Anyone tried the bow rubber and decided not to use it? I have been playing with one for a few years and last night, after practicing took it off. I perceived more response in my playing without the rubber. Any thoughts?
I just started using one, and so far I like it. It also helps things because my bow is a bit tip heavy. I got them from Lemur, and I cut one down to just under an inch, which is how I'm using it. I didn't want to have the entire length, and the inch or less I have does the job just fine.
Thank you for your replies. If the wording in my OP appears to include the obvious double entendre it was not intended. The names associated with the anatomy of the bass, its bow and techniques lend themselves to akward statements at times. I'm adding more background for clarification.
I have enjoyed sharing my experiences in my journey learning the bass with TB members. I've just finished George Vance's second book and played my first orchestra concert last week. Thank you for your good advice.
I find joy in the full pallet of tone color that the double bass can provide. I like the deep full tones and the breathy flute-like sounds it can make. I have a quest to get the best sound out of my bass. To that end, I recently purchased a Prochownik bow after auditioning several. The Prochowik offered that sound on my bass so I bought it. I was advised by a teacher to play with the bow rubber when I started taking my classical technique seriously. It provides comfort in the grip and some of the finest players (Rabbath) use one. However, it is my obsevation that the upper partials in the tone (the breathy sounds) appear to be muted when the rubber is on the new bow. So far, the trade-off is a slightly sore thumb. I'll have to work on a more relaxed, balanced hold if I decide to play w/out the rubber grip.
I was interested in knowing if anyone else had the experience of a muting effect with the bow rubber? I've not heard it mensioned on any of the posts. Ideally, I wish for a comfortable bow hold and the best sound out of my bass. But if other more experienced players have found that the sound is comprimised, this is good info to have.
