Selder Double Bass

[nello]

Hi everyone

I am looking to buy a full size double bass for my daughter which has outgrown her 1/2 size. I have been offered a 'Selmer' for, apparently, a very good price.
I know Selmer are quite famous for the 'wind' instruments and never knew that they also made string instruments.
Has anyone got any info on the 'Selmer' string instruments?

Any comment greatly appreciated

Thank you

Nello

[Overdoseonbass]

Where are you located? You probably would prefer a 3/4 size bass for your daughter, that is the usual size. A full size might just be too much to haul around easily!

[drurb]

Selmer bass? IMO, No!

[jtlownds]

Is this an older bass? Kay made basses that were labled as Selmers back in the '30s. This may just be a rebranded Kay. Selmer may well have had other basses, but I am not aware of any.

[Eric Hochberg]

Originally Posted by drurb

Selmer bass? IMO, No!

I think you'd have to know more about it before you jump in with a no. How old is it, where was it made, what condition is it in, does it sound good, is it the right size for your daughter (3/4 basses vary)? You can't just go by a name and a price. Please read the NB links, these points have all been covered many times.

On the name thing, a top bassist in Chicago plays a bass labeled Lyon & Healy, known as a harp manufacturer with a music retail store many years ago. It's a fine bass, probably made in Germany and imported for sale in the states. Never heard of a Selmer labeled bass, but anything is possible.

[Eric Hochberg]

Originally Posted by jtlownds

Is this an older bass? Kay made basses that were labled as Selmers back in the '30s. This may just be a rebranded Kay. Selmer may well have had other basses, but I am not aware of any.

There you go, never knew this.

[Marcus Johnson]

They made some great guitars. Django played Selmers.

[drurb]

Originally Posted by ehochberg

I think you'd have to know more about it before you jump in with a no. How old is it, where was it made, what condition is it in, does it sound good, is it the right size for your daughter (3/4 basses vary)? You can't just go by a name and a price. Please read the NB links, these points have all been covered many times.

On the name thing, a top bassist in Chicago plays a bass labeled Lyon & Healy, known as a harp manufacturer with a music retail store many years ago. It's a fine bass, probably made in Germany and imported for sale in the states. Never heard of a Selmer labeled bass, but anything is possible.

Well, you're right if it's a re-labeled Kay. That would, at least, make it somewhat valuable if not a good instrument for, say, classical work. From what I've seen, Selmers are so-so instruments sold through guitar shops.

[drurb]

Originally Posted by jtlownds

Is this an older bass? Kay made basses that were labled as Selmers back in the '30s. This may just be a rebranded Kay. Selmer may well have had other basses, but I am not aware of any.

I believe Selmer bought Glaesel instruments lock, stock, and barrel.

[nello]

Hi guys thanks for all the replies.
I have found out a bit more about it from a double bass maker. The label on the outside says 'Selmer London UK', inside it has a label with 'Made in Czechoslovakia'. Apparently it was made in the 40s/50s!? Maple back and ribs, pine front. It seems to have a very good sound and no crack or major repairs needed, it just needs a good polish as it is filthy.
Only reason I am thinking of buying this is because it is such a rediculs price, couldn't even buy a dinner for four with what he's asking for it.

Nello

[fretlessspence]

Tell me where it is, I'll pick it up for you.

[nello]

Originally Posted by fretlessspence

Tell me where it is, I'll pick it up for you.

Too late mate, I've already picked it up