/ Register

A cheap but decent double bass.

Discussion in 'Basses [DB]' started by liran, Oct 3, 2001.

  1. Oct 3, 2001 #1
    liran

    liran

    Dec 18, 2000
    San Antonio, Texas
    Hi,
    I was just wondering what is a cheap double bass, which is pretty decent. I have played the standup a couple of times and i think it is amazing:D The tonal quality and everything is just beautiful. Thank you!:)
     
  2. Oct 4, 2001 #2
    rablack

    rablack

    Mar 9, 2000
    Houston, Texas
    Welcome to the dark side Mr. Freak - you've dipped your toe in the water now jump on in.

    Depends on what you mean by "pretty decent." You can pick up a chinese factory bass for $5-600 on eBay. You're probably gonna have to spend about that much on strings and setup to get it playable (if that is even possible). All in all, most would advise against that route. The general price of admission for pretty decent (good enough to learn on without the instrument hampering your progress) is around $1500. (renting is another option while you are learning)

    BTW "brands" are much less important in the DB world compared to the BG world. Each instrument must be judged on its own merits. Best bet is to get a DB teacher who can help you find a bass (and later give you non-optional lessons). San Antonio has an orchestra - start by asking there or at one of the universities. There still might be deals around on old high school basses, classified ads from people who don't what they've got etc... But you have to have a bit of experience with the DB before you can begin to evaluate one for purchase.

    Good luck
     
  3. Oct 11, 2001 #3
    Martin Sheridan

    Martin Sheridan

    Jan 4, 2001
    Fort Madison, Iowa
    Bass Maker
    Kansas City Strings has a good Chinese bass for $900 that will be set up right with good strings, bridge etc. If you can spend $1300 you can get it with an ebony board. www.kcstrings.com.