regarding c-extensions?

[AZNBassist]

Hey, with all this talk about different kinds of c-extensions and 5-string basses and being required to hit some of those below the E notes, I'm just wondering if I should get a c-extension too? For those of you who have them, what difference does it make to your bass? What are the pros & cons of getting a c-extension?

[Heifetzbass]

[quote=AZNBassist;4085613]Hey, with all this talk about different kinds of c-extensions and 5-string basses and being required to hit some of those below the E notes, I'm just wondering if I should get a c-extension too? For those of you who have them, what difference does it make to your bass? What are the pros & cons of getting a c-extension?[/QUOTE

I like to rattle the cellist's brains...

Seriously, I couldn't play without one now. I prefer the extension for most playing, but I do have a 5 string as well. The extension really opened up the low end response and there have been no negative effects what so ever.

If you can afford it, go for it. Just make sure someone who knows what they are doing installs it.

Brian

[Bob Branstetter]

Originally Posted by AZNBassist

Hey, with all this talk about different kinds of c-extensions and 5-string basses and being required to hit some of those below the E notes, I'm just wondering if I should get a c-extension too? For those of you who have them, what difference does it make to your bass? What are the pros & cons of getting a c-extension?

With a properly installed extension, the bass should play exactly the same with the E stop closed as it plays without an extension. With non-classical playing, I find I use those extra low notes mainly on endings since fast fingering is close to impossible. I tend to use it more when working with singers. Low Eb and C come in real handy. About the only negative I can think of is you need to be a little more careful when putting your bass in and out of a car since the extension may stick out beyond the top of the scroll. It can also be a problem with a some tight fitting bass bags/cases. You may need to have the case modified (or get a new one) after the extension installation.

[Stan Haskins]

Bob (or anyone else) -

What's a reasonable ball-park figure for the cost of adding an extension (a simple one, low C, without machines for gating chromatic notes)?

Just curious.