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For my first upright....Is a 1995 Engelhardt C-1 for $950?

Discussion in 'Basses [DB]' started by DarthSquidius, Dec 19, 2014.

  1. Dec 19, 2014 #1
    DarthSquidius

    DarthSquidius

    Dec 19, 2014
    Nashville TN
    Hi Everyone! Im Chris from Nashville. I have been an avid reader of this forum for a little while now. But I figured since Im finally in a spot to buy a double bass, I should make an account. Anyway, I have found a bass made by Engelhardt. It wasnt a model that I could find mentioned in the forum, but maybe Im terrible at searching. If that is the case, I apologize in advance.

    Anyway, its a 1995 Engelhardt C-1. He was asking for $1200. I talked him down to $950, plus hes throwing in a soft case. Here is the ad with pictures.

    http://nashville.craigslist.org/msg/4805934218.html

    Unfortunately, I dont know any upright players to take with me when I check this thing out. I was hoping some of you all could tell me what you know about it, and if it seems like a good deal? I really will appreciate any and all feedback!

    Take care!


    BTW, Im looking to play bluegrass and rockabilly. Thanks!
     
  2. Dec 19, 2014 #2
    KUNGfuSHERIFF

    KUNGfuSHERIFF

    Feb 8, 2002
    Upstate NY
    Those have their issues, the worst of which is that model typically has a maple fingerboard that has been painted black. That's bad for two reasons: It does not add significant stiffness to the (very skinny) neck as would ebony or a harder wood, and maple is not very resistant to string wear meaning it will have to be tended to often replaced relatively quickly. A new fingerboard will cost about as much as the bass is worth.

    In terms of that particular bass, as these things usually go, he's dreaming on his asking price. A new EC-1 will run you about $1200 and a used one should sell for no more than $800. Why don't you make an appointment to visit Dustin Williams and see what he has or can order? A good friend of mine recently bought a vintage plywood bass from Williams and was very happy with the experience.
     
    james condino likes this.
  3. Dec 19, 2014 #3
    DarthSquidius

    DarthSquidius

    Dec 19, 2014
    Nashville TN
    Thats excellent advice. Im going to find the time tomorrow to meet with him at his shop. I dont want to take finding the right bass lightly.

    Thank you!
     
  4. Dec 22, 2014 #4
    DarthSquidius

    DarthSquidius

    Dec 19, 2014
    Nashville TN
    So, after meeting with Dustin, his concerns reflected yours. He recommended a Shen. He had a couple in stock. A good thing about his shop is that he offers 100% trade in/trade up. Plus his instruments are set up to his standards and not the Shen set up. The basses felt comfortable and I felt really good about the experience. Unfortunately the bass Im into at his shop, plus a bag is going to run me about $1000 more than the Engelhardt posted above. So Im going to have to wait a little longer before buying it. But, this isnt something I want to rush into.

    Thanks for helping me avoid a huge mistake!
     
    Last edited: Dec 22, 2014
    KUNGfuSHERIFF likes this.
  5. Dec 22, 2014 #5
    sean_on_bass

    sean_on_bass

    Dec 29, 2005
    USA
    I'd recommend renting if at all possible. I've had a good experience renting so far, and it is helping me make an informed decision when i finally decide to buy my own. Many shops seem to offer a rent to own type deal, so each monthly rental payment in some way goes towards the purchase price of a new bass.
     
    KUNGfuSHERIFF likes this.