Howdy folks, I am thinking of buying a Danelectro bass either the DC Shorthorn long scale or short scale. They have a nice growl for the Phil Lesh roundwound era and with flats it has a nice hollow early Dead bass tone. Would the hollow construction of the bass be good for a decent Dead bass tone?
yeah, i have one for sale on reverb, all original 1965, its a short scale. it's the short horn 3412 model. always wanted one, enjoyed it, it's woody, that 3 way switch gives you bass, grind, or twang. pretty cool.
i just pulled the listing, i'm listing it here instead. i forgot i could sell here and like an idiot put it on reverb where i'll get killed with fees. here's the listing For Sale - 1965 Danelectro 3412 Short Horn Short Scale Electric Bass Guitar w/ HSC
I think half-wound strings on just about any bass and that muted picked style you can get the early Phil tones with the right amount of gain from your amp. I've had success with a Hofner Ignition even getting those tones. As for the rounds era type stuff something more modern of a bass might get you closer. I'd look more into Guild Starfire territory myself for being a more all around instrument to try and nail both sounds