Hybrid Bass

[ElGringoBurrito]

Hello. I am new here so bear with me. I am in the market for a bass. It will require saving up for since my funds are low. It will be my first since I have been using my schools. I really would like a hybrid just for the better tone. My top pick is currently the Thompson Hybrid from String Emporium. I'm open to any other suggestions. $2,500 is pretty much my max.

[Steve Swan]

The Shen SB 150 or SB 180 hybrid models are also good choices. Whenever possible, it's best to play the insturment that you are going to buy. If you fill out your profile, the fourm can help you to locate good resources in your area. Happy hunting!

[Eric Swanson]

+100 on the Shens. They are, in my opinion, unbeatable value.

The SB 150 I rented for three months made me think many times about spending much more money on my carved bass. It was that good, as set up by Johnson Strings' "Bass Shop" here in MA.

I would not buy without checking out several Shens...

Full disclosure; I have no financial connection with the Shen firm, at all...

[powerbass]

I just purchased a used Thompson hybrid bass used from a fellow TBer - it was basically brand new, he didn't play it very much. I have not played many other basses so take my experience with a grain of salt. It is a beautiful instrument, the finish is very good, the tuners are high quality and the set up seems good. The spruce top is shaped well - no dips or lumps, the fingerboard is ebony. It has a very nice sound, good growl and sustain. It bows very well. Since it is brand new it needs to be played to improve the sound. I am planning on replacing the tailpiece - it is plastic. It has an Eb flat and the neck profile/thickness is very comfortable, in fact I have less fatigue playing this compared to my cheap ply bass. I am very happy with this bass and I would recommend it