Bass for the buck Laminate new American std or Upton Hybrid

PortlyCynic · #1 03-13-2007, 03:50 PM

As I said in my first post I am looking for an upright and my searches online and the posts on this site have me interested in the New american standard laminates and the Upton Hawkes Hybrid. I had hoped to spend less than 5,000 so both these basses are well within my range. I will be playing a 50/50 mix of pizz and arco. I am wondering which bass would be a better buy laminate New American or the hybrid Upton.

Thanks

M Ramsey · #2 03-14-2007, 05:56 AM

All my experience has been with laminate basses. I've played a Shen Willow (all solid) bass and would love to own one, but with the hauling, the temperature changes, the outside playing in heat & humidity that I participate in, this dosen't seem to be a good fit, for me at least.

I'd love to own a good carved bass but my wife hasn't won the NC Education Lottery yet. When she does, I'll get my pick.

I have 2 old American Standards and I love the tone and volume I get from them. I have played the New Standards and they are very good basses. With that being said, my pick would be the New Standard over the Upton Hybrid. But, then again, my tastes and playing environments may differ greatly from yours.

The Upton Hybrid might be a very good choice for you if you are going to be playing most of your gigs indoors in controlled environs. I wouldn't trust myself with a carved top bass in the heat and humidity of NC bluegrass festivals.

I hope this helps,

glivanos · #3 03-14-2007, 06:35 AM

I tried out an Upton Hawkes laminate at Gary's store last year with Dominant strings on it.

Very impressive. Nice growly sound and lots of volume.

jallenbass · #4 03-14-2007, 06:35 AM

The Upton Hawkes fully carved is around $5000. Throw that into the mix.

coreybass · #5 03-19-2007, 07:18 PM

I just got an Upton Hawkes Laminate and am really happy with it. You can read my thoughts on it here:

Got My New Upton Hawkes

Hope that helps.

uptonbass · #6 03-19-2007, 09:27 PM

I think Corey meant to give this link:

http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showth...01#post3953501

damonsmith · #7 03-20-2007, 12:19 PM

If you want to play 50% arco and have $5000 to spend there is no reason to even consider a laminate bass unless it is a Czech ease for flying. Laminate basses are a waste of time and money for anyone interested in the bow.
It is even possible but rare to luck into an older European instrument in the price range.