Help me choose one. Etude, Cecilio or Palatino

Please see this link: Beginners Guide to Buying a Double Bass | TalkBass.com

In short, none of these three items are considered actual instruments. They're what's commonly known as BSOs, or Bass Shaped Objects. They're about as musical as a cardboard guitar.

This is not snobbery, but a physical fact of instrument construction. BSOs are expensive disappointments meant to capitalize on ignorance. They are an unfortunate distraction, and often the first hazard a beginning player must avoid.

Reputable (as in actual) new instruments begin at about $1500.

 

Shen SB-80.

 

@mintseta .. I'm in the same boat you are. I've been on slab for about 6 years, looking towards my first upright near the end of the year, or after the new year.

Definitely, as @KUNGfuSHERIFF suggested and check out the Shens, and Upton Standard Laminate
Good luck!

 

What they said. Just made the same decision. Shen SB-80 is a nice sounding choice-- I actually prefer the SB-88. Actually, I prefer blondes, but I digress. Look for used ones within driving distance. Rent one first if you can. Williams Fine Violins in Nashville, if you are close enough, is awesome and has a great rental program too. If not, look for others around you. Play multiple basses. Be prepared to fall in love with one outside your price range. Get the big girl in your price range that calls to you and play it every day. Realize that this is your first and probably not your last bass.

Hope that helps. Enjoy!

 

I am a new player (switched over from BG), and I have a Shen. They are excellent basses and well worth the money, in my opinion. Also upright basses are not like bass guitars--you are really much better off if you can find one to rent or buy from a local shop, where they will perform a competent set up for you.

 

+1 for a Shen and try to buy from an actual string shop as opposed to Amazon/Samash/Guitar Center. A set up in the upright bass world is hundreds of dollars that you'll be tacking onto the price to have a playable instrument otherwise.