Are bass ukuleles "legit"?

[zubrycky]

Any instrument is legit, specially in the hands of the right player.

Here's few examples...

Recorder



Kazoo



Triangle



Ukulele

 

[Pops OB]

I rest my case:

 

[Spectrum]

 

[Rip Van Dan]

Your thoughts?

Haven't played it but have heard it played. It is able to produce more of a Upgright Bass sound than any other electric basses I've heard. Part of it of course is the weird set of strings that they use. But yeah, absolutely legit IMO.

 

[Diamond_Dave]

If it makes music and sounds good to YOU—then yes.

I mean, is this legit?

 

[G19Tony]

I vote yes.

 

[lermgalieu]

Whatever gets the job done

 

[obimark]

Any instrument is legit, specially in the hands of the right player.

Here's few examples...

Recorder



Kazoo



Triangle



Ukulele

I love the performance on Toccata, but why is the bass dude even playing? It doesn't sound like his amp is even on.

 

[Don Hergert]

I have and use a fretless Kala as a portable, and almost as fun, backup for my Alcoa double bass. Sounds good, almost a double bass caricature, plugged in. I probably wouldn't get a fretted uBass though.

I'm RV'ing 500 miles to a festival, can you guess which bass I am bringing? Hint: I'll be sleeping in the kitchenette.

 

[AboutSweetSue]

I’ve had one for about 6 months now. Thinking about selling it. I think it’s cool, sounds great and everything, but it’s just not for me.

 

[Bander]

Not a fan, but I'm indifferent if others like playing them.

 

[TheGreatSealof]

No. but fun at parties. Seriously. Fun.

 

[Axtman]

Yes!......no!......maybe.....what was the question again?

 

[bassrique]

This is what brought the UBass to my attention:

 

[JimmyM]

They're fine as long as you amplify them. They don't project a lot of sound acoustically, but they do OK for their small size.

 

[chadds]

The Uke and Bass Uke videos show that belief in their legitimacy is unnecessary. None of those players asked anyone for permission or approval while meanwhile demonstrating extreme virtuosity.

 

[jpmcbride]

they make non-rubbery strings for them, and i imagine they would be a more versatile playing experience.

I have the metal strings on mine and they're much better to play than the rubber ones. The rubber ones sound better, but the metal ones play much better. I found the rubber ones sticky, and they tend to stick and roll on the fretboard.

 

[Chickenwheels]

I’ve heard them played well live in the right context and they sound great!
I want to get one for a specific acoustic duo gig I do because the focus is more on songs/vocals. The U bass would probably sound better in that situation, especially plugged straight into the PA.
The venues are small so I’d take up less room!

 

[jpmcbride]

Truss rod adjust for increased tension?

Not necessary. The "metal" strings have a nylon core with metal wound over them. No increase in tension over the rubber ones.

 

[StatesideRambler]

I don’t own one but when I go to some acoustic jams the person who brings one usually doesn’t play it for some reason. I pick it up and, given a little time to acclimatize to the rubbery strings, I have a great time! If I unload a few more unplayed things I may well get one of my own.