Upton Standard or Thompson RM 100

Rocky · #1 07-13-2010, 07:30 PM

Hello everyone, I am considering getting one of these basses, but I can't seem to make up my mind which one to order. I have researched both brands on the internet, and both seem to get great reviews. The price difference is significant, and of course I would rather spend less, but past experience has taught me this is not always the best way to go. What I am looking for is a bass that I can play mostly blues, swing, and eventually some jazz with. I would prefer to stay with this instrument for at least 5 or more years before wanting to upgrade or better yet not wanting to upgrade at all. I have played upright for a few years in the past, and found I don't really like thin necks like an englehardt has because it fatigues my hand. Any advice is really appreciated. Thanks

longfinger · #2 07-13-2010, 09:16 PM

This is from November 2009...

Thompson v. Upton?

Prices have changed since then.

SpikeTheCat · #3 07-14-2010, 05:27 AM

My 2 cents, and you know what that can buy these days...
I live in an area where double basses are a rarity (remind me to relate my story of the Craig's List BSO sometime...) so after research and careful consideration, I bought a Thompson RM-100 with the oil varnish finish and upgraded tuners. I freakin' love this bass! I readily admit that this is the only double bass I've ever played, but I do have experience with EUB's and have extensive experience with other string instruments, and am confident that I can tell a quality instrument when I see one. My Thompson looks great, sounds great (pizz only player) and the set up was absolutely perfect right out of the box. Good luck on the purchase whichever way you decide to go!

Bass · #4 07-14-2010, 04:26 PM

Well it's official!

An Upton Standard is better than a Thompson RM 100 (by a count of 9 to 1).

Square Bear · #5 07-14-2010, 04:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bass

Well it's official!

An Upton Standard is better than a Thompson RM 100 (by a count of 9 to 1).

clearly. 10 is an absolutely representative sample, and we all know that ownership is the defining factor of quality.

Rocky · #6 07-14-2010, 07:24 PM

I'd like to thank everyone that has contributed to helping me make my decision on my future bass purchase. I have decided to go with the Upton bass as I feel this is the best value for me. I spoke with Eric over the past few days, and I am confident that Upton will build a bass that I can musically grow with and be proud to own. Speaking with Eric was a true pleasure, and educational. I am very excited at the prospect of owning a quality instrument made right here in the U.S.A. Again let me say thank you to all those who helped.

banjoboy · #7 07-14-2010, 07:44 PM

For the price your paying for the Upton, you could get a Thompson hybrid, which is an awesome bass!

Rocky · #8 07-14-2010, 08:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by banjoboy

For the price your paying for the Upton, you could get a Thompson hybrid, which is an awesome bass!

True, but I want to support American businesses whenever possible, and I like the fact that Upton is a green company.

swmmojo · #9 07-14-2010, 09:03 PM

I own an Upton Standard Ply and can honestly say it is a keeper for 5+ years or more. I got exactly what I wanted and could not be happier. Perfect for the Americana stuff I do. Great people doing amazing work. Feel free to PM me any questions.

Rocky · #10 07-15-2010, 02:31 PM

Its Official! I ordered my Upton Standard bass with Eric's help today. Thank you everyone!