Double Bass Kay Bass Information?

[Bass Stream]

Like many others on the forums, I've been playing electric bass and wanting to transition to upright bass. The information here is very informative but I still am undecided which bass to purchase. I have looked at the Shen line and also at a used Kay.

Could anyone shed some light on a Kay bass with serial # 29656. The luthier went over the bass with me and said it was in very good shape for it's age. It looked and sounded good to me...but then again...

Thanks! Bob

 

[MarkWHolbrook]

I moved from drums to electric bass to electric guitar to double bass. I have been studying DB for a little over a year. It is very different than the EB, with reading music after years of 3 chord rock and roll, and the bowing is difficult. I would suggest you find a good deal or rent a workable DB and bow and take lessons. If you find you don't like the instrument at all you can cancel a rental deal or sell an inexpensive DB pretty fast in most areas. I am renting a Cremona SB-2 which gets terrible reviews, but I find the one I have sounds pretty good when set up properly and hasn't had any structural problems. I don't have any experience with Kay basses but they should be better than the one I'm using!

 

[Jeff Bonny]

If your guy says its good go for it. The double bass is a lifetime commitment and life is short. Many of us started on a decent Kay with no regrets.

And put some basic info in your profile page if you want replies that speak more directly to you.

 

[Greg Clinkingbeard]

That Kay bass was made in 1952 Invalid Link Removed

Kays can be very nice basses. A common complaint about them is the thin neck which can hinder proper left hand technique. Another issue with the neck is that many of them develop a bow, requiring a new fingerboard and possibly a carbon fiber rod for reinforcement. I have a nice thick fingerboard on mine and would take it over a Shen any day. Different strokes.

 

[Bass Stream]

Thanks for the prompt replies. Sounds like this bass is an antique like me... Will give this some thought and taking a second look at these basses on Tuesday. Good point on a rental unit. Will keep you posted. Here are some pictures of the bass...

Bob