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Custom Bass questions...

Visirale

Visirale

Mar 23, 2003
3,043
6
37
Orlando
#1
So I've run across some funds (isn't that always great?) and as always, it's burning a hole into my pocket.

So I've been playing for about 4 years now, and I've gotten pretty good. I'm going to be doing music in college. You can see my sig to see my current set-up... For my next bass, I want to replace the cort for my "uprightish" electric bass.

At first I thought about getting one of those squier jaco basses, but I really don't want a squier bass, haha. Then I thought, well why not just get custom. It's a bit more pricey, and I'd have to wait a little longer, but I'd be down for it if the sound was great.

I was thinking warmoth parts... but I really don't know how to assemble a bass, and with IB Exams and my busy schedule this year, I don't really have time to learn. So any idea on how to go about getting a 4 or 5 string fretless (I think this is the best way to go for the upright sound, right?) bass?

Price range is from 500-2000 I think, depending on how long I want to wait :P.
 
#2
With what little you've given us to go on, it's hard to make a recommendation. I would suggest reading as many of the existing threads about custom basses as you can stand, as that will give you more of an idea of what's out there. Check out this thread for some good input. Also search for the "custom bass wait support group" thread.

Maybe mention here more about what style or sound or playing technique you're after. Good luck!
 
#7
Sorry I didn't catch the price at first. $2000-$3000 will definately get you alot of bass. Makers like FBB and Stambaugh would make you a great bass for that amount. I've personnally had two FBB basses and I highly recommend them. I've heard a few FBB fretless basses and they sounds extra good. Just make sure you know exactly what you want in a custom.
 
#8
vindy500 said:
so youre looking for a jazz esque one?
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Yes. I want this one to be sweet, dark, and mellow as can be. My stingray takes care of pretty much everything but the upright sound.

I was thinking maybe a single-cut. I used to hate them, but they are definitely growing on me. I also want dark (tint, not sound) wood... on the top at least. I was thinking ebony for the fingerboard, since that's what uprights use.

I was definitely thinking of a piezo too, because I hear they go a long way in getting the upright tone.

And before someone says "Why don't you just get an upright?" don't. I do have one, and I really don't like it. I just want a sweet fretless sound (not jaco :P)...
 
#12
#15
Haha, well just to clarify, I have $300 in hand right now, haha. I'm talking about getting this by July 2007 at the latest. My budget depends on how long I wait to buy it.

The used fretless rob allen on Bass NW does look nice. I do like the maple in that one... but I think walnut is my favorite. I'll see what his quote is on the custom I sent him. If not, I'll keep my eyes peeled on the used market.

Haha, now I just need to sell some more stuff.

Bye bye EM1 upright :)

Hello Mr. Allen...
 
#17
tplyons said:
How old are you!?!?

I can't even imagine justifying 3k for a bass. I can barely justify that for a car. I'm just plain jealous.
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I'll be 18 by the time I get it. Haha I just love the sound of that bass... I mean if you haven't heard this yet...

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I drool every time I hear that.

I'll probably end up getting used so I won't have to wait as long. But that's ok by me.

That's what I love about buying music stuff though. It isn't like buying food. When you are done with your food, that's it. But when you get tired of musical equipment, someone else out there wants your old stuff and they'll pay for it.
 
#19
Visirale said:
I'll be 18 by the time I get it. Haha I just love the sound of that bass... I mean if you haven't heard this yet...

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Click to expand...
Great sound, great bass, but it doesn't sound like an upright to me. Try this one

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You can find it here, click doublebass.

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#20
Man this is liking ordering a custom bicycle without ever riding one????? Before you order a custom bass you'd better know exactly what you want. Go to a big music store like Chuck Levins and spend a day just playing basses. Play everyting from a Ken Smith to a Squire, don't rule anything out.
 

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