• 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 freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

acoustic bass advice.

For some odd reason a couple of years ago I bought a michael Kelly club 4 bass online a few years ago. It was around $350 and was really, really nice right out of the box. I've since sold it but if I needed an acoustic I would buy one again.
 
I just bought an Ibanez AEB 10 from Guitar Center and I really like it. It has been a great bass so far. I actually has a Michael Kelly Club Custom that I bought on ebay before it and was not too impressed with it. It did not put out the same true acoustic volume that my Ibanez does and the body did not feel as balanced but if you did go that way, a lot of other people do like them they were just not for me.
 
I also had a Kelly, but mine was a Firefly. I got it for about $40, so I couldn't hardly pass it up, even though I really didn't need it. It was a very nicely made Chinese bass, but honestly, I never really dug AEB. I was so used to the profile and ergonomics of electrics, it always felt awkward.

Sure, if you want it to jam with an acoustic guitar on the beach, it'd be perfect, but me...I'm not really an "unplugged" guy.
 
Yeah, you're not going to get a whole heap of output from an acoustic bass as is. The MK is nice great for thumping around at home practicing or with the occasional acoustic guitar, but anything louder than a living room you're going to want to use the pickups or pick up the 'lectric and a small amp.
 
Save up a little more and hunt down a old Juzek carved bass. You will NEVER be disappointed. They can be repaired (rather easily, actually) and sound fantastic. More workmanship went into those than many acoustic basses costing 3x as much. It's common to find 50rd old models from High School bands, Orchestral surplus, etc. VERY solid feel and it's the REAL thing.These woods that were used, make the deal; it's astounding when you see an old Bass or piano made with quality...... But they exist & they are something that you KEEP. If you want acoustic; go with a real bass; you may never look back.
 

Latest posts