Turning a cello into an EUB?

[Bass Kebap]

I have a Korean made cello which is lying around, and I thought that it can be turned into an EUB. The plan I have in my mind is:
1 - attaching an upright neck, to the cello body. the neck would be built longer than usual so that the fretboard doesnt extend over the small body that much.
2 - reinforcing the top from inside
3 - either carving a smaller tailpiece or building the system on the eminence travel bass
4 - getting a bridge that has more surface area, so that the strings apply less pressure on the top.
btw, a luthier is going to do all these operations.

I think it might work, if the body doesn't crack up in the middle. The luthier says that no one will know how it will come out unless we try.
Any suggestions or ideas?
Thanks

[Bob Gollihur]

The only one I've seen like that was a Clevinger I saw at NAMM a few years ago, see http://www.clevinger.com/clevbass/Th...ra/Chimera.htm

It would seem to me that some heavy engineering will be necessary, as you mention, due to the higher forces in play. I guess I'd consider just how many dollars you are willing to put into a project that may or may not fly in the direction you hope. It seems to be one of those things that, if you have the time and skill, could be worth messing with, personally... but if you're paying pro$ it might not have the cost/benefit you expect.

Good luck with the project!

[Bass Kebap]

Thanks for your quick answer.
Well, since this will be a prototype, the luthier doesn't ask for money.
I think I'll start the project and see how it comes out. If everything goes wrong, and the cello gets ruined, I'll just attach the upright neck on a solid body and use it as a non- acoustic EUB.

BTW, I will need some pickups for the project, too. Do you ship to Turkey?
Thanks.

[Bob Gollihur]

Yes, we ship worldwide. Contact me off-board to discuss if you like. You'll need to determine the type and size of bridge to guide you towards the best and most practical pickup choice.