Kay Bass: A Few Questions

[lvsofgrass]

I am a newbie here and to the upright bass. I did play it a little in middle school. My primary instrument, though, is guitar. I have played it for thirty years, although it does not show . . .

I am thinking of buying a 1962 Kay S-9 bass from the second owner. There are no structural issues. She said it might need new strings, having not been played in seven years.

1) What would be this bass's value?
2) How hard is it to change strings? Is it something I could do? I change guitar, mandolin, dobro, and banjo strings.
3) Can you recommend any brand/model string for this bass. It will be used for bluegrass/folk type music.

I would appreciate any and all feedback.

[Gufenov]

I've seen used Kays go for $800 to $2,500 plus, depending on age and condition. I think that once you get over $1,500, you have a fair number of options available.

I'm playing Innovation Super-Silvers on my Engelhardt S1 and like them. I have played Obligatos in the past and like their tone, but they don't last long.

Jerry Fretwell deals in old Kays and can provide you with some guidance. You might also post your question over at www.bluegrassbassplace.com for some additional insight.

[lvsofgrass]

Cliff:

Thanks for the reply; I appreciate the advice. Any idea what I should expect to pay in labor to have it strung? I paid 800. for it. Based on what I have seen them going for, I think I did okay on it, don't you? I am looking for strings to last a long time!

Steve

[alanbarnosky]

Steve,

If you have experience restringing a guitar, I would suggest buying the strings and doing it yourself. Just examine how the strings wrap into the peg as you are undoing them. Also, there are some websites that have instructions on how to do it and probably some threads on this website as well... not sure off the top of my head what they are but a search engine should get you there.

Provided its in decent condition, $800 for a 60s Kay is pretty good if you ask me. Have fun with it!

[Gufenov]

Depending on the luthier, you'll spend anywhere from $50 - $150 labor plus the cost of strings. I prefer to put the strings on myself and pay the luthier for things I'm not qualified to do, like check out the bridge, nut, and overall instrument and sound-post placement.

[MingusAmongUs]

I think David Gage has a good how-to on his web site. Just make sure you do one string at a time and keep everything in place.

[Jake deVilliers]

Why not ask your luthier if he/she would show you how to replace the strings?

Offer to pay the usual rate and you could gain some knowledge AND build a relationship with somebody who can help your music.

[Damon Rondeau]

With 30 years of guitar you've probably changed strings a few times, haven't you? The DB is bigger and more unwieldy to work with, but the principles are about the same. If there's anything about doing a nice neat job that you find daunting, with no damage to the strings or bass, then maybe you shouldn't try. Otherwise, go for it. The main difference to be aware of is the soundpost -- to a large extent, string tension is holding it in place. If you're not aware of that and let the post drop, or if you have a D'Oh moment, you're going to be learning about soundpost placement and you probably don't want the lesson.

[Jake deVilliers]

The other thing you don't want to do is wind too much string onto the shaft and crack the pegbox.

[lvsofgrass]

Wow! We are definitely hooked on thisbass; I have a hard time passing it and not stopping and plunking on it. I think I am going to take it to an expert for the first time and - as you suggest -- watch and learn.

As for strings, someone has recommended the Thomastik Spirocore Mediums. we willp lay mostly folk/bluegrass stuff, probably not much bow stuff at first, seeing as we have no bow.

Could any of you suggest some oher brands? We have a family friend who owns a music store, and he has offered to order me whatever I need at cost.

Steve

[MingusAmongUs]

You might actually be better off with Weichs (light gauge) since there is a slight neck issue. Less tension would give your neck better chances of survival. But Spirocores are pretty much de rigeur... they'll last forever, they sound good, and they are relatively affordable. You can always change em later if you want.

Or give the D'Addario Helicores a try. I like em. They settle in much quicker (but don't last as long).

[Jeremy Darrow]

The lightest Spirocore Gauge is solo gauge. They are made to be tuned up a whole step for solo playing, but work well in standard tuning as well.

Best of luck with your new bass.
Jeremy

[Paul Warburton]

The changing of strings is a complicated process.Much akin to brain surgery.

[Cathead]

I suggest getting a string winder from Bob Gollihur. You can use it as is or you can put it in your drill and really go to town. Less than $15.00 well spent!

[Jim Henderson]

Steve,
You may want a string that is a little easier on your fingers until they toughen up a bit. Possibly Obligatos, and I hear that UB black nylon strings are well thought of. Good luck Buddy.
Jim


"Maidens Crossing"
"Old Time " Bluegrass Music