Chellee 6 string Fanned Fret - Trade Feeler

[mikopita]

I love this bass and Peter Taylor at Chellee Guitars is a phenomenal luthier, but it is a beast and I'm not into 6ers. At this time I am only feeling out what might be available in trade for it. In reality, Peter has built a 5 string that is to die for that I'm saving up for.... so I might (might) be willing to sell but haven't really given it that much thought yet. Other than that, I'm a player and need instruments for my gigs. Electric Upright Basses, Sterling 5's and Lakland 5's are currently what I'm looking at. I might also be interested in amps and cabs too... send me your thoughts.

Otherwise, I can let it go for the cash price of: $1,300.... send me a message with all offers.

Specs:
Zebrawood top on Swamp Ash
Macasar Ebony Bridge
Ebony Fretboard on Maple Asymmetrical Neck
Bartolini Pickups w/ NTMB 3 band Preamp
36" - 34" scale
Dual truss-rods with graphite reinforcement rod.
19mm spacing at bridge

It's heavy (as it should be... it's a beast, but not unbearable). I'll try to weigh later. These pics are of the actual bass (it's a one-of-a-kind), but done by Peter. I'll try to get current pics up later.



Link to more pics on Chellee's site:
http://chellee.com/site/Gallery/Pages/06011.html#1

[Ds1]

What would the trade value of this bass be?

[mikopita]

Good question. I have no idea, so I'm kind of trying to figure it out. New it was upwards of $2,700, and I'm thinking roughly half that may be its value now. I'm willing to entertain all offers in the $1,000-1,500 range in trade value. Perhaps if something very interesting comes my way, I might be willing to do trade plus cash. Hey, shoot me a pm. The most I can do is laugh at your offer (privately of course) and then respectfully decline.

[MarkA]

Intriguing. I don't know anything about the Luthier or his instruments but it is, as you said, a monstrous looking axe. I've never played a fanned-fret instrument before -- how's the feel compare to parallel frets (if the question can be answered that simply)?

[mikopita]

Peter Taylor does impeccable work, and used to work for Lyrical Lumber and the Guitar Factory. His attention to detail is amazing.

I'm no expert on Fanned-Fret instruments, but the feel of it is nice. It seems that ergonomically it's easier on my hands because the angle of the frets are more inline with the natural curve of the shape of my hand. Each string has uniform tension and there is absolutely nothing floppy about any of the strings (especially the low B). The 36" scale is what makes it difficult for me to play since I'm only 5'10" and often play 3-4 hour gigs straight.... therefore I will typically only use this bass for a few songs and I often like to play one instrument the whole set (ie. my RBV is golden for me). Hence this doesn't get played as often as it should. I really like the wide string spacing, so even though it's a beast it sounds and plays well.... just a bit too much instrument for my needs.

[mikopita]

I'm posting a cash price too since several people have requested it. I'm still very much looking for trade offers though... I'd really like to see what possibilities could arise.

[MoonDoggy]

Any interest in a crazy funky cool Andreas Shark 4 or 5 string w/ Alembics?

Check the link in my signature for pics and details.

Thanks

Dan

[kbr]

What's the bridge spacing?

[mikopita]

Oh yeah, it's W I D E. String spacing is 19mm.

[mikopita]

TTT - This is beauty AND the beast

[gscroggin]

I'm not in the market, but that thing is very cool! Good luck with the sale/trade.