Best DB under $2000?

[bigfiddle]

I will be buying my 1st DB this year. Would like some opinions on which you think are the best for the money and where to buy. I like the looks of the Engelhardt ES9 Swingmaster which I first saw at MF for $1400 but then I found it at Uptonbass with their custom setup which looks like a better way to go. I'm not stuck on the ES9 I just like the blonde finish. Also any advice on pickups and amps would be appreciated. Thanks

[Steve Swan]

I have a string preference for the Shen SB 90 over the Engelhardt ES9 Swingmaster for a blonde finish laminate rockabilly or bluegrass style bass. John Sprague of Shen could direct you to the Shen dealer nearest to Dallas. Good luck in your search!

[coreybass]

I'd seriously check out the Upton Superswing if you want a great blond bass. The Laminated model goes for $2100. It'll blow the doors off an Engelhardt and the setup will be top notch. If you don't care about the blond look, the Upton Hawkes laminated model goes for $1900 and is great. I just got one for taking on the road and couldn't be happier with it! I think the Uptons are the best thing out there and in their price range can't be touched. As far as amps, check out the acoustic image. They are fantastic amps. Hope that helps.

[drurb]

Originally Posted by coreybass

I'd seriously check out the Upton Superswing if you want a great blond bass. The Laminated model goes for $2100. It'll blow the doors off an Engelhardt and the setup will be top notch. If you don't care about the blond look, the Upton Hawkes laminated model goes for $1900 and is great. I just got one for taking on the road and couldn't be happier with it! I think the Uptons are the best thing out there and in their price range can't be touched. As far as amps, check out the acoustic image. They are fantastic amps. Hope that helps.

+1 on every point.

[Marc Piane]

Correct me if I'm wrong but it seems that if he is asking about a $2000 bass a $1000 amp is probably not in the cards. Tack on $175 for a pickup (my fav is the Realist for $175) and we are at $3100 not counting tax.

The acoustic image stuff is great but I'm not getting the sense that a guy buying his first DB needs top of the line stuff... yet.

My favs SWR WM 12. ~$500 new. GK MB150 (I got mine used for $400). Depending on volume the SWR WM10 is good. I have one used I could part with. PM me if you are interested. M-->

[drurb]

Originally Posted by fingers

Correct me if I'm wrong but it seems that if he is asking about a $2000 bass a $1000 amp is probably not in the cards.

Who knows? We'd have to hear from him. There's nothing wrong with mentioning the good stuff but I suspect he would appreciate your offering lower-cost alternatives.