Thin sound

[Gérard Paradis]

Hi guys, I recently got a new bass. The bass is fully carved and as never been played. The sound is good but not very loud. I never have a fully carved bass, will the sound "open" after some time or do I have some other manipulations (sound post, bridge etc) to do? It is a bass of about 3,000$ value. Thanks for your advices.

[paulunger]

Take it to a luthier and get the set up worked on. Have them check your soundpost, bridge and strings. Having a new soundpost and strings can make a big difference in the amount and quality of sound.
Yes, a new bass will open up a little as it is played.

[Jake deVilliers]

"Take it to a luthier and get the set up worked on"

That's good advice. Also ask their opinion on the bass. Even though its all solid wood doesn't mean that the top isn't way too thick for instance.

It might be a setup issue or it could be intrinsic to the bass but only an experienced bass repair person will be able to tell.

Good luck!

[Sam Sherry]

It's also worth noting that much of the sound from any particular bass starts with the player.

If you told us more about you, Gerard, or filled out your profile we might be able to provide more focused advice.