Best custom built basses?

[jbybj]

If you are looking for a list I can get that started (with some that have been said here). Note there is no reason for order, just as I remember them

Alembic
Devon
Fodera
Valenti
Serek
Torzal
Carl Thompson
Hilton Basses
Ritter

Let me think of a few more top notch builders

Pat Wilkins

 

[alaskaleftybass]

Pat Wilkins

If I was in the market for a PJ clone it definitely would be Wilkins. However I'm on a MusicMan kick so I'm looking for a custom builder who does MusicMan style basses, maybe even short scale.

 

[Watchootognbout]

Best for what?
Only you can decide.

 

[BasEd]

Do you own a Sire? If so, is it true that they're heavy? I've kicked around buying one of their lefty's but a couple TB'ers said that they're 9-10 pounds. Your experiencs, or anyone else on this thread?

I’ve had Sires ranging from 8lb 13oz to 9lb 13oz. If you buy Mailorder insist that the shop weighs the bass first.

 

[Manuel Bass]

Do you own a Sire? If so, is it true that they're heavy? I've kicked around buying one of their lefty's but a couple TB'ers said that they're 9-10 pounds. Your experiencs, or anyone else on this thread?

Yes I have a v7 5 strings ash body, maple fingerboard May be it’s a little heavy but it’s really a beautiful bass super wide range sounding and perfect craftsmanship and remember alder body are lighter
Good luck bro

 

[dramatwist]

...how could so many bassists respond to this? If you're buying a name on the headstock, any of the above stuff would be fine. If you want a GOOD bass, trust only your ear... most bassists on TB just want approval and praise for their expensive choices.

 

[Manuel Bass]

...how could so many bassists respond to this? If you're buying a name on the headstock, any of the above stuff would be fine. If you want a GOOD bass, trust only your ear... most bassists on TB just want approval and praise for their expensive choices.

I don’t care anything but the sound and the price

 

[Jeff Siddall]

Counterpoint: I care about pretty much every aspect of my basses

 

[Manuel Bass]

Counterpoint: I care about pretty much every aspect of my basses

Counterpoint 2 : this is my main bass
You can start laughing

 

[Jeff Siddall]

Counterpoint 2 : this is my main bass
You can start laughing

Not laughing at all. If you made (or bought) that bass the way it is by choice then I think we are really saying the same thing.

 

[Eddie LeBlanc]

the girls.....

 

[daysleeper]

Ordering a custom instrument requires some knowledge of the expected results. Further, there's a significant risk that comes with (expensive) trial and error that the first one, or the first several, won't meet expectations.

Given this, it is foolish for someone who has not played the instrument in a long time to jump into the custom world. How can he possibly know what he's looking for?

It would make more sense to get a stock Fender bass and play it for a while. This will start building the foundation of knowledge.

 

[alaskaleftybass]

It doesn't have to be a Fender. Almost all the manufacturers are putting out good stock basses nowadays. Too many to mention or remember for me...

 

[stoyo]

hi everyone,

Who builds the best custom basses these days and what are the prices?
I'm looking for a new instrument but haven't played electric bass for many years so I don't know where to look...
Thanks!

Warwick builds epic custom basses

 

[PeteOlig]

hi everyone,

Who builds the best custom basses these days and what are the prices?
I'm looking for a new instrument but haven't played electric bass for many years so I don't know where to look...
Thanks!

Devon makes some outstanding basses. I own two Muckelroy basses, and could not be happier. After 44 years of playing, I finally have basses that are perfect for me.

 

[Manuel Bass]

Devon makes some outstanding basses. I own two Muckelroy basses, and could not be happier. After 44 years of playing, I finally have basses that are perfect for me.

You are a lucky guy when this happens it’s a miracle and not occurs often , mayority of musician never found his “ home instrument” enjoy it bro

 

[Bigal1369]

I would have to Agree!

I'd have to say this is probably my favorite so far....

!

 

[Rbradley649]

Devon gets my vote. I own 2 and a 3rd will be own the way soon.
View attachment 3570367

Loooooove the one on the right!! Can you post a short clip of you playing it? Would love to hear that one!!

 

[Jeff Scott]

Martin Keith makes the best basses. As to price, you will have to contact Martin directly to discuss that.

Martin Keith Guitars

 

[Dreamsinger]

hi everyone,

Who builds the best custom basses these days and what are the prices?
I'm looking for a new instrument but haven't played electric bass for many years so I don't know where to look...
Thanks!

It's purely subjective and there is no single answer but I know a lot of luthiers and I've played for 50 years. My personal Holy Grail is a Ken Lawrence. Not only are his woodworking skills off the charts but he's an outstanding bassist.