Hello all, I'm in the market for a double bass, after recently joining a folk band. I would really like to try out an upright before buying and my price range for a bass is sub-$3k, including a good set of strings and electronics. Is there anywhere in Tennessee to go to try some out?
Hey Grizzly,
I highly suggest not buying an upright bass unless it is something you have had experience with in the past. I played upright for 4 years in my high school's jazz band and wind ensemble and, while I have a deep love for the instrument, it's not something I'd want to own unless I was mainly a double bassist. Transporting those beasts (even a 3/4 size) is very difficult unless you have a big enough car or truck (and even then it's cumbersome).
You'll also most likely have to invest in a mic/DI for the bass as well, as it likely won't be loud enough in many gigging situations. Then you have to consider learning how to play the instrument, which takes time as it is a very, very physical instrument.
I really suggest looking into a hollow or semi-hollow bass guitar with flatwound strings and a foam mute first. It'll cost less, be easier to transport, and will get you in the ballpark as far as tone is concerned. It won't be able to nail an uprights tone completely, but I think it'd be close enough to make you, your band, and the audience happy.
If you still feel the need to try out an upright, there's a store in oldtown Knoxville that sells gear like uprights, banjos, fiddles, and other types of instruments. I can't remember the name of the store, but see if you can find it via google. At least then you can get your hands on one and see if it's something you really want.
