Anybody play a half size that isn't a half size dude

[michaelc]

I searched for this but didn't see anything exactly like this.

I found a deal on a really nice half size bass locally, but I am not a half size dude. I'm about six feet tall and 300 lbs, so it might look stupid, but it would fit in my car better, and it might be an easier transition for me from the bass guitar due to the shorter scale length.

So, is it reasonable to play a half size bass for the reasons mentioned above?

I mean my options are pretty much solid wood 1/2 size or ply 3/4

[Fletcher Lanning]

It's not necessarily BAD to play a 1/2 size. but it will have less volume and it will be more difficult for you to learn new fingerings when you eventually move to a larger instrument.

Also, you would have to get a very long endpin to bring it up to a proper height.

Other than that, an instrument is an instrument so, if it feels good and SOUNDS good, I don't see anything particularly wrong with it. Personally, I'd probably go for the plywood 3/4 if it is not a piece of junk (there ARE good laminated basses out there).

[MR PC]

I think it's reasonable to play the 1/2 size bass for the reasons you mentioned. If it's a nice solid bass for a good price, take a serious look at it. If the 3/4 bass is available, try to audition them both at the same time.

Having a local teacher help you choose wouldn't be a bad idea either.

As far as having trouble with the fingering when moving to a larger instrument.......that really depends on the individual. You just have to try some different instruments to know. Playing the upright requires different left and right hand technique than the bass guitar.

I sometimes play a 1/4 size Kay Bass with a 35.5" scale length, not so different from my Fender basses (34" scale). It has a big sound, and puts out plenty of volume. I find the 1/4 size harder to play in tune sometimes than my other uprights that range from 41" to 43-1/2" inch scale. Sometimes I swear that I need to stretch further on the 1/4 size Bass to make the next note than I do on the regular 3/4 size!

[AMJBASS]

Lately I have been playing a lot on an Eastman 1/2 size DB. It is easy to transport as I can put it in a compact car. It doesn't have a lot of acoustic volume though(especially in the low end department). Thumb position is very sweet sounding however. It needs to be amplified to be effective.

[WalterBush]

I like my half size, and chose it for tone over the 3/4s that were available to me at the time.

I'm about 5'7 and weigh 155 right after the holidays, so the bass probably looks a little more natural on me. I have to practically stand on a footstool to play a 7/8 comfortably.

It meets my immediate needs, fits in my car easily with the passenger seat down, and once I'm plugged in, no one notices a lack of bass projection. I'd say go for it if you like the 1/2 better. I play an electric that is absolutely huge on me, but hardly anyone ever says anything. I don't know why anyone would mention appearances to you.