Double Bass How do I tell if this really is a Shen?

[fishstick666]

This is a local CL bass I'm interested in - the seller states it's a Shen Hybrid. He originally said it was a "Chen," but when I clarified, he said "Shen."

He says there are no identifying marks on it - is there a way to tell if it really is Shen?

 

[Steve Swan]

There will be a label visible through the bass-side F-hole that will tell you the model and year. Good luck!

 

[Thumpie]

Some of them say "Shen" on the button. Look there first.

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[fishstick666]

Thanks Steve and Thumpie!

No visible markings, no label inside the body... The seller states Lemur identified it as a Shen while being setup.

Does that sound right?

 

[Steve Swan]

That does not sound right.

 

[arnoldschnitzer]

Do I see outside rib linings on that thing? If so, it's not a Shen.

 

[fishstick666]

I think I'm going to pass on it - for the money he's asking, I'd really like to know the maker.

Thanks for the help everyone!

 

[Thumpie]

Take it to a luthier and have it checked out. You should probably do this anyway even if it is a Shen.

 

[symcbass]

Shen owner, doesn't look like a Shen.

 

[Nuggulux]

It may be a Shen, but it's not a Samuel Shen.

 

[jdepriest]

Shen owner, doesn't look like a Shen.

Another Shen owner here. doesn't look right to me either.

 

[Hector Wolff]

I own two Shens, that doesn't look like any I've seen. Those outside linings (?) I've never seen on a Shen.

 

[fishstick666]

One of the reasons I love Talkbass! Thanks everyone for the help and info!

 

[dkziemann]

Definitely not a Shen-- pass!