Hello all. I’ve played bass off and on for 50 years (more off than on, and I haven’t played in 13 years). One of the basses I owned during that time was a Gibson EB3, short scale. It was purchased in 1972 or 1973. It was not the best year for quality and I sold it in 1980. I loved the short scale. I have smaller hands, and the short scale and very narrow neck made the bass almost play itself. What would you suggest for a new short scale that isn’t outlandish in price? I like a deep, mellow sound and use flatwounds. Thank you.
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Looking to buy a short scale bass
- Thread starter The Old One
- Start date
Thank you. They are beautiful, but more than I want to spend.
For not an outlandish price, perhaps look into offerings by 7ender Squier or Epiphone.
Looks like I may need to adjust my price horizon to up to $2500 to $3000. Any suggestions for the best 4 string short scale in that layer of the atmosphere?
Short scale, very narrow neck, deep mellow sound? You are a prime candidate for getting a Höfner Club Bass (more ergonomic and less McCartney-wannabe-vibes than a violin bass).
Affordable options are the Ignition series (real hollowbody) or the contemporary (semi-hollow with center block).
For flatwounds for this bass I recommend LaBella 760FHB2 set - easy to play, sounds great (I've tried many different types of flats on my own Club, these were my favorite ones), and this particular set is made especially for Höfner basses with their trapeze tailpieces and small tuners.
Affordable options are the Ignition series (real hollowbody) or the contemporary (semi-hollow with center block).
For flatwounds for this bass I recommend LaBella 760FHB2 set - easy to play, sounds great (I've tried many different types of flats on my own Club, these were my favorite ones), and this particular set is made especially for Höfner basses with their trapeze tailpieces and small tuners.
If you want a one and done approach with no modding, I would look for a Schecter Banshee or Sterling StingRay. I like LaBella flats.
- Oct 22, 2015
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I don't think you need to spend that much but since I'm shopping with your money, have a look at Serek. I haven't had the chance to play one, but by all accounts, they are fine instruments. Another premium choice would be a Spector Bantam. If you want something more traditional, Fender Japan makes short scale P and J basses, or have a look at a short scale Stingray. Personally, I love my Nordstrand Acinonyx V2 but they are no longer being made. If you haven't looked at the many short scale threads, you have a lot of catching up to do!
