C-Extensions

moopants · #1 06-24-2007, 10:28 PM

I've seen a bunch of them, but I still don't really understand how they work.

This may be a dumb question, but I just don't understand! I know there are stops on them, but do you reach all the way up there to play the low notes?

PaulCannon · #2 06-25-2007, 12:05 AM

Simple physics. The longer you make the string, the lower the pitch you get. What you're referring to is the most common extension type, which has stops on each chromatic note between the low C and E. The player can elect to put any of the stops down to artificially create an open string, or leave them all open for the low C. They can also finger the string as they would anywhere else on the fingerboard.

So, yes, we really do reach all the way "up there" to hit the low notes.

moopants · #3 06-25-2007, 12:17 AM

I just touched the scroll on my bass (where the extension would be), and it seems a bit awkward. What would you do for fast passages?

PaulCannon · #4 06-25-2007, 12:40 AM

It's a little awkward, but if you position the bass a little lower, it's easier.

Fast passages? On the extension? Do those even happen? Anything quick down there is going to sound like slop no matter how good you are.

mcnaire2004 · #5 06-25-2007, 02:03 AM

Yea, just tilt the bass a little bit. You'll get used to reaching up there. Though, I have noticed that I rarely use the grip on the back of my extension.

There are a few orchestra passages that go a little fast. I am working on one right now from Red Cape Tango. You have to break them down, not due to difficulty, but in a attempt to make a clear sound. Yes, it is very possible for a great clear sound, just takes exact execution to pull it out.

moopants · #6 06-25-2007, 09:14 AM

Hmmm... they seem cool, but I can't even afford my own bass, let alone an extension! Thanks for all the replies.

anon_6j591b0 · #7 06-25-2007, 10:32 AM

Since we're on the subject anyone wanna comment on the the relationship between the low string and the other three? My experience with a Kubicki EBG with an extended scale low string and how different it felt and sounded from the others even when stopped at the same length as the others makes me wonder how much adding the extension can change an instrument.

BMason · #8 06-25-2007, 11:39 AM

I've always wondered how Don Juan 9 before D is physically possible with an extension. I fooled around with it yesterday and just ended up laughing at the musical diarrhea I was making.

I have the CSO/Solti recording and the section pulls it off fairly convincingly, but that would be due to several members, like Joe Guastafeste, playing 5-ers.

ClassicalBass · #9 06-25-2007, 03:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by moopants

I've seen a bunch of them, but I still don't really understand how they work.

This may be a dumb question, but I just don't understand! I know there are stops on them, but do you reach all the way up there to play the low notes?

Well, there are also the mechanical extensions as well. For these, you wouldn't need to go "way up there" since most have the 'buttons' around half position, just out of reach from normal playing. I've never played on one of these myself (nor have I played any extension as of yet), but I've heard they can be extremely squeaky, and that most of them are created in a backwards manner (the top button stopping the E, then next down stopping the Eb, etc.) I don't know how accurate that is, but I'd prefer the style with the gates myself.

LM Bass · #10 06-25-2007, 03:42 PM

I think Strauss just requires 5 strings, end of story!

I had to play "Salome" and "Elektra" with the Vancouver Opera, and using an extension for it was just, well frustrating. . .
The fella next to me had a 5-string, and had a much easier time of it.

Laurence

BMason · #11 06-25-2007, 06:11 PM

Maybe when I'm certified enough, I'll buy a "Strauss bass"...