High end copies

[jworrellbass]

What does something like that cost, if you don't mind me asking.

 

[KJung]

What does something like that cost, if you don't mind me asking.

The 'high end J' type basses range in price from around $2,000 to around $4,000, depending on brand and options. A typical model from a high end builder like Sadowsky, Nordstrand, Alleva-Coppolo, etc. costs in the low to mid $3K range. If you go crazy with 75 year old Brazilian Rosewood boards, nitro finishes and AAAAA tops, these basses can get to $4K and more. Some small volume builders that do most things 'by hand' (i.e., no CNC machinces, etc.) can really be expensive (Celinder, for example).

FYI

 

[jworrellbass]

Really, I'm happy with $2000 for one of mine. But then I'm not well know.

 

[KJung]

Really, I'm happy with $2000 for one of mine. But then I'm not well know.

+1 That's why Vinnie Fodera gets $7,500-$10,000 for one of his basses, and Chris Stambaugh, who IMO puts out a product every bit as good, commands only $2,000-$3,000. Brand recognition, awareness and reputation, like in any category, drives the price-worth more than time and materials.

 

[spade2you]

+1 That's why Vinnie Fodera gets $7,500-$10,000 for one of his basses, and Chris Stambaugh, who IMO puts out a product every bit as good, commands only $2,000-$3,000. Brand recognition, awareness and reputation, like in any category, drives the price-worth more than time and materials.

IMHO, you can't beat the value of a luthier who is experience, but hasn't quite caught on....yet. Speaking to guys like Cliff Bordwell, putting a nice bass in the hands of a TBer can effectively build up a strong reputation without a single dime spent on advertising.

A strength of a lot of relatively new luthiers has been to listen to what bassists say some companies aren't willing to do, then specializing in that! It's easy to command and conquer where others fear to tread.

 

[KJung]

IMHO, you can't beat the value of a luthier who is experience, but hasn't quite caught on....yet. Speaking to guys like Cliff Bordwell, putting a nice bass in the hands of a TBer can effectively build up a strong reputation without a single dime spent on advertising.

A strength of a lot of relatively new luthiers has been to listen to what bassists say some companies aren't willing to do, then specializing in that! It's easy to command and conquer where others fear to tread.

I agree 100%. Chris Stambaugh, Pete Skjold and others are putting out amazing products that are really a deal compared to the more established luthiers.

 

[jworrellbass]

A strength of a lot of relatively new luthiers has been to listen to what bassists say some companies aren't willing to do, then specializing in that! It's easy to command and conquer where others fear to tread.[/QUOTE]

Thats the main reason I asked the question in the first place, I was looking to hear from bassist and the reasoning behind thier choices. A few guys really stepped up with good answers, I've learned a great deal on this thread. Thanks to all of you!

 

[BartmanPDX]

What does something like that cost, if you don't mind me asking.

KJung provided a more complete answer, but in my case it was over $4k due to the uber-fancy burl top and birdseye FB.

I should also have mentioned that the light weight of the (chambered) NYC Sadowskys was a factor too. I've had back surgery and our gigs are usually four hours or more. A pound or two in weight savings means a heck of a lot to me.

Best of luck with your business. Although it must be hard to get started and recognized, I can't imagine a cooler profession than to build basses.

 

[KJung]

Thats the main reason I asked the question in the first place, I was looking to hear from bassist and the reasoning behind thier choices. A few guys really stepped up with good answers, I've learned a great deal on this thread. Thanks to all of you!

One thing you might want to do is watch the 'Social' section of this site for GTG's (get togethers) in your general area. There's nothing better for getting your name around (at least on TB) than bringing a couple of instruments to these type of hangs. Pete Skjold, Nino Valenti and others have done a good job of getting some of their very nice instruments into TBers hands at these things.

Good luck!

 

[jworrellbass]

Yea, there's one in Denver this weekend. I'm planning on it. Thanks.