Looking for Czech Bass information

Tulsa Tom · #1 07-30-2008, 06:49 PM

I am purchasing a full size 4/4 bass. The label says Joseph Jan Dvorak; handcrafted by Luby and Chebu

Can anyone direct me to or provide some information on this bass? It is huge and in mint condition. It was purchased in Germany about 5 years ago.

Thanks---Tulsa Tom

Bass Barrister · #2 07-30-2008, 08:45 PM

Tom,

Luby and Cebu are places, not people. They are in the Czech Republic and Luby is the the home of the Strunal Company (formerly "Lidl").

From what I know, Jan Dvorak is a trade name used by Knilling for its "master" grade of string instruments and bows. It looks like they also market basses by E. Wilfer of Germany.

My guess is that your bass was made by Strunal in the Czech Republic. Strunal makes basses in several grades.

I'm sure that you are aware that the "normal" size for DBs is 3/4, with 7/8 sized basses most often used for orchestral work. 4/4 basses are not common. I'd verify that information.

Tulsa Tom · #3 07-30-2008, 09:46 PM

Thanks for the input.
The length -bottom to top of scroll is 75.5 inches (pin not included)
The fingerboard is ebony and is 35.25 inches.
Nut to bridge is 44.25. The body is much wider than my other 3/4.
It is advertised as a Orchestra Full size base. 4/4 and 5/5 is on the label inside.

The action is high, and volume is incredible.

samriley · #4 07-31-2008, 07:21 AM

3/4, 7/8, 4/4 theyre just numbers.

I have two German basses. One approx c1890-1900, the other is around 40 years old.
My old bass is 74" in length, and has a 44.5" string length.
My newer bass is 75" in length with a 43.75" string length.
Both are considered 7/8 size basses.
Full size basses are huge. I would suggest with the measurements given that you are looking at a 7/8 size bass.
both of mine are setup with a high action and gut strings and produce a very big acoustic sound.

Tulsa Tom · #5 07-31-2008, 08:43 AM

Thanks, Sam. That is good to know, as I am not knowledgeable with bass construction.
.........Now to try and fit it in a Honda...........

Caoimhín · #6 08-01-2008, 06:35 AM

Hi Tom

That is a Strunal you've got your hands on. I've got one myself and it has pretty much that exact label on it. What the 5/5 signifies is the grade of instrument - nothing to do with size (thats what the 4/4 is for). If you check their website it'll tell you exactly what it means.

http://www.strunal.cz/new/index.php?cat=products&id=4

Enjoy it!