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Double Bass BSX Megathread

#141
Hope you folks don't mind me jumping in here with some info ... this is actually Jill writing, Steve's in the shop working on instruments, as usual : )

Steve and Dino had some great conversations, during last week's NAMM show, about the evolving needs of bass players, especially the ongoing travel issues. It was great watching them with their heads together. The flight case solution Dino mentioned to Jason is something Steve tracked down, and that we've been modifying to suit our own purposes. Steve thought Dino could eventually find a use for it in his own way as well. So, if you want to see what it's all about, it's shown on our home page.

Philosophical note -
*****************************************************************
Steve has a lot of respect for Dino, and definitely would prefer that anyone who doesn't choose to play one of our basses decides to head in Dino's direction ... another guy who is building his basses here in the US, and really cares about each bass and each bassist who joins his family. It's frustrating for Steve and Dino to see people buying those factory-made Chinese basses, considering the impact on our economy and the environment, not to mention conditions for the workers actually making those "products" ... it's primarily the industry "middle men" who are profiting in those situations. Bassists need to really start thinking about those things. Luckily, for now, there are still enough bassists who seem to appreciate the art and passion Steve and Dino invest in what they do for you ... always trying to make things better, and easier for the player.
*******************************************************************

- Jill Azola
 
#142
I bought my knutson messenger bass back in 93 because it fit in most planes' overhead compartments. since those halcyon days of air travel it's become ridiculous even getting an eub on board sometimes. I've got an skb golf case that john knutson sells and it holds the bass sturdily. the only problem I've ever had with it is when baggage handlers are both inefficient and careless if they take out the bass and don't repack it the same way it was packed (i.e. with the headstock end sitting in the protective cone on inside of case). At this point I have completely given up even getting an EUB inside the cabin. I check it every time in it's case and sometimes get charged extra, sometimes not.
IMHO a smaller scale instrument is not the answer. I'd bring a Fender if that were the case. I would like to continue to see instruments being built that approximate AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE what we love about the double bass. I think R&D is better spent on making the whole unit (bass and case) more travel friendly. In a perfect world it would be able to fit inside the overhead compartment. In my world I'd settle for an instrument I don't have to fold up; that has a light, sturdy, manageable case that is easy to get up and down stairs with; can fit easily into cabs and that sounds good in various types of music. The knutson has pretty much done that except casewise. The case stands about 5 feet tall, doesn't always fit inside a cab (need a Lincoln town car trunk or minivan). It has wheels but pulling it while carrying your bags can be awkward if you have a long walk. The whole unit, bass and case is where I think the future lies.:)
 
#143
I would like to know more about the BSX series 2000 EUB that I have inherited from my uncle's estate. Since I am the bass player in the family, I guess I got this by default! I don't know too much about it other than it is a five string, white EUB. When were these made? Can I find the year on the instrument somewhere? What did they tend to cost new and what is market value now? If anybody wants to make me an offer, I would definitely consider it as I don't think that this instrument is my cup of tea. It comes with a gig bag.
Thanks!
Cliff
 
#145
After searching through 8 pages of this thread, I'm not sure why my original post was moved to the end of this thread, because it did not in any fashion assist me in my questions. Yes, I searched all 8 pages and found one reference to the BSX Series 2000 model, but it had nothing to do with my questions. Yes, I went to their website before I even thought that I would post to here. I also ran multiple searches on the BSX Series 2000 and came up pretty empty. That is why I turned to this outlet. Now my post has been buried at the end of 8 pages that nobody will see. Not exactly what I had in mind. I am aware of how to sell on this forum as I have sold two basses here already and have followed the forum rules to a "T".FWIW
Cliff
 
#146
roaddawg said:
After searching through 8 pages of this thread, I'm not sure why my original post was moved to the end of this thread, because it did not in any fashion assist me in my questions.
Click to expand...
Hi Cliff.
Simply because this thread is all about the BSX EUB.
If you look at the forum index, you'll see we have several similar megathreads for different EUB brands.
Yes, I searched all 8 pages and found one reference to the BSX Series 2000 model, but it had nothing to do with my questions. Yes, I went to their website before I even thought that I would post to here. I also ran multiple searches on the BSX Series 2000 and came up pretty empty. That is why I turned to this outlet. Now my post has been buried at the end of 8 pages that nobody will see. Not exactly what I had in mind.
Click to expand...
Depends on how you configure your settings on TB.
My own config is to see the newest posts first, and the oldest at the end.
You can change that if you wish.
Being harsh is not the best way to get help either.
I am aware of how to sell on this forum as I have sold two basses here already and have followed the forum rules to a "T".FWIW
Cliff
Click to expand...

I'm sorry you didn't find the answers to your question.
Maybe someone will jump in.
And did you try to email or phone Dino directly?
(I've tried email in the past but he never replied so calling him is probably the best way to get in touch)

Regards,
François
EUB forum co-mod.
 
#147
roaddawg said:
Now my post has been buried at the end of 8 pages that nobody will see.
Click to expand...
I sympathise, your question would have been seen more clearly in it's own thread with it's own subject. Maybe all these megathreads should be replaced with specialist sub-forums ? It's next to impossible to find the interesting post you once read in (say) the Palatino megathread or, even worse, the Lakland Owners Club which gets a new megathread about every 15 days I think.

Francois Blais said:
And did you try to email or phone Dino directly?
(I've tried email in the past but he never replied so calling him is probably the best way to get in touch)
Click to expand...
I agree with Monsieur Blais. Dino was hard to get in touch with by email, but is quick to respond to voicemails (if you have to leave one) and is super helpful on the phone.

Andy
 
#149
I have a 5 string BSX that used to be my main jazz axe long ago. I now play acoustic for jazz and classical, and Fender for rock, blues and pop. One style I don't play is authentic Latin; Salsa or Afro-Cuban.It is the one style I am least familiar with,and being that I live in the Bronx I think I should remedy that.
So, is it possible to get anything close
to the Latin thunk on my BSX by choosing the right strings? The axe has an intrinsic low action long sustain mwah sound with a little twang. Right now I have Helicore orchestras with a Jargar Forte low B. The right strings need to be heavy, as it plays with too loose tension due to the geometry of the string angles of neck and tailpiece. Thanks all.
 
#150
Fred W said:
So, is it possible to get anything close
to the Latin thunk on my BSX by choosing the right strings? The axe has an intrinsic low action long sustain mwah sound with a little twang. Right now I have Helicore orchestras with a Jargar Forte low B.
Click to expand...

You get long sustain and mwah even with these strings?
Maybe your action is set too low.
(or the fingerboard's scoop is too straight)
Typically, orchestral strings do provide a shorter sustain and more thump.
A full Jargar Forte set is an option.
However, raising the action could already be very helpful.
 
#151
Not much sustain on that Forte B string.The rest, yes. I was describing the intrinsic sound of the instrument, the result of many factors. Strings and string height are variables worth changing. Not so the fingerboard. I happened to score a little Latin Jazz gig last night, a good opportunity to try it out. Everyone liked the sound. Bridge is due for a raise, for sure. I'm thinking Jargar Forte set, also. Francois, you are right on. I would still like to hear from the collective TB wisdom.
 
#152
roaddawg said:
I would like to know more about the BSX series 2000 EUB that I have inherited from my uncle's estate. Since I am the bass player in the family, I guess I got this by default! I don't know too much about it other than it is a five string, white EUB. When were these made? Can I find the year on the instrument somewhere? What did they tend to cost new and what is market value now? If anybody wants to make me an offer, I would definitely consider it as I don't think that this instrument is my cup of tea. It comes with a gig bag.
Thanks!
Cliff
Click to expand...

Hi Cliff,

Just happened upon this post. My series 2000 bass, a 4 string model, is ~16 years old and it cost me 900 dollars including the standard BSX gig bag here on Talkbass around 5 years ago.

I see newer and (presumably) more desirable Allegros going for around $1000-1200 used occasionally around here. Dino told me that he would upgrade the pickups and bridge to what's in the Allegro for a pretty reasonable price, but I actually like my bass fine as-is, and prefer it to the Allegros I've played.

Feel free to PM me with any further questions. And as you probably have found out by now: call Dino, don't email.
 
#153
OK so I am not really following the thread but since it is the BSX thread I thought I'd say here that I just bought (should have it in hand by Monday) by first up-right. It is a new tobacco burst BSX Allegro. I had intended on spending a great deal more on a normal accoustic (and in time I will) but this seemed like a great way to get into the up-right and not need to buy a new car!

So I am finally about to join the world of up-rights. I think I will enjoy the challenges it will bring, and yes, I have already located a very experienced teacher!
 
#154
HELP! Anyone with a T-4 model please see my classifieds ad

http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?p=8335237#post8335237

I'm trying to find anyone that can give me any info on what is original and what isn't. I'm having trouble with getting a straight answer from Dino because I believe this would require him to write a lengthy email which I hear he is not popular on extended periods of communication. He's great if you know what you need and want already. I bought it this bass as it is now, from the pictures in the ad. I just want help identifying what is it that sets it apart from a T-4 at factory specs. I don't see the pickup sensor on musicians friend or any other pictures. PLease help!
 
#155
I have a BSX T4 and am very pleased with it

Sorry to hear about your bass
Looks like your uncle ripped out the BSX piezo and started to put another in

Dino is right and it is going to be expensive
He has to replace the bridge and the 4 piezo's
BSX Piezo's are mounted in the bridge under the strings , not under the feet like my Aria or my Realist

As for a straight answer
I think Dino gave you the best answer he could without having the bass in front of him

I thinks its worth it to spend the $375 to get it in top working shape . You inherited the bass , keep your uncle's memory alive by playing it

Thanks

Robert VanLane

Jackkoon said:
HELP! Anyone with a T-4 model please see my classifieds ad

http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?p=8335237#post8335237

I'm trying to find anyone that can give me any info on what is original and what isn't. I'm having trouble with getting a straight answer from Dino because I believe this would require him to write a lengthy email which I hear he is not popular on extended periods of communication. He's great if you know what you need and want already. I bought it this bass as it is now, from the pictures in the ad. I just want help identifying what is it that sets it apart from a T-4 at factory specs. I don't see the pickup sensor on musicians friend or any other pictures. PLease help!
Click to expand...
 
#156
Jackkoon said:
I'm trying to find anyone that can give me any info on what is original and what isn't. I'm having trouble with getting a straight answer from Dino because I believe this would require him to write a lengthy email which I hear he is not popular on extended periods of communication.
Click to expand...

Dino has been very communicative with me verbally. He apparently hates email, which I can relate to myself, although for me I hate the phone a lot more. Anyhow, call him up and arrange a time to talk to him when he's not busy elsewhere.

The bridge is expensive because it actually is the pickup system as well. In my experience it works really well, and would be worth what he wants for a re-fit.

Check your PMs, please. I'd like to discuss this bass a bit more with you offline.
 
#157
Hi I have an Allegro bass, it' s very good e.u.b. very well made and very confortable but his sound is too much "natural" & meowing for salsa & timba,is perfect for Jazz.
I 'm a salsa player & I use to rent my bsx to Los Van Van & Revè for local concerts here and i repeat it sounds good but it has too much sustain, trying to get that sound I put on some gaffa tape in the string near the bridge,I also put on a felt down on the strings in the bridge but...no way...it doesn't satisfy me,
with my Sadowsky with a rag for muting the string I rich to get a very good sound similar to the baby bass and it results better than the bsx.
For me the instrument for salsa is the Ampeg baby bass or copy.
I don't know why does anyone sells an ampeg style replacement up.

Excuse me for my english :-)

Con mucho sabor

Stefano Casti


Link Removed (the promo is record with my sadowsky)
 
#159
Stefano -

Francois is correct. I also thought my BSX Allegro had too much sustain. Its a great sound, but I thought the excessively long sustain made it sound too much like an electric guitar. I wanted a sound more like my regular upright bass.

I've got Thomastic Belcantos on my BSX now. This is more of an "orchestral" string, and I really like how it sounds. Still great sustain, but a decay that sounds more like a regular upright. And they bow easier too!

You can check out the string threads to make a guess at what might match the sound you are trying to get out of your BSX. That is what I did.

Hope that helps
 
#160
A couple of days ago I received my 4 strings Allegro in impeccable condition. I must admit that I was pretty nervous about the whole thing. I purchased it from a stranger far away, in the USA... Nothing ever went as smoothly. Dino, the EUB builder in person, has been handling all my questions - and I had a lot of them - personally.
And he is used to making packages for oversea trades, that's obvious! :p I had a lot of fun unpacking...


He made me a beautiful dark coloured instrument! It sounds as dark as it's colour and yet again the sound is very straight-forward. It feels soft but incredibly steady.
And man, I cannot stop watching it! I'm more than delighted by the sheer beauty of it.

In other words all my senses are enchanted!

I really believe that it takes an artist to make such a appealing design,
it takes an artist to make it feel the way it looks and
it takes an artist to create this kind of sound!

For some reason he brought all of it together in this instrument: he truly is an artistic genius!

I'm happy like a child! :hyper:
I enjoy this instrument so much! And I will try my best to do it justice...
 
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