How long to rent before buying?

transition · #1 02-15-2011, 03:00 PM

Background: I am a saxophonist (with degrees in performance and education, blah blah blah) who has always wanted to play the bass.

I picked up a cheap bass guitar from craigslist a few months ago to test the waters, and have had enough fun with it that I decided to really go for it with the double bass (which was really my main goal - BG is fun, but I'm more of a DB kinda guy).

I've been taking lessons since early January. I'm renting a Shen SB80, and have it for three months (which of course can be extended). I'm totally loving the DB, and know I'm committed enough to want to buy my own instrument.

The thing is that I'm such a rank newb that I don't know if I can properly evaluate different basses. I know that for a serious player, your first instrument of any kind is not likely to be your last, but at the same time, I certainly don't need a mind-blowing bass - I'm serious about learning to play, but at my age (40) and with my goals (mainly jazz, but I'd also like to develop a "good enough" arco sound), I recognize that I don't need a "fully serious" bass.

I would like to get something nicer than I need right now so I can grow into it and not feel limited by it in five years. I'd like to buy a bass and just focus on playing it and not really obsess about instruments.

(can you tell I've done this dance with saxophones?)

Anyway, I'm starting to drift into a different subject, so back to this one: how long should I rent before I buy?

I don't want to jump the gun, but I also think that waiting until I'm "fully ready" might mean renting for long enough that I could have paid for the thing...

waleross · #2 02-15-2011, 05:39 PM

When I first started the String Bass ( now I don't play it, electric only) I rented some thing at Samash in NY. I needed it since I had already signed up for a bass teacher. I learned how to bow it, play in tune ( at times) and had a lot of fun living with a String Bass. I would try renting one for say 2 or 3 months and see how it goes. If and when I get back to the Upright, I'll be buying one for keeps but I have already studied it, no matter how many years ago it was. If I were to take up the Tenor Sax, I would rent something that was playable and see how I liked it or how it liked me. Same deal with the String Bass, IMO, BEST OF LUCK ..

Matt Ides · #3 02-15-2011, 05:57 PM

I would talk to who you are renting from and see if they will do a rent to buy or credit some of the rental towards the purchase of an instrument. That way you can keep playing the rental and upgrade down the road. I would keep renting for now and talk to your teacher about when it would be right to take the next step. If the bass isn't holding you back currently then just play on.

aonindy · #4 02-15-2011, 06:00 PM

Hey,

Just my newb 2c... Same age group as yourself, same intentions... the student loaner bass I had was great but even after a short few lessons I was getting frustrated by it's sound and limitations... I went to a local well respected shop/luthier, and pretty much said I know nothing, please play for me! .. And I listened, very carefully.. Then I played the wee bit I know and could immediately hear and feel the difference even a few hundred bucks makes (and a solid setup!). I know the bass I want now, but settled for one halfway there price wise, and quality wise... And I will revisit and tradeup Archie end if the year hopefully. If you have the funds, go for it... Having a better quality instrument really does make a difference!

Good luck on your journey!

Allen

Dave Irwin · #5 02-15-2011, 08:31 PM

I've never been a big fan of renting. If you research the newbie threads about buying your 1st bass and maybe take a bass playing friend or teacher with you to look at basses, you can buy a bass that if/when you decide to sell, will retain it's value or more.
It's mostly a matter of patience while looking. All this is purely from the long term financial perspective.
There are always other considerations.

Good luck,
Dave

Don Higdon · #6 02-19-2011, 05:01 PM

The question of owning v. renting is moot. The OP is already renting.
I would suggest to the OP that during the 3 months that you have the Shen, you try out other basses, even if it's only for a few minutes. It will give you some basis for comparison. As you try these, discuss your experiences with your teacher.

Steve Swan · #7 02-19-2011, 05:22 PM

Involve your teacher in the decision. Sometimes they will come with you to shop to help for a fee. Good luck!