Quote:
Originally Posted by Nagrom  Yes, its' kind of like asking "what is a good brand of oil paintings?" |
I just don't agree when looking for an entry-level bass. That is, I think it makes a great deal of sense to discuss "brand names." Think of brands often mentioned around here, e.g., Engelhardt, Shen, Upton, Thompson, etc. Considering only entry-level instruments, there is remarkable consistency within those brands. Sure, every bass is different and all that. Still, in my experience, there is far less variance
within than
across the brands. For example, pick any Engelhardt you like. You'll never find one with the general characteristics of an Upton and vice versa (leaving aside which of the two one might prefer.) One can depend on the reliability of the characteristics of those brands.
Now, higher level basses are another matter entirely. There, the oil-painting analogy becomes more apropos as the artistry of the maker and individual character of the tone woods comes into play. You'll even find that to be true within the "brands." Among, for example, high-level Shens and Uptons and basses from "one-off" luthiers, individuality is evident and, in many ways, is counted upon.
