for roadtrips and playing outdoors that might get banged up a bit,a Engelhardt M1/EM1 or a Shen SB80.....Or if any other ones come to mind for under or around 1500.00....and yes iam new and have read through the stickys and forums before this post...
The problem with making this decision is that unless you are lucky enough to live near a store that has both in stock-which is not, apparently, very common--you have to buy something like this sight unseen.
FWIW, I recently took the plunge and ordered the Engelhardt EM1, and I'm very happy with it. Now, I'm very new to URB, so my experience shouldn't count for too much, but I'm pleased.
There is a M1 for consignment not to far from me but I believe the owner is going to ask way to much,I looked up the serial # and its a 2000,the Luthier is going through it right now to make sure its all ok...I might give a offer of 900 to a grand,it looks brand new.....
I have nerve damage in my left arm and hand so a thinner neck would be better thats why the M1 and SB80 have caught my eye....
I have played my brothers Kay C1 and like it but not going to find one up here hahaha unless I get real lucky..
Buy used. You don't want to be putting the first ding in a new bass. Buy someone else's used, dinged up bass and let them take the loss for doing what you'll likely be in line to do next. By the time you're done with it, it'll be well "seasoned" and "antiqued" - which, of course, raises its value.
...and yes iam new and have read through the stickys and forums before this post.
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