photos as soon as I get my digicam batteries recharged, if you'd like. I have no idea if my stand looks the same as whatever BSX provides these days though?

Passinwind:

Yes, I'd really appreciate some photos if you wouldn't mind. My email address is davesisk at ipass dot net.

Thx!
Dave

I had one for about 2 years. I couldn't wait to unload it. With anything it is personal preference. The reasons I didn't care for it was that it never felt comfortable (ergonomically), and it weighed a ton (body made of HDF). Had way too much sustain (kind of like a solid body electric bass) to sound acoustic.

I really like mine. I have it a bit less than a year. It took a bit of time to tweak it. YOU HAVE TO PUT ON THE SPIROCORE HALF SCALES or you will regret it. They're an option but worth every penny. It took me a while to understand the preamp and how the piezo's respond. (I think you need to crank the bass and back off on the mids and highs to avoid that Piezo neck noise). You have to learn how hard or soft to hit the strings to get the sound you want. Piezo's respond much differently than electric pickups. And it took me a while to get it set up the way I like, but now the guys I play with rave, and it sure is easy to get around with. It looks good and is pretty sturdy. Nice consistent sound. Dino is a sweetheart and will take time to talk to you. Tell him what scale you want, what woods, etc, so that it'll be closer to your upright feel when you get the instrument

Yes, I must throw in my opinion...the sound of the bass is quite good, but does take some serious tweaking. Because my primary instrument is an acoustic upright, I find the BSX has taken some time to get used to. However, I'm still not sure how much I ultimately love the thing... It comes in very handy when playing in small, loud venues, or larger concert situations -- where the volume is an issue. However, feel-wise, I can't honestly say I practice on the instrument as much as I should -- I spend all my time on the "real" bass. I posted a review of mine on the bgra site. However, I will most likely be offering it up for sale some time this summer -- as I really want to put some more $$$ into my acoustic bass and amplifier situation.

Anyone play one of these? What do you think? Also do I order them from the BSX webpage because I didnt seem to find an order page there.
Thank you.

Just got home from NAMM. Played the NS DB, KYDD "Big Kidd", Zeta DB (didn't catch the model, they were not there but a booth had on on display) and the BSX Allegro.
Getting the Allegro in a five string. IMO it had the most natural "DB-ish" sound and feel.
It should be here in a about 6 weeks.
Ordered it with the Weich (sp?) strings on it. Played one with the stock strings and the Weichs just had a far nicer tone and feel.
:hyper:

Very cool and welcome back!!!
K

Mike
I see at the BSX site that they have a new model - the "Halfnote". Did you get to try that one?

Mike
I see at the BSX site that they have a new model - the "Halfnote". Did you get to try that one?

Yeah I did. I didn't spend a lot of time on the Half Note to really give a deep evaluation as I was there checking out the Allegro.
Very nice, but the Allegro seemed,to my ears anyway, more full and rich. Much more open if you will.
Which I guess means you have to "open" your wallet more as well!! :D

I have been a proud owner of a Half-Note acoustic electric for a few months now and I have nothing but good to say about it. I have never played upright but I have to say that this bass captures the sound and feel excellently.
I probably have one of the first of these basses as Dino at BSX told me that they were just starting on them and I ordered one right away (in March I believe)
Dino builds great basses and is a great guy to deal with, I would highly recommend buying a BSX bass.

My Allegro ships on Monday!!! :hyper:
I'll be in Indy for work Monday thru Wed, but it should arrive at Low Down Sound by the time I get home!

I drove thru PA on friday and got to visit Dino at BSX to try some basses. I played the 5 string Allegro that was being shipped out and it was great. 1st EUB that I enjoyed playing, ever!
The low string is very beefy and doesn't have any tension or volume problems like 5 string uprights can. Im going to get an allegro and then sell my van and get a station wagon.

Wow!
So it was sweet eh?!?! (i kinda knew it would be when I ordered it)
Thanks for the note!

i just received a bsx allegro 4 string that i purchased off of ebay. it is in mint condition (for once, an ebay seller that represented the item accurately and did everything he said he would!) and a wonderful sounding bass :hyper: . acoustically, it is plenty loud enough to practice (and play along to a cd) and has a really nice acoustic tone - very much like a URB just not as loud. i'm still experimenting with the amplified sound with a couple of different amps, preamps, and the onboard bart preamp, but i'm liking what i hear.

now, the "i'm a dumbass part": i got the bass friday, and while i was assembling it, i was watching the movie fargo. i got the strings on and was ready to tune up, so i just grabbed a bass guitar and hit the G string. i start tuning the allegro's G string up to that note (keeping in mind that i'm doing this acoustically - nothing's plugged in, i can't hear all that well and i'm not paying as much attention as i should be), and once the allegro's G is tuned, i tune the rest of the bass to the G.

so, i'm playing the bass all weekend, and the tuning doesn't sound quite right, but the bass is tuned to itself so i can do scales and exercises. a couple of times, i connect it to my tuner, but the tuner doesn't seem to "work" with the allegro. also, i'm wishing the bass were a little louder acoustically, i can barely hear my E string, and compared to what i was expecting , the bass is so easy to play. i guess my hands are THAT strong and my technique is THAT awesome.

well, i decide to play to a cd last night, and i'm all out of tune??? so i find the chord roots on my bass, and low and behold, i discover that when i initially tuned the the allegro's G string, i only brought it up to the C below the G. I HAD TUNED THE BASS ADGC ON THE LOW SIDE!!! DOH!!! i guess in my low volume, distracted state, the fifth sounded good enough!

i immediately corrected the tuning, and guess what, the bass now sounds great, i can hear all of the strings, it's louder acoustically, the tone is sweet, and it's a lot harder to play!

owwwww - my fingers hurt... :confused:

a question for EUB players with basses similar to the Eminence or Allegro - has anyone tried adding an external mic and then blending in the mic'd sound with the onboard pickup and/or preamp? if so, how was the sound?

I've had my 4 string about a year now. Very hip. Spirocores are a must. Very easy to adjust and it's nice to have control over your sound. The eq in the back is easy to use as is the neck adjustment. I can't tell you the compliments I get on the look and the sound playing with either a loud rockabilly band or
playing society gigs in NYC. It was the coolest move I could make. Saves me banging around my Juzek, saves my back, and since I always had to use a pickup, why not use a bass with the electronics already on board? Portability and durability are also important to me. Easy to handle and sturdy. It sounds great and plays great. As they say here in NY: "What's not to like?" Dino is a cool guy too.; friendly and always willing to help tweak.
Peter

Got it today.
Wow!!!
Used it on the gig tonight for a few tunes.
Wow!!

a question for EUB players with basses similar to the Eminence or Allegro - has anyone tried adding an external mic and then blending in the mic'd sound with the onboard pickup and/or preamp? if so, how was the sound?

I've got the emimence and micing it doesn't do very much. There isn't enough acoustic fundamental tone coming off of it to make an appreciable differnece. Maybe for slapping it would be useful but I find it sounds really good just plugged in. Closest in tone to an amplified plywood I've heard from any EUBs. The best thing I ever did to the eminence was to put labella guts on D and G and crank the action up a bunch. Cranking up the action made more difference than anything else in approaching an upright sound.

I know this is an old thread, but I'm brand new to TalkBass, after lurking for a while. I am a semi-pro electric bassist, and used to play upright years ago ... and I just ordered a BSX ST-4, that will arrive on Wednesday 11/02/05. I'm very excited! I ordered some Corelli 370 Forte strings and a nice french bow from (all hail) Bob Gollihur, and can't wait to get started. Eventually, I plan to get a true acoustic, but for now the portability and the easier playing of the EUB are attractive to me as i get back into "the dark side."

I'll give a report once I have the ST-4 ... I'm supposed to use it on a gig on the 11th, so we'll see how quickly my upright chops come back!

And since this is my first post, let me thank everyone for all of the great posts and helpful information here!

Well, the ST-4 arrived yesterday, and so far so good! It's very nice, and I was really surprised at how 'acoustic' it sounds when plugged into my old Polytone! Especially arco, the sound is pretty realistic. There's a bit more sustain, but it has much more of an 'upright' sound and feel than, for example, the NS Design CR4M I played before deciding to buy this one. I bought it sight-unseen based on the price and being able to have someone else try it out and give me a report, but I'm very pleased. I really like how easily the action adjusts via tilting the neck ... very useful for a guy who hasn't played upright in 15 years! I lowered the action for now, at least until my hand strength begins to return, at which point I'll really evaluate the sound and adjust the action again if needed. Tonight I'm going to change the strings from the stock Red Labels to the Corelli 370 Fortes that Bob G. sent me and see how they work.

I'm supposed to be gigging with it within a couple of weeks, so I'll report back once I have more to say!

Cheers,

Hey Jason,
Do you still have your bsx. I read you might be interested in selling and I am shopping. Does it have individual volume controls for each string?

Hey, saw this thread pop up...

I sold it about 6 months ago.

Yes, those models do have individual string volume adjusters, plus an overall internal volume gain. It was easy to get a seriously loud response from the instrument. It was beautiful in many ways...I just couldn't ever connect with it for some reason -- even after much practice and many gigs.

Good luck in your search!

i gotta start a new thread on this thang. i just got mine last week, arrived at 2 p.m. thursday and i flew out with it at 7 a.m. friday.

many threads on this site say how great the bass is and what a great guy dino is -- and these threads helped me make my decision to go with bsx. i just really feel the need to add another blurb of props for dino and the bsx allegro 4.

i was looking merely for something better than an acoustic bass guitar or a questionable rental upright when traveling and i got way more than that. this bass really kills, in an amp, direct into a pa, the thing sounds, amplified, more like an ub than when i amplify my ub! or at least like a better one than my kay! i have a feeling i'll be reaching for it for a lot of gigs, even when i can take the kay. no it doesn't replace a real ub, but when you gotta be frikkin loud or fit it in a car with 4 people, well...

i never liked eubs because they look kinda silly, imo, and i can't play a stick on a tripod, which is what alot of them feel like to me. this bass actually responds a little more like an upright as you play it (not completely, but not bad!) and on an endpin with the belly rest attached, it didn't take long to get used to. i still feel like i'm playing with at least a very similar stance and technique as when i play the real deal.

i can set the action anywhere i want in seconds with an allen wrench and by turning the knob that you unscrew to detach the neck; dissasembling it takes like 10 minutes. i fit the whole thing, in it's gigbag, into the skb freedom golf case snug and secure and it survived 4 plane rides in baggage in a long weekend.

i've barely gotten to even know the thing yet and i'm just so impressed with it i had to rant like a teenage girl/groupie.

and dino has been spectacular to work with; i begged him to get it to me in time for this trip and he did, despite a heavy post-namm workload -- then he called me when i got back to make sure all was ok! great company, great product.

Hey,
Thanks for the thread. I have a couple questions for ya tho.
1) When you say you "flew out" with it, I'm assuming you meant flying on an airplane. If this is so, did you take it on board as a carry on? If not, does it have a hard shell case availible. And How much extra did it cost to transport it on the airline, and finally, which airline did you fly?
2) Also, who did you buy it from, and how much did you pay it?
3) Finally, what amp do you play it through?

Sorry for being a pain, I've just been trying to do my homework on Travel basses for sometime. I'm looking for the best way to get me and a bass back and fourth accross the country.

Thanks!

hey farin.
i flew delta, yes an aeroplane ;-)
i checked the bass in baggage packed away in the skb freedom golf bag case that i bought myself. dino does have a hardshell case avail but it is heavy and cumbersome. this was ample protection, light and easy and NO OVERAGE CHARGES!!! HURRAY!! anyone can fly with golf clubs, so anything that fits in that case works. i had the neck wrapped up in a towel next to the body, which had the bridge bubblewrapped and shrinkwraped down flat. they were next to each other in a very specific way in the gig bag with a piece of foam and it just, i mean JUST fits in this golf clb case, which is about 6 inches too tall.
another tb-er uses a slighty larger golf case and has a whole neat system for flying, too. i'm just a beginner with it.

i bought it direct from dino, www.bsxbass.com. i got it for right around the $2,000 mark.

so far i played it at home just through an ampeg ba112 combo amp, no processing, on an outdoor stage direct through a large outdoor pa (it rocked) and direct through a little, crappy yamaha 6-channel bar pa system with evs for mains. i was breaking up the speakers a little when i got agressive but i turned down a little and it was fine. i had the mid up kinda high, the treble flatlined and the bass at a litle past flat on the bass's onboard eq.

can't wait to try more.

hope that helps, i don't mind it at all. i had all the same questions and read, read and bugged other people too!
tim

Congrats Tims on your new Allegro !:bassist:

I have the older "T" style, one of Dino's first ! Serial #4 . .
IMHO it's the Bartolini electronics that make these basses rock . .
The combination of Piezo and magnetic pups with the pre-amp on board lets you dial-in anything from a thin "stringy" piezo sound to a super fat pedal bass and everything in between.
Perfect for any loud amplified venue. ;)

nice! i agree, it's the whole bridge/bartolini thing that kills. roll up the bass and fill up the low end like fretless bass guitar, roll up the mids to sound like a rich upright, roll up the treble to sound the way most are used to hearing heavily amplified ubs.

very versitile, indeed and the allegro ALMOST looks like a real bass ;-)

another tb-er uses a slighty larger golf case and has a whole neat system for flying, too. i'm just a beginner with it.
I think Tim is talking about me. The only special things I did were to have a bag made for the neck, and another bag made for the bridge so I can pack it up faster. Glad to share how I did that.

I also really like my BSX. Plays great, both arco & pizz.

-Bruce Morris

Well in an effort to make my life easier I ordered an EUB. BSX was the only one I felt comfortable with and had one made to match or come close to the dimensions of my bass neck. The bass came, wrong color, most of the things I asked for were not respected and I was told if I was not happy I could return the instrument.
So Im not happy and now I just got told there will be a 10% restocking fee. Good times!

Since it is "NOT AS ORDERED," I would call and talk to someone in management. You fulfilled your part of the transaction they did not.

This happened to me once with an electric bass, they sent the lower priced version and charged me for the deluxe. The dealer never saw it my way. I called the overseas manufacturer who was so mad about it that they sent me what I wanted direct and billed the store.
GOOD LUCK!

HI!

Bsx Allegro is a good eub for salsa music???
Thank you

I don't know yet, but
(a) I am considering buying one, and I do play son/danzon/descargas, so I hope it works out.
(b) Good name you got there, Cachao is one of my idols!
:)

(b) thank you bongomania!

I find an used allegro but I don't have the possibility of playing it becouse its far!!!
I play son, rumba y descargas with a new Cuban - Italy ensamble "son natural" :-)

A tres player barrowed me a Cuban semi hollowed baby bass that belonged to a bassist of Los joven clasicos del son,
it' s very warm.

Excuse me my english please!!!!!

I searched and found a little bit of good tempting info.
But I'd like to know more before placing an order. I don't have the opportunity to try one before buying. Both MikeBass and Dino at BSX mentioned the Halfnote being less "fat" or "open" sounding than the Allegro, but by how much? Heck, my P-bass is super fat sounding, and it has less body and string length than the Halfnote (although the structure is clearly different). I'm more interested in the smaller size (to fit in a taxi) than the lower price, compared to the Allegro, but not if the tone isn't pleasingly full.

Thanks for any opinions you may have!

Bump! I am within a week or so of placing an order for a Halfnote, as I really like the looks of them compared to the other slim EUB's on the market, but I would really like to get some input from anyone who has used one. Positive, negative, whatever. Cheers!

I've recently ordered an Allegro A4, it won't be in for months, but was wondering what strings current Allegro users have had success with, particularly with arco. I currently use Corelli 370's or Pirastraso Obligato's, and am considering trying Thomastik Belcanto's with my Juzek. Has anyone tried these strings with the Allegro?

I have owned a half note acoustic electric upright for close to 2 years now. I believe I got one of the first ones. First of all, Dino at BSX is a great guy and second to none as far as customer service goes, you can usually get him on the phone and really goes the extra mile to make you happy.
This is my first EUB but I love it, sounds great, sets up easily and plays great. I wasn't completely impressed with some of the fit and finish (there are a couple drips of paint in spots) but overall it looks great. The pickup/preamp system could be a little hotter but actual acoustic volume is pretty generous for a slim body style.
I would highly reccomend a half note, I'm not sure what they cost present day but I feel the bang for the buck ratio is very high in the world of EUBs.
Keir

Sorry for the sidetrack, but.... Keir, are you related to luthier Tony Zemaitis?

Keir, thanks for that review! I actually ended up ordering an Allegro Acoustic instead, but I agree that Dino is great to work with. He's answered the phone each time I've called, and been entirely friendly and helpful.

Marcus, I certainly get asked that a lot but no he wasn't immediately related to me. Zemaitis is apparently a fairly common Lithuanian name. However, I feel a responsibilty to try my hand at building an instrument someday, hahaha.

Bongomania, I'm sure that the Allegro will really impress you. I've never played one but have total faith in Dinos work. The action on the halfnote was kind of high but I didnt adjust it for some time just so I could work on my ummm...upright muscles. When I did adjust it=butter!
Enjoy!

Is there anyone here from the UK who owns,knows where I can HEAR in the UK,knows where I can BUY in the UK,
a BSX allegro ?

From what I can see, and the reviews I've read it looks like this is the EUB for me. I'm considering ordering one (from the US) but since I haven't actually heard the thing yet that seems a bit rash.

So if you can suggest a way I might get to either hear one or play one, that would be much appreciated. Even if it's just that you know of a gigging band that uses one, I'd go to the gigs.

Pic below as memory jogger.

http://fr.audiofanzine.com/img/produits/normal/1/0/106394.jpg

Cheers, Andy

While I don't have an answer for you, I do know that Dino at BSX has contact info for all of his customers, and he arranged with a couple of guys in my area to talk to me about their basses. He may have somebody in your area who would let you come by and check it out, so give Dino a call!

Thanks for that. I have already mailed Dino, hoping that that was the case, but I haven't heard anything back yet.

Andy

Anyone know the best way to contact BSX ?

I mailed Dino at the weekend and have heard nothing back as yet. Anyone know if there's a reason, like, he's on holiday, or doesn't check email often ?

I'm hoping that I don't have to phone since a transatlantic call is not going to be cheap.

Cheers, Andy

I've once sent an email about BSX's distribution in Canada but never got any response.
Talk about customer service...

My experience has been nothing but positive when dealing with Dino at BSX or the Azola's. Email's all returned, and phone calls answered. I recommend that you just pick up the phone and call Dino. The best way is to talk to him directly. Depending on when you tried to contact him, I know he was away NAMM for a week, and he also was sick in bed for a week after NAMM.

Both BSX and Azola have excellent customer service!

Francois, the "lost" email and PM from Azola makes me wonder if in fact Dino did respond to you, and your email account just bounced his email? Because you have repeatedly told your story about him failing to respond to your one email, and how in your eyes that is a sign of bad customer service. Each time you tell that story, you are hurting his business. If it's true that he blew you off, then so be it. But what if he did not in fact blow you off?
Good idea!
I'll try to contact him again with a different email account.
(forget the phone; my spoken english is a nightmare" :) )

Regards,
François

P.S. Dino should get an account here on TB and stick to this forum...

There is probably some valid explanation for the lack of communication ... computer trouble, illness, family complications, natural disaster ... something of that nature. Most of the electric upright builders are small operations. ....
Thanks for that, Steve. I'll hang on for a bit.

Saw this thread and thought i'd reply,

Don't know if this of any use to you but theres a second hand allegro in "the violin shop" up in glasgow. I think its still there- i spent about a year eyeing it up wishing I had the money! :crying:

But I managed to get the older BSX flip bass on ebay for about £350- and wow.. what a bass! :smug:

... theres a second hand allegro in "the violin shop" up in glasgow. ...
:eyebrow: that's a long way from me ... but I'll definitely follow up, many thanks.

I just got a used bsx. Feels like and upright. Nice. When I use the inner trim pots to balance the strings for pizz, the D string kind of disappears for arco. Strange, any solutions, ideas?
Thanks.
Arnold

Can't help you, but my Pimentel EUB has no D string for arco, too. I'll play with the knobs to see if I can make something happen.

On the BSX, where are the pickups? The Pimentel has them under the feet of the bridge.

I would email dino he is really good at helping out.
sometimes he takes a while though.
I bought a bsx allegro off ebay and the arco is great.
d string too ,so something must be up with your bass

Note that NSD EUBs have a switch to choose between settings for arco and pizz. Perhaps, if you or a friend are electronically savvy, you could measure the resistance of the trimpot at the two best settings for you, and install two resistors and an external switch instead of the internal trimpot. Or go wild and put in two trimpots and a switch. :)

... theres a second hand allegro in "the violin shop" up in glasgow ...
Phoned them eventually (seems they're not quick on email either) and it turns out to be a solid body Allegro ... shame, otherwise I might have made a move on that.

Thanks, though.

I've playing my "DINO'"s Allegro BSX with Thomastik Spirocore strings for 4 years (mainly american standards and "salsa"). Im' very happy with it: powefull, great sound. Highly recommendable.
Bolo47
Hollywood, FL.

Good idea!
I'll try to contact him again with a different email account.
[...]
Sent that email on march 18, and still no answer...
Dino doesn't seem to care much about PR it seems!

Sent that email on march 18, and still no answer...
Dino doesn't seem to care much about PR it seems!
I've had trouble contacting him by mail, but he seems to respond quickly to voicemail messages.

I called BSX yesterday at (724) 378-8697 and Dino himself picked up the phone.

Tell him he has several emails waiting.

FWIW, customer service at BSX has been top notch in my experience. I emailed Dino with two different problems. One he responed to right away, the other I never heard from him. But when I have called, they have always been responsive. Dino himself answered many of the calls, and they always got back to me no matter who I spoke with. So, you might have to use that other technology, the telephone. Still, it would be nice if someone at BSX had the time to monitor emails and be on Talkbass .... :)

As for playing the BSX, I love it. It plays and handles well, and has a warm tone unamplified which carries over well to the amp. It is a worthy alternative to my carved upright bass when I can't take that one with me. I also tried the Eminence, which I did not like nearly as well (too nasal). For what its worth, my bass teacher agreed with my on my choice of the BSX over the Eminence. The Eminence does have a more solid neck attachment, but I've never had any problem with the BSX.

Hope that helps. Find a cheap UK phone card and give Dino a call.

Bruce Morris

Hope that helps. Find a cheap UK phone card and give Dino a call.

Bruce Morris
Thanks, that's what I've done so far (well, I've used skype ...same thing really).

At the moment I've got my hands full with a recently acquired (and old and tatty) DB ... but I think when (if) it comes to wanting to do gigs with an upright it will be an EUB and I may still call Dino.

Hi Guys!I intend to buy anEUB that has shorter scales,and I
really need inputs/advises from fellow bass players .If any of
you guys ever played the Mini Allegro(36") or the Half Notes (38")from BSX please share your experiences regarding the sound,ease of play,spacing,action,etc.Any views would be truly appreciated.
Thank you very much!
Roberto

Hey guys! Sorry for being the necromancer and raising this thread from it's grave, but I didn't want to start another thread.

I am really considering a EUB, since I don't really have the space / room / transportation for a URB, even though I want one really bad. I think the BSX basses seem good, but the Allegro is too expensive for me at this point. Is the Half-note good? Has anyone played it recently, how do they feel about it compared to the Allegro? Obviously the Allegro is sort of the best of the best I assume, but will the Half-Note be my money worth? Reason I'm asking is because I can't really find that many opinions on this bass. Please tell me what you think! Cheers! :)

Anyone have experience with either the ST (http://www.bsxbass.com/st.html) or SM (http://www.bsxbass.com/sm.html)

What interests me is both the price (well under $2K) and the fact that the neck can be modeled after a URB neck (w/ a heel, I do a lot of reading gigs and need the landmarks, so no NS for me, or is that not an issue?).

I've spoken with Dino @BSX about them(nice guy), but I'd like to hear from you cats. What do you think?

1. Sound?
2. Construction (is is gig-worthy)
3. Other worthy options in this price range (Ergo and Palatino really don't trip my trigger)
4. I'm primarily BG, but am finding that I NEED to play upright for the type of gigs I'm getting (and not getting). I'm currently borrowing an acoustic upright, but want the portability of an EUB.

Thanks in advance!

Mark

Okee Dokee, no takers on BSX. Well.....

Howsabout
1. Azola stick type basses?
2. NS Wav (does the lack of a neck heel bother you?)
3. Others I should look at?

Help a neophyte out!

HI
I currently own a BSX Allegro, Im not sure but I assume the model you are talking about has the same type of neck as an allegro. Its a well built instrument, with a good double bass type sound..The heel is like that of an upright, which helps for navigation when reading..

Roscoe,

I have a BSX ST with the upgraded pre-amp and one pickup per string. I've had it for about 5 years. It is really solid(I've dropped it numerous times), and sounds great. I do use a Yamaha AG-stomp for mic modeling and that does help the sound tremendously. The neck did come with a buzz on the G string at the G#, A, and Bb. That's the only complaint. I've tried the Yamaha and N.S. and they weren't even close to feeling as solid. Definitely worth the money and more.
I did put expensive orchestral stings on it and than also made a big difference.

Alun

I have a BSX (it's for sale). It feels a lot like an upright, sounds great and bows okay. I've never felt like I found an EQ setting that worked for both arco and pizz although I've found good sounds separately. I'm selling mine because it was my practice instrument and I'm looking for an upright to leave at home now. I've enjoyed mine.
Peace.
ASG

I have a BSX Allegro as well. I haven't used it in a bunch of years though. It's one drawback is it is a half-size bass. I don't know the mensur but it is around 39 inches which limits your string choices. I used Spirocore Solo gauge on mine without any problems with breakage.

The bass is tough as a tank and sounds pretty good. I actually stuck a Fishman BP-100 in the uncut bridge wings (Underwood style) and shimmed them with saxophone reeds which sounded a bit better than the built in pickup.

mark

Thanks for the great repsonses!!!!!

I have the Allegro Acoustic. It's a "normal" 3/4 scale, so it uses normal URB strings. One nice thing about ordering a new instrument from Dino is he can shape the neck however you like. I had him make mine a little more slender all around as I have short fingers. But he can make it fairly similar to whatever URB neck you are most comfortable with.

I've recently become the very happy owner of this BSX

Now I've just got to learn to play it :)

Congrats! I am enjoying (and still learning) mine as well.

http://www.ev-b.com/4gs/bsx2.jpg

Niiiiiice :)

That's close to my ideal .... antique kind of finish + fingerboard dots. When I first thought about EUBs I would have gone for a fiver too, but having tried to play upright, I've decided 4 is quite enough :)

has bsx fixed their quality issues? I had an early one and it had many problems and had to be returned several times for various mechanical and electrical issues.

I have only the one experience to go on, but mine has absolutely zero electronic issues (in fact, it's very resistant to ambient electrical/magnetic interference, unlike my other basses and preamps). Mechanically, it doesn't have any failings or problems per se, but the fit and finish are not that awesome up close. That's honestly my only disappointment, is that if you get up close you can see a bit of an amateurish quality to the fit and finish. But everyone who sees it from a few feet away is floored by how nice it looks, so I'm not really complaining. It feels solid and has no creaks, pings, odd angles, or any other sign of mechanical weak spots.

has bsx fixed their quality issues? I had an early one and it had many problems and had to be returned several times for various mechanical and electrical issues.

What issues, Jack? Mine is nearly 15 years old (it's not an Allegro though, obviously) and its been bomber for me on well over 100 gigs in the three years I've owned it.

Congrats! I am enjoying (and still learning) mine as well.

http://www.ev-b.com/4gs/bsx2.jpg

I have an Allegro 4 and love it. Sometimes I wish I had gotten the 5 string due to the scale length and my assumption that it would make a good sounding B... how do you like yours?

Well, I kind of think the low B is not worth all that much on this instrument. It is a lot more difficult to play in the higher registers compared to a 5-string BG, and bowing it is damn near impossible. The feel is tight, but the tone is not massive; although that may be due to me still being a DB noob. Another person commented in a recent thread that a different preamp may bring out the deep lows better than the stock Bart. Aside from liking a low B on my BG's, I mostly got the 5-string BSX because I was able to get it at a deep discount, and I observed that the 5'ers had better resale value than the 4's, in case the whole thing didn't work out for me. :rolleyes: However I like the instrument quite well overall, and I'll make the 5th string work for me one way or another as my playing improves.

I live in Pittsburgh not far from ALiquippa PA, where they make BSX EUBs. I was wondering if any of you have played both the BSX and the NS WAV4 -- which I now have -- and how they compare. Even if you have played a BSX and not the NS, let me know what you thought of the bass.

I live in Pittsburgh not far from ALiquippa PA, where they make BSX EUBs. I was wondering if any of you have played both the BSX and the NS WAV4 -- which I now have -- and how they compare. Even if you have played a BSX and not the NS, let me know what you thought of the bass.

I own a BSX Allegro acoustic. It is a fantastic instrument. If I were you I would definitely go see Dino at BSX and try out the basses. The electronics are very well done. The ebony board is very nice.

It ain't perfect but I'm quite happy with mine. The soundman at my church always requests that I bring it and not my Fender Precision. I think the arco tone is quite good but the pizz is where it shines. I wouldn't get it thinking it will nail an upright sound, I would think of it as a different instrument from an acoustic upright.

Yes...the Allegro is much closer to a DB than a stock WAV4, both in feel and tone. If you have that kind of local access, you can get 'pick of the litter' and have back-up service too. Sounds like a win.

I've played a couple of Allegros and own the older BSX stick bass in my avatar. I have only played a handful of BG gigs in the last few years since I got the BSX -- everyone wants me to bring it to my gigs. The only NS I've played was a 5 string CR Double series (w/mag + piezo). No way I'd even consider the Steinbergers. The stand arrangement and the lack of a neck joint both bugged the heck outta me.

Dino's a really cool guy. Go check his instruments in person if you have the chance.

PS: There's an Allegro in the TB classifieds right now, which I played a few weeks ago. IMHO, it's a nice deal if you can live with the cosmetic damage.

I've played a couple of Allegros and own the older BSX stick bass in my avatar. I have only played a handful of BG gigs in the last few years since I got the BSX -- everyone wants me to bring it to my gigs. The only NS I've played was a 5 string CR Double series (w/mag + piezo). No way I'd even consider the Steinbergers. The stand arrangement and the lack of a neck joint both bugged the heck outta me.

Dino's a really cool guy. Go check his instruments in person if you have the chance.

PS: There's an Allegro in the TB classifieds right now, which I played a few weeks ago. IMHO, it's a nice deal if you can live with the cosmetic damage.

+1 That bass is tempting but I can't justify another purchase.

I haven't tried a WAV4 but I am glad to hear your opinions on it

I have a T bass and I love it. Everyone who hears it loves it. I do use a mic modeler on it as I do a lot of bowing and it takes away that nasal piezo sound. Get the bridge that has a pickup under each string. It is really useful. I ordered the 3 band pre with it as well and that is voiced really nicely. My neck does have a couple of bum notes(G# and A in 1st pos. G string) but if you can actually go there and try some of Dino's instuments then you're all set. I tried the NS and the Yamaha and this blows them away. I suffered with the strings that came with it for awhile but put on Corelli's and have been very happy.

I have an older BSX that is pretty nice. I don't play it much because it sounds more like a really nice fretless bass guitar than an upright to my ear. I would rather not have to deal with the larger instrument and the longer scale if it isn't going to sound like an upright.

I do use a mic modeler on it as I do a lot of bowing and it takes away that nasal piezo sound.

I'd be interested to hear more about that mic modeler, Alun, the brand name for a start.

I'll go along with a lot of what's been said already about the BSX Allegro. I have the acoustic model and I got it because it was the closest I'd heard to a real upright sound. This was after trying out many EUBs including NS CRs/WAVs, Eminences, an Aria (I think) a Palatino and probably a few more, and not being happy with the sound.

I suspect the Allegro Acoustic has potential for being mic'ed too ... seems to me it has more of an acoustic sound when not amplified or when amplified at low volumes, as opposed to using headphones. (Haven't used it at volume yet).

Andy

I suspect the Allegro Acoustic has potential for being mic'ed too ... seems to me it has more of an acoustic sound when not amplified or when amplified at low volumes, as opposed to using headphones.

+1, I strongly prefer the ambient sound of mine played un-amplified over the sound conveyed by the pickup, and have been considering attaching a small condenser mic over one of the F holes.

+1, I strongly prefer the ambient sound of mine played un-amplified over the sound conveyed by the pickup, and have been considering attaching a small condenser mic over one of the F holes.

This looks like this might be a good solution. LINK (http://www.gollihurmusic.com/product/1437-GOLDEN_BULLET_MICROPHONE_FOR_UPRIGHT_BASS.html)

Dino is a gem of a guy and it's cool to visit his shop.

I owned a top-o-the-line Allegro Acoustic a few years ago.

Awesome instrument in how it plays...I just couldn't get used to the tummy rest. I wish it would have been on a tripod actually! This was a pretty big instrument...and heavy too.

I also briefly owned the NS. Great feel for such an inexpensive bass -- fun to play -- but the electronics sounded terrible to me. No preamp or amp combo I tried worked for me.

I will say I am still looking for a smaller, more portable EUB for flights & travel. BSX does have some interesting mini-models. If I get the cash I will pay Dino another visit at least.

I really hope to visit CA someday and try out all the Clevingers and see what they are all about...

I've also read good things about the Azolas.

I use the Yamah AG-Stomp. It is a mic modeler made for acoustic gtrs with a feedback exterminator and has delay/chorus and verb. It also has four band parametric eq.
There are three mic choices and a choice between close and distant micing.
This box transforms the sound from the usual nasal piezo to a more airy sound.
The essence of the bass still comes through and it does respond to your playing.
It's not like having a synth pedal that does "acoustic" at all. Does it sound just like an acoustic bass? No. Somewhere in between, but it does the greatest good when bowing.
The bottom octave with fingers still sounds like an EUB. Just a very expensive one!
This thing is also a great pre-amp and I use it for my electrics as well.
They don't make them anymore but Zoom does make a pedal called the A1 that does a similar sort of thing. I haven't tried it but I'm sure they are available at GC.
I've never seen anyone else using one. They were expensive(650). It is also built like a tank. Worth looking out for.

I use the Yamah AG-Stomp. It is a mic modeler made for acoustic gtrs with a feedback exterminator and has delay/chorus and verb.

{SNIP}

They don't make them anymore but Zoom does make a pedal called the A1 that does a similar sort of thing.

Looks like THIS (http://www.magicstomp.com/acoustic/) is the latest version. Anyone know if it's going to be as good ?

I must have an experiment with my boss AC-2 too ... though I think that's just EQ rather than mic simulation.

My guitar player uses it and it does sound good. I haven't tried it back to back with mine yet but I might borrow it tonight and get back to you. He says it is difficult to program although you can do it by computer but he has a mac and that doesn't work.
PC presumably will. I had the same problem with my J-Station. Bad mad support.
Both these pedals do ad appreciable noise btw. It's part of the "air" that is created around the sound. Presumably the process is the same.

Alun

FYI, I merged all the BSX EUB threads to make up this megathread, and stuck it at the top with the other megathreads!

Enjoy!
François
TB mod

There's been a lot of comments about the sound of the acoustic Allegro - - Can anyone comment on the solid version? I'm interested in playing pizz only. Thanks --

I'm finding the following helps for a more upright jazz acoustic pizz sound:

1) medium high to high action
2) playing high on the neck (closer to the nut)
3) using "arco" strings like Corelli 380s
4) eq'ing the bass by pulling back on mids and a bit on treble
5) getting more of my hand/arm into the plucking

I'm using an Allegro Acoustic

Any other setups work for y'all?

Since this is the BSX megathread I figured I'd mention that I'm considering selling my BSX Half Note. It's an acoustic electric model and one of the earlier ones that Dino built. Theres more info in the Classifieds.

KZ

Hi folks

I am happy to say that I am going to buy an "Allegro" acoustic today directly from Dino in the color of tobacco burst.

Thanks to Dino that is very good person and thanks to talkbass people that let me discover BSX

Took delivery of a used Lefty Allegro hollow body removable neck version. I am in the middle of designing/building a lefty EUB for my own use, but this was too good to pass up..... All set up and all strung up, it is very nice, plays like a charm. There is some minor hum/buzz in the preamp, but I'll get that sorted fairly soon. Just played it through my Demeter VTBP in my studio through the studio monitors. I am a lazy bastard, and tried playing it without the pole extended, played it sitting down, very comfortable though my leg brushes against the controls on the back once in a while. If I have a grouse it is the location of these controls.

Anyway, I am impressed, and the in the midst of building my own EUB, I will redesign my removable neck joint. This one has a simple bolt, no dovetailed woodwork, seems to work very well. I was going to cut a dovetail neck joint slot for added 'security'. I suppose my EUB project can take a while longer .....

I've been playing a BSX Series 2000 for years and years now - not my primary axe but from time to time I use it extensively. Another nod to Dino, who went thru it for me recently and even installed a new 'bullet' pickup for me, no charge - above & beyond.
My question - I need a good stand for it - I saw one mentioned way back - is it Mr. Passinwind? - any ideas gratefully accepted.
thanks

As per Zemaitis's post above, he sold his Half Note and I'm the buyer. I trolled on this thread (and the other EUB threads) a ton before making my decision, and I'm sure I'll have some more questions for you guys before I'm through ;-).

I'm making the transition from a fretless semi-acoustic bass so I'm sure I'll have a learning curve to get through as I'm more a multi-instrumentalist than a true bass player. But I like a challenge so I'm excited to get started.

Thanks to y'all for lots of good info on here and I'll let you know how things go when it arrives and I get the neck back on and get it all set up.

What cases are available for the BSX Allegro. I see some guys are using golf cases.

I’ve just played the BSX Allegro in public for the first time, at a London blues jam. First time I played any upright in public actually. I think I did the right thing holding off on this for 15 months. Not only did nobody remark on the bum notes (there were a few) but I lost count of how many people, friends and strangers, made a point of coming over to tell me how great it sounded.

Feeling pretty chuffed, actually :)

My mild concerns over the sound evaporated (I talked about miking it a few messages back in this thread). Despite taking with me a Pandora PX4B all set up to knock out loads of top-end, I stupidly forgot the extra cable and so had to plug it straight into the PA. It sounded great.

Good result all round I think.

Andy

What cases are available for the BSX Allegro. I see some guys are using golf cases.

Burner -

Something happened with my notifications and I didn't see your post from way back when, so sorry for the delay. (And congrats to Big Beat Nut on a successful first outing.)

Almost any hard shell golf case will work, as long as it is big enough. Take your Allegro to the golf shop and try before you buy. You'll have a lot of interested people looking at you - maybe you'll get a gig out of it! :D

I use an SKB Staff Case. The dimensions of the Staff Case have changed since I bought mine, but it should still work. I chose the SKB brand because its one of the best out there. They also have a no-hassle replacement guarantee if your bag is damaged in transit - which I had to use (fortunately no damage to the bass) courtesy of TSA.

When you load the Allegro into the golf case, take the neck off the bass. Put the Allegro into the gig bag, then fold down the neck area. Put the folded gig bag into the golf case. Then put the neck into the golf case.

You will need some way to protect the neck as it travels. You can wrap it in foam every time, which is what I used to do, but that takes forever. I had a custom soft case made for my neck. Makes packing very quick.

Needless to say, you will also need to take the bridge off the base and secure it to the body so the wires for the pickup (permanently inside the bridge for you non-Allegro readers) don't get yanked. Dino recommends wrapping clear plastic wrap (the kind movers use - get it at U-Haul) around the body and the bridge as it lays flat against the bass. I found this tiresome, not to mention environmentally wasteful. I designed a soft pouch for the bridge with long straps, Velcro on the ends, to secure the pouch to the body. Had a friend make it for me. Works great.

One last tip: Find a thick piece of blown Styrofoam and cut it to fit the bottom of your case. This may help protect the bass, but its really there to protect the bottom of the case. I found that the end pin was putting too much pressure on a single point at the bottom of the case, which was deforming the metal rim and making it close poorly. The Styrofoam will spread out the load (much like the bottom of a golf bag that these cases were made to carry). I used packing tape on the entire piece of Styrofoam to keep it from cracking and crumbling. Also gives it more strength due to the "exoskeleton" effect.

I can pack my bass in about 15 minutes. The longest part of this process is securing the strings so they don't come off the pegs using Velcro cable ties from Office Depot. Everything else packs very quickly. The golf case is not oversize luggage, nor is it overweight, so no special charges. Of course you get a second bag charge these days, but that should end when the airlines get back on their feet.

If anyone wants photos of any of this, just ask. Hope this is helpful.

I have a question for allegro users out there. Did Dino ever start selling flight cases again? Also, I have an older solid body model of the Allegro that I bought off of ebay a couple of years ago. I was gigging quite frequently with this bass, but the knob that holds the leg in place stripped out and no longer works. Are there tripods out there for Allegro's? If anyone can help me out, I would be grateful.

Hi For a flight case get an skb deluxe golf club case.
I use it to tour ALL the time ant it is only 75 bucks.
funny I just had had my endpin strip too.
I am planning to fix it myself though
J

I have a question for allegro users out there. Did Dino ever start selling flight cases again? Also, I have an older solid body model of the Allegro that I bought off of ebay a couple of years ago. I was gigging quite frequently with this bass, but the knob that holds the leg in place stripped out and no longer works. Are there tripods out there for Allegro's? If anyone can help me out, I would be grateful.

I don't know if Dino is selling flight cases again. Why don't you call and ask him? His older flight cases didn't require removing the neck. A convenience, but they were much larger and heavier as a result, which also results in oversize and overweight charges. I also use an SKB golf bag flight case. See my previous post.

As for fixing the stripped out threads at the end pin, Dino might be able to sell you that part. I'm not looking at my Allegro right now (away for Thanksgiving), but as I recall, that whole assembly is easily removed. Dino could just send you a new one and you can install it.

If you want to fix it and don't have the know-how, take it to a good bike shop. Not a junk bike shop - look for a shop that sells Trek and/or also deals in custom bicycles. They will have the tools to re-cut the threads for you. You will likely wind up with a larger diameter screw, which means you will have to look for a screw with an add-on plastic head that you can turn by hand. The bike shop might be able to help you with that too. They might have parts from a Yakima or Thule roof rack, or a quick release seat post, or other similar item, that has a small hand tightened screw with a head that can be turned by hand.

You can also get this done at any standard machine shop, but since these guys mostly work on cars, they might be a little brutish with your instrument, and it will likely cost you more. But if you can find a musician at the machine shop, it might work out fine.

Good luck!

Dino told me he has some new cordura gig bags in stock. The hard cases are quite expensive, about $600 or so.... I am going to see if I can get one built by flightcase warehouse in UK, or make one myself --- so that I don't have to take the neck off the Allegro for local gigs. I find that taking the neck off and on, requires some considerable time for the strings to stretch and settle - you are constantly tuning up to pitch and this can be quite bothersome on a quick set up and go to gig.

I suppose if I travel by air, I would take the neck off and use a hard golf case which I have.

Hi For a flight case get an skb deluxe golf club case.
I use it to tour ALL the time ant it is only 75 bucks.
funny I just had had my endpin strip too.
I am planning to fix it myself though
J

I checked out the SKB deluxe golf case online. Do you put your BSX in a gig bag before throwing into the hard case? Foam? Just wondering. I will be calling Dino this week. If I can fix my bass, I would like to get a tripod stand for it; he's got them on his site now.

Hi I keep the body in the gig bag and wrap the neck in a fleece blanket
Jflo

Hi I keep the body in the gig bag and wrap the neck in a fleece blanket
Jflo

Ok. On top of it. Might I ask if there was a secret to getting the case for 75 bucks? Everywhere I've looked online has it for 150 at least.

I see you are in belgium so the price will vary with shipping exchange rate and import duty.
But I see them on Ebay for around 75$ USD often.
the dollar is weak now so maybe you can get a deal
Jflo

Hey guys...

New to the forum and I need some advice!

I'm looking into getting a T-Bass BSX to use for salsa/latin music.

I hear people saying that the T-Bass sounds nasal when playing piezo. I'm looking for that round, latin tone too - is it worth it to buy this bass.

Someone is selling this for $1000 CDN (I guess $920 USD)

What do you guys think?

get an allegro . My opinion is tht a t bass ia a fretless electric on a stand

If you read the threads here about the Ampeg Baby Bass (the standard that all other EUB's are judged by for Latin music) you'll find people saying that it is not super easy to get that tone with most EUB's because piezo pickups just don't sound anything like the old Ampeg pickup. I agree with jflo that the Allegro is a better bet, both for sound and for looks that are closer to the Baby Bass, but even then it's not the same animal.

I wouldn't buy the T-bass unless you play it and it sounds right to you in your own hands.

Dino told me he has some new cordura gig bags in stock. The hard cases are quite expensive, about $600 or so.... I am going to see if I can get one built by flightcase warehouse in UK, or make one myself --- so that I don't have to take the neck off the Allegro for local gigs. I find that taking the neck off and on, requires some considerable time for the strings to stretch and settle - otherwise you are constantly tuning up to pitch and this can be quite bothersome on a quick set up and go to gig.

I suppose if I travel by air, I would take the neck off and use a hard golf case which I have.

I would agree that taking the neck off is something to be done only when you must - like flying. But am I missing something? Why carry your Allegro to local gigs in a flight case? Isn't the gig bag adequate? Or are you in a big band with lots of roadies who might mistreat your instrument? In which case you are far more famous and successful than I am. :D

Ok. On top of it. Might I ask if there was a secret to getting the case for 75 bucks? Everywhere I've looked online has it for 150 at least.

That is correct. The Allegro body goes inside the gig bag, then the gig bag, neck part folded over, goes into the SKB case. Then you put the neck, wrapped in something protective, into the SKB case on top of the gig bag. I got tired of the blanket routine for the neck and had a padded Cordura bag custom made for it. But either way works fine as long as the neck is protected inside the flight case.

jflojazz is giving you good advice.

I would agree that taking the neck off is something to be done only when you must - like flying. But am I missing something? Why carry your Allegro to local gigs in a flight case? Isn't the gig bag adequate? Or are you in a big band with lots of roadies who might mistreat your instrument? In which case you are far more famous and successful than I am. :D

Actually I want the bass in a hardcase because I carry the PA speakers and racks, stands, bass gear and my tux etc in the back of my car; and with my current pianist's situation I carry his gear as well, so there 's a lot of heavy stuff and good as cordura is I don't really want to risk damage.

I expect to get a trailer for the PA and rest of it so the gig bag would work in that regard, it can ride in the car without risk of some hard metal case/object impacting on it at force and at an angle to cause damage.

Hey -- I just searched this thread for the "Flip" bass. Anybody have any experience with one of these? Dino's shop is just up river from the Burgh -- and I'm still looking around for a compact EUB. Might have to pay him a visit.

To add to this -- I just called Dino yesterday and had a nice chat with him.

As for cases, he said he spoke to some folks out at NAMM about a newer, lighter weight and less costly flight case -- so you might want to give him a call to see how that ends up.

I was speaking to him about the Flip basses and he said they were a really poor seller -- seems not too many people are really interested in a 34" bowable fretless bass on a tripod.

I was very interested to hear he's having a great deal of interest in the Allegro Half Note -- and that he's even making a slightly more compact model with a 38" scale.

In discussing travel & case issues, he said he's been looking in to the SKB style golf cases as an option for the Half Note -- which may not need to be taken apart for travel.

I've got a gig up past his way in late March and am planning another visit to his shop. He said he's starting up a new batch of Allegros & such and that he may very well have a few done for me to try -- very cool.

So -- anybody here currently playing a Half Note solid or acoustic? Thoughts? I really like the look of that Half Note Solid on the V stand...

Hope you folks don't mind me jumping in here with some info ... this is actually Jill writing, Steve's in the shop working on instruments, as usual : )

Steve and Dino had some great conversations, during last week's NAMM show, about the evolving needs of bass players, especially the ongoing travel issues. It was great watching them with their heads together. The flight case solution Dino mentioned to Jason is something Steve tracked down, and that we've been modifying to suit our own purposes. Steve thought Dino could eventually find a use for it in his own way as well. So, if you want to see what it's all about, it's shown on our home page.

Philosophical note -
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Steve has a lot of respect for Dino, and definitely would prefer that anyone who doesn't choose to play one of our basses decides to head in Dino's direction ... another guy who is building his basses here in the US, and really cares about each bass and each bassist who joins his family. It's frustrating for Steve and Dino to see people buying those factory-made Chinese basses, considering the impact on our economy and the environment, not to mention conditions for the workers actually making those "products" ... it's primarily the industry "middle men" who are profiting in those situations. Bassists need to really start thinking about those things. Luckily, for now, there are still enough bassists who seem to appreciate the art and passion Steve and Dino invest in what they do for you ... always trying to make things better, and easier for the player.
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- Jill Azola

I bought my knutson messenger bass back in 93 because it fit in most planes' overhead compartments. since those halcyon days of air travel it's become ridiculous even getting an eub on board sometimes. I've got an skb golf case that john knutson sells and it holds the bass sturdily. the only problem I've ever had with it is when baggage handlers are both inefficient and careless if they take out the bass and don't repack it the same way it was packed (i.e. with the headstock end sitting in the protective cone on inside of case). At this point I have completely given up even getting an EUB inside the cabin. I check it every time in it's case and sometimes get charged extra, sometimes not.
IMHO a smaller scale instrument is not the answer. I'd bring a Fender if that were the case. I would like to continue to see instruments being built that approximate AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE what we love about the double bass. I think R&D is better spent on making the whole unit (bass and case) more travel friendly. In a perfect world it would be able to fit inside the overhead compartment. In my world I'd settle for an instrument I don't have to fold up; that has a light, sturdy, manageable case that is easy to get up and down stairs with; can fit easily into cabs and that sounds good in various types of music. The knutson has pretty much done that except casewise. The case stands about 5 feet tall, doesn't always fit inside a cab (need a Lincoln town car trunk or minivan). It has wheels but pulling it while carrying your bags can be awkward if you have a long walk. The whole unit, bass and case is where I think the future lies.:)

Hi guys,

Too much sustain and no real acoustic "kick" or "boom" if you will to be mistaken for an acoustic.
I play a DeArmond Ashbory which has the "boom" but not the centered tone which comes with the greater string length.
So its a trade off. Thanks

NYK
Drug Intervention Massachusetts (http://www.drug-intervention.com/massachusetts-drug-intervention.html)

I would like to know more about the BSX series 2000 EUB that I have inherited from my uncle's estate. Since I am the bass player in the family, I guess I got this by default! I don't know too much about it other than it is a five string, white EUB. When were these made? Can I find the year on the instrument somewhere? What did they tend to cost new and what is market value now? If anybody wants to make me an offer, I would definitely consider it as I don't think that this instrument is my cup of tea. It comes with a gig bag.
Thanks!
Cliff

Hi Cliff.
Sorry to hear about your uncle.
Did you look on the BSX website?
http://www.bsxbass.com/home.html

If you decide to sell it, please post your ad on the Classifieds, not here.
http://www.talkbass.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=144

Best regards,
François
EUB forum co-mod.

After searching through 8 pages of this thread, I'm not sure why my original post was moved to the end of this thread, because it did not in any fashion assist me in my questions. Yes, I searched all 8 pages and found one reference to the BSX Series 2000 model, but it had nothing to do with my questions. Yes, I went to their website before I even thought that I would post to here. I also ran multiple searches on the BSX Series 2000 and came up pretty empty. That is why I turned to this outlet. Now my post has been buried at the end of 8 pages that nobody will see. Not exactly what I had in mind. I am aware of how to sell on this forum as I have sold two basses here already and have followed the forum rules to a "T".FWIW
Cliff

After searching through 8 pages of this thread, I'm not sure why my original post was moved to the end of this thread, because it did not in any fashion assist me in my questions.
Hi Cliff.
Simply because this thread is all about the BSX EUB.
If you look at the forum index, you'll see we have several similar megathreads for different EUB brands.

Yes, I searched all 8 pages and found one reference to the BSX Series 2000 model, but it had nothing to do with my questions. Yes, I went to their website before I even thought that I would post to here. I also ran multiple searches on the BSX Series 2000 and came up pretty empty. That is why I turned to this outlet. Now my post has been buried at the end of 8 pages that nobody will see. Not exactly what I had in mind.
Depends on how you configure your settings on TB.
My own config is to see the newest posts first, and the oldest at the end.
You can change that if you wish.
Being harsh is not the best way to get help either.

I am aware of how to sell on this forum as I have sold two basses here already and have followed the forum rules to a "T".FWIW
Cliff

I'm sorry you didn't find the answers to your question.
Maybe someone will jump in.
And did you try to email or phone Dino directly?
(I've tried email in the past but he never replied so calling him is probably the best way to get in touch)

Regards,
François
EUB forum co-mod.

Now my post has been buried at the end of 8 pages that nobody will see.

I sympathise, your question would have been seen more clearly in it's own thread with it's own subject. Maybe all these megathreads should be replaced with specialist sub-forums ? It's next to impossible to find the interesting post you once read in (say) the Palatino megathread or, even worse, the Lakland Owners Club which gets a new megathread about every 15 days I think.


And did you try to email or phone Dino directly?
(I've tried email in the past but he never replied so calling him is probably the best way to get in touch)

I agree with Monsieur Blais. Dino was hard to get in touch with by email, but is quick to respond to voicemails (if you have to leave one) and is super helpful on the phone.

Andy

Dino sent me email yesterday because I need a new tummy rest
sometimes I also get behind on my email
thanks
Robert vanlane

I have a 5 string BSX that used to be my main jazz axe long ago. I now play acoustic for jazz and classical, and Fender for rock, blues and pop. One style I don't play is authentic Latin; Salsa or Afro-Cuban.It is the one style I am least familiar with,and being that I live in the Bronx I think I should remedy that.
So, is it possible to get anything close
to the Latin thunk on my BSX by choosing the right strings? The axe has an intrinsic low action long sustain mwah sound with a little twang. Right now I have Helicore orchestras with a Jargar Forte low B. The right strings need to be heavy, as it plays with too loose tension due to the geometry of the string angles of neck and tailpiece. Thanks all.

So, is it possible to get anything close
to the Latin thunk on my BSX by choosing the right strings? The axe has an intrinsic low action long sustain mwah sound with a little twang. Right now I have Helicore orchestras with a Jargar Forte low B.

You get long sustain and mwah even with these strings?
Maybe your action is set too low.
(or the fingerboard's scoop is too straight)
Typically, orchestral strings do provide a shorter sustain and more thump.
A full Jargar Forte set is an option.
However, raising the action could already be very helpful.

Not much sustain on that Forte B string.The rest, yes. I was describing the intrinsic sound of the instrument, the result of many factors. Strings and string height are variables worth changing. Not so the fingerboard. I happened to score a little Latin Jazz gig last night, a good opportunity to try it out. Everyone liked the sound. Bridge is due for a raise, for sure. I'm thinking Jargar Forte set, also. Francois, you are right on. I would still like to hear from the collective TB wisdom.

I would like to know more about the BSX series 2000 EUB that I have inherited from my uncle's estate. Since I am the bass player in the family, I guess I got this by default! I don't know too much about it other than it is a five string, white EUB. When were these made? Can I find the year on the instrument somewhere? What did they tend to cost new and what is market value now? If anybody wants to make me an offer, I would definitely consider it as I don't think that this instrument is my cup of tea. It comes with a gig bag.
Thanks!
Cliff

Hi Cliff,

Just happened upon this post. My series 2000 bass, a 4 string model, is ~16 years old and it cost me 900 dollars including the standard BSX gig bag here on Talkbass around 5 years ago.

I see newer and (presumably) more desirable Allegros going for around $1000-1200 used occasionally around here. Dino told me that he would upgrade the pickups and bridge to what's in the Allegro for a pretty reasonable price, but I actually like my bass fine as-is, and prefer it to the Allegros I've played.

Feel free to PM me with any further questions. And as you probably have found out by now: call Dino, don't email.

OK so I am not really following the thread but since it is the BSX thread I thought I'd say here that I just bought (should have it in hand by Monday) by first up-right. It is a new tobacco burst BSX Allegro. I had intended on spending a great deal more on a normal accoustic (and in time I will) but this seemed like a great way to get into the up-right and not need to buy a new car!

So I am finally about to join the world of up-rights. I think I will enjoy the challenges it will bring, and yes, I have already located a very experienced teacher!