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Double Bass Damaged Ribs

S

SplitNick

Aug 1, 2003
345
5
North Alabama, Huntsville
www.myspace.com
#1
One of my students has an Eastman bass, model 200. It is a good student instrument. I noticed, however, that the ribs seem to have one ripple that runs consistently around the bass. This ripple is pretty much centered between the top and back.

I can't think of this being due to normal pressures of the double bass, and if it is indeed damage and not just a construction flaw, I imagine it is due to some sort of trauma.

I do not have pictures, but I would appreciate any input into the seriousness of this condition.
 
#2
On a commercially made bass, that is a puzzle.

If it was one of my instruments, I would think I had tightened the spool clamps too much during final assembly. I have done that one before, but never all the way around...usually just in one quarter.

Odd.
 
#3
I wouldnt underestimate "normal pressures of the double bass." This doesnt just include the 250-350+ lbs of string tension but also the constant battle of wood and moisture. The 200 is a carved model, yes? And as these pieces of wood are inhaling or exhaling moisture, trying to come to equilibrium with the environment around it, they swell and contract. Its only a small percentage; but on such large chunks of wood, these marginal chances add up. Often the top and back are moving in very different ways and the ribs end up taking the majority of the abuse.

Sharp changes in the climate are the most dangerous. Down there in the south, you'll enjoy fairly moist and consistent climate till you get those once in a while cold fronts when the jet stream dips down low bringing cold DRY air. Compound this with central heat and you could desiccate your poor bass into pieces.

With out any cracks opened up on the 200 in question (and without seeing it ourselves) it sound like you're not in trouble at the moment. But keep and eye on it and note any changes. And keep an eye on the hydrometer...
 

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