• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Double Bass 5 string vs C extension.

#61
Went to my luthier and he showed me an uninstalled C extension. He said the low notes are mostly used for longer tones since it can be awkward to play (fast) on the C extension itself. Also he said the open E string when not being capo'ed has much more amplitude and has to have a higher action because of that. Not sure if this is true? I couldn't try myself because he didn't have any bass with a C extension to try.

The price was about 3500 euro with all capo's. That's a bit high for me. All in all the C extension has too much downsides for me I think. Maybe I will check out some 5 string basses (EADGC tuning) next month.
 
#62
Les Fret said:
Also he said the open E string when not being capo'ed has much more amplitude and has to have a higher action because of that. Not sure if this is true?
Click to expand...
Yes. It is true.
See below - there is a significant (visible!) difference in the string height/action on the "open" E/C string to allow for the wider amplitude.
See below:
Locked "E"
and,
Unlocked "E" = "C" string.
You get used to it.
It is not for the "faint of hand..."
IMG_3641(1).JPG
IMG_3640.JPG

Thanks.
 
#65
Once you get used to the keys, mine is fine. The adjustment of the fingers and their return springs is pretty critical, but once it's right and your fingers know what they are doing it's easy. There's a bit of a noise problem for studio work, but in an orchestral setting it's fine
 
#66
Les Fret said:
I thought it was a lot too. I think it was 2500 for the extension and 250 for each capo. I think those capos are expensive too.
Click to expand...

There are some pre-fabricated, off-the-shelf capo-style extensions that are being offered these days that are more economical. About five years ago, I had one of the KC Strings models installed on bass. With the extension and installation by my local luthier, the price was about $1k. (Then a couple of years later, I bought a five-string, which I really love.)

Links:

K.C. Strings Bass Extensions
Link Removed

I wrote a review on the KC Strings model, which you can read here:

Product Review: KC Strings Gated Extension

Hope this helps!
 
  • Like
Reactions: Les Fret
#69
I am a long time maker of hardware for C-Extensions, and consider myself quite knowledgeable on the subject. I try to avoid plugging my wares on this forum, but two issues have been brought up which I just can't ignore.
1. €3500? That is crazy. If you are in Europe then you have fewer extension builders to choose from, so those who do it might charge a premium, but that figure is simply offensive. There are plenty of luthiers here who do a nice job at a much lower price. Please PM me if you want some suggestions.
2. String height. Yes, the open C or B (H for Germans) string will me higher when the E-latch is open, but it needn't be uncomfortably so. It is dependent on "scoop". If the extension is made correctly, then the scoop of the extension fingerboard follows that of your existing fingerboard (If not, then you get rattles!). If you have a modern "low scoop" fingerboard, then the increase in height with a fully open extension is quite acceptable. If you have a fingerboard scoop where you can press down the highest note and still slide a chopstick freely in and out at the middle, then your height increase at the E will be significant. Also, whatever latches you choose will me less effective. There are other factors regarding the feasibility of installing an extension, but the main thing is to start with a healthy and well shaped fingerboard.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: Oscar Stern, gnypp45, Les Fret and 1 other person

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back