Double Bass Considerations

[aprado83]

Hello all TBer's. I am considering in buying an Upright bass to begin to learn how to play jazz. I have been playing electric bass for about 10 years and I think I am ready to venture out. I need some help as to what size I might need or what sizes compared to 1/2 size and 3/4 size and 4/4 size. I don't know anything about how to pick out a decent student upright bass. Any kind of suggestions concerning the upright bass. Please anything would help.

Adam P.

[eucalyptus]

good call migrating to the double bass. as far as size goes, generally a 3/4 bass works for most people. mine happens to be a 7/8 bass, but both of my previous ones were 3/4. and for those just getting into it, a plywood (or 'laminated') bass is a good option. they tend to be pretty sturdy. you're probably looking at anywhere between $900-$1,800 for a decent plywood starter. sometimes they can cost more, though. i don't really know much about basses, frankly, so can't really recommend any brands/makers to look into..
you'll get much better advice than mine from others here, so kick back and someone will come along to point you in the right direction!

[Andrew McGregor]

3/4 is standard size. There are a bunch of sticky links in this forum; read them, that will help you avoid the pitfalls.

#1: No cheap Chinese bass-shaped objects from eBay. There are decent basses made in China, which makes that more confusing. Read the links and post here if in doubt.
#2: Professional setup makes a massive difference. Budget for it.
#3: Find a teacher. You can injure yourself badly with this instrument, a good teacher can get your technique right so you won't. You can't do this for yourself, it just isn't possible.
#4: Used is often better value than new, especially since the setup might already be done.

[MIKMAN]

Start with a decent laminate, which will be upgraded if and when your chops will be to a higher standard. Some of the best choices in the range $1.800-$2500 are the Upton standard laminate, the Engelhardt and the Lemur Jupiter. The Upton and the Lemur will come to you with a perfect set up. Read the newbies topics in our forum and try to gather as much information as you can. And please avoid e-Bay, general music stores etc. If you can find a luthier or a spesialized DB shop in your area you will establish a valuable relationship for all your DB ventures.
Good luck.
Mike

[aprado83]

Thanks a lot for the considerations.

[bobknowsbass]

Recent upright convert here. I found a cheap upright for $350 on craigslist. Some would say it was stupid, but the neck was in decent shape so I figured it was worth it. I took it to a local luthier who said I got an insane deal, (relief) but it needed a set-up. I spent $300 on reshaping the finger board, shaping the nut and making it playable. I also spent money on a bag, bow, quaver, rosin and a pickup. All in all I spent $1000 on this venture. So if you spend it right off the bat, or in small steps like me, expect to spend at least a G. Oh, and get a teacher you like who plays the style you want to play.