Durability of a hybrid bass

[johnbc]

After playing an electric bass in a bluegrass-style band for about 10 years or so, I have decided it is time to buy a double bass. Barring any new revelations, I have pretty much decided on the Upton Hawkes, bot not sure between laminated or hybrid. I also would like to play arco some in an orchestra-type setting like a church orchestra. Based on several postings and talking with Upton, I'm quite convinced that the hybrid would give me better sound for the orchestra setting, so my desire to do some orchestra really makes me like the idea of the hybrid.

My main concern with the hybrid is durability, which would be more of a concern in environments that the bluegrass music would take me to. For example, there is a large non-electric music festival held outdoors at a fairgrounds in Evart, MI. Groups of people form all over the place and "jam" all day and night. Of course the weather can be very hot and humid, and potentially a lot of sunlight (not sure how big of a deal that is) My question is, would you be comfortable hauling a Hawkes hybrid around all day at an event like that, or would that be a really bad idea for the health of the instrument?

Other than that, are there any other concerns that come to mind based on what I've described? The guy at Upton indicated they could give me a good setup that would be good for both styles, an adjustable bridge, and Obligato strings which are a good middle ground if you are going to be switching between the two styles.

Thanks for any advice,
John

[Ed Fuqua]

Since you don't really play upright yet, get somebody who does. Go to Upton's, have your friend play a bunch of basses. Buy the one that sounds most like it does in your head.

You talk about durability like the bass is just going to fall into toothpicks. Sure you want to take some care, but look around. There's folks playing basses that are hundreds of years old.

There are concerns, but just like you don't want to haul manure in your Maserati, you may want to consider whether or not you want to take the Guaneri onto an unshaded parking lot in July. But no matter hybrid or ply, you are still talking about a relatively inexpensive instrument. Don't leave it out in teh rain, everything should be fine with either one.

[Jazzman]

I played one of the blonde Hawkes laminated basses at the Upton shop. It was setup for slapping and had some black synthetic string on it. The bass played great. It had a wonderful sound - not as stuffy as other laminates in its price range that I have tried. I would have absolutely no reservations about buying this bass. I also believe they have a newer model with a thinner finish and different fingerboard - as this was the last of the "old ones."

That being said, I play jazz, blues, and folk-rock, for which, I ended up buying the Hawkes Hybrid. It seemed to speak a more and transmit more feel into your sound...none of which would benefit the rockabilly or bluegrass style of playing.

I hope that helps you.