Is a half size double bass suitable for 6 foot student?

[Simon Marsh]

I have been offered a double bass which, although wider than the dimensions I've seen for a half size bass, is half size in terms of overall length and length from nut to bridge. I am 6 feet tall and 14 stone (if that's relevant) and am unsure of it's suitability. I have it for five days trial at present - any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks,

Simon

[Jake deVilliers]

You're plenty big enough for a 3/4 bass and you'll be happier with the sound.

[Simon Marsh]

Thanks for the advice. I am a total novice (recently converted from the dark side (electric bass guitar) so please bear with me - but do you get a deeper, richer tone from a larger bodied instrument?

Thanks again,

Simon

[Eli_Upright12]

Originally Posted by Simon Marsh

Thanks for the advice. I am a total novice (recently converted from the dark side (electric bass guitar) so please bear with me - but do you get a deeper, richer tone from a larger bodied instrument?

Thanks again,

Simon

It helps, a big vibrating cavity, bigger sound, but also a 1/2 size bass would be way too small for you, I'm only 5'9'' and I play a pretty large 3/4. Intonation is easier on a bigger bass too. Also in the bass market you can find more, better and more diverse basses in 3/4 size than in 1/2 size.

[Don Higdon]

Is a half size double bass suitable for 6 foot student?

No.
In addition to all that you're going to hear from others, it's a financial albatross. The resale market is virtually non-existent.

[Andrew McGregor]

But don't go thinking you *have* to have a 4/4 either. They're not necessarily better (although, a 4/4 is an option for you since you will be able to play it). Most times a really big bass is just heavy and awkward to carry around, without much if any benefit.

3/4 is the standard size for a reason; it's by far the best compromise between playability, practicality and sound quality.

[toman]

1/2 size basses can be kind of cool as a novelty sort of thing, but as an ordinary instrument, no. They're sure easy to pack around though...

[droo]

Originally Posted by toman

1/2 size basses can be kind of cool as a novelty sort of thing, but as an ordinary instrument, no. They're sure easy to pack around though...

Agree.
(It depends what you want to play - if you play jazz pizz, then if you get a decent pickup then the volume shouldn't matter so much. Plus if you sit on a low-ish stool the height won't be a problem).
Unless you're being given it for free though, or for a massively cut-down price, I would avoid it and get a 3/4.

[ao'connor17]

i played a half when i was four feet tall...get a 3/4. 7/8 are also a possibility. my teacher is short (5' 6") and he plays a 7/8 bass.

[Steve Swan]

I play 7/8 basses exclusively and I'd need another 4" to make 6'. Do yourself a big favor and don't start playing a middle school kid's bass.

[Don Higdon]

Originally Posted by Simon Marsh

I have been offered a double bass ... I have it for five days trial at present - any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Judging by the posting date, I don't think this an open question anymore.

[lase]

Originally Posted by Steve Swan

I play 7/8 basses exclusively and I'd need another 4" to make 6'. Do yourself a big favor and don't start playing a middle school kid's bass.

I'm in middle school and I play a full size I believe its called and it's perfect for my 6 foot height!

[bumbleBur2slow]

um...i would suggest a 3\4 size. I am 5' 4'' and a 3/4 size is more comfortable to play than a half size.