Advice on buying my first DB?

[jillofallbasses]

Hello all! I came to this forum in search of advice, as I am looking into buying my own upright bass. I actually started on violin (heinous, i know), which I played from 3rd grade until my freshman year of high school, when I switched to bass. Since then, I've skyrocketed to the top of my school along with a friend and fellow violin convert.

Now, as a junior, I'm seriously considering purchasing an instrument after receiving a bow for a Christmas present (pending private teacher's incoming shipment from a local specialty strings store). I currently play in orchestra and Jazz Band, though I would say Orchestral music is my primary focus, as there are too many other factors (read: electronics) involved in Jazz, so I prefer to use a mix of my school's pickup-equipped upright and my own Fender Jazz bass guitar.

Other info hmm... I play a 3/4 size and plan on staying that way. I'm a girl but hand size has never been a problem. Not sure if it matters in this decision but I use French grip (German makes me feel like I'm on the edge of carpal tunnel). Seeing as I am paying for this myself, I can't afford to spend more than $3000 on it (a lot of years of birthday money right there :P). I have one of my school's laminates at home, but I play a nicer carved at school, which I prefer greatly (plus it has a great low E sound that is just awesome). I don't know if carved is out of my price range, though maybe someone could offer advice on that.

Thank you for reading through that, I await your responses!

If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

-IZ

[Eric Hochberg]

Jill, your question has been asked and answered hundreds of times before here. I suggest that you read all of the newbie links on the subject, do some of your own searches, and then come back to ask questions.

Welcome to talkbass!

[fdeck]

Welcome to TB. It's cool that you have the discipline to put away 3000 bucks. A bass is a fitting reward for that.

While you look for a bass, you might think about pulling the old switcheroo, and bring the carved bass home. Given the choice, I'd prefer the better instrument for my own private practicing, where I can really hear what's going on and focus on my bowing.

3000 is a bit on the shy side for a decent carved. A hybrid is also an option worth considering.

[jillofallbasses]

Eep! It seems I misunderstood some stuff as far as how things usually work... Sorry about that, but thank you for your posts anyways!

That's a good idea! Though I think it's worth mentioning that the one I have at school is nearly brand new, and about a week after it was purchased I noticed a deep dent (so that there's now somewhat of a hole in the wood, not sure how to explain it) in the side, as if a freshman cellist had attacked it with a chair leg. Not sure if this would affect the sound quality, but...

How much do you think a decent carved usually is? I plan on studying music in college so this bass will be with me for quite a while.

Again thanks for all your help and sorry for the misunderstanding.

[Eric Hochberg]

No misunderstanding at all, Jill. When you get a grumpy regular like me to respond, that's what sometimes happens!

You should consult with your teacher about how to buy a bass. If you tell us your location, someone may have suggestions for shops to visit.

[jillofallbasses]

Ah, of course... I live in California, in the South Bay Area - San Jose-ish. The closest specialty string store I know of is Kamimoto Strings, which mainly specializes in violin, viola, and cello, though they also sell basses. My school bought the most recent three basses (including the one I use) from there. Happen to know of anywhere else? :]

[Mesa]

Steve Swan sells lots of basses up the peninsula. Posts here, great website.

[fdeck]

Check the Classifieds, I think there's a hybrid Shen for sale in CA.

[Matt Ides]

Originally Posted by Mesa

Steve Swan sells lots of basses up the peninsula. Posts here, great website.

He has a good selection and in your price range.

[michaeln]

I *HIGHLY* recommend giving Steve Swan a call. Make an appointment and go visit him. He will treat you right, and all of his basses are properly set up by Northern California's best luthiers before you leave his shop with them.

http://www.steveswanguitars.com/