Herman Lowendall Bass

[LHbassist]

Does anyone out there have any information on this maker? I have done some research, only found his history of violin making, not basses. I know of his father Louis' work. I'm a luthier/bass repairman, and have a bass stamped inside in a woodburning tool "Herman Lowendall Berlin." Undated. This is my main performing bass. I believe it to be circa 1920-30. It's a roundback, lightly figured maple, spruce top, pretty bland except for the outrageously flamed Macassar Ebony fingerboard. Looks like a 'factory' made bass, had an integral bass bar, and wooden shaft tuners with thin cloverleaf 'buttons' like you see on Kluson tuners on a Kay bass. I've heard once of a flatback he made. I was wondering if there are other luthiers that are familiar with one, or any other bassists out there with a H. Lowendall. Thanks! Dave.

[Eric Hochberg]

Originally Posted by LHbassist

I was wondering if there are other luthiers that are familiar with one, or any other bassists out there with a H. Lowendall. Thanks! Dave.

I had an opportunity to buy one a couple of years ago. Wonderful sounding bass that needed a lot of work. Mark Sonksen bought it and restored it. It sounded even better afterwards. Mark may still have it and I'm sure he'd be happy to share info.