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My husband died and left a Pensa...

Could someone tell me approximately the value of it? I know it's a custom and I have a young son and am thinking it would be wise to hold onto it for him and not sell it. He had a LOT of bass guitars and guitars and we won't have room for them all--but seeing the word "custom" on it made me think it was probably something worth keeping. I couldn't find a price on the net anywhere and figured thiis might be the place to come and ask....thanks. Oh, and I'm not looking for a specific price, just ballpark...tks.

You could try contacting the manufacturer(first google hit with the keywords Pensa Custom), they would have a lot more information about this particular bass.

http://www.pensaguitars.com
 
I am truly saddened to hear of your loss.
Please accept my condolences.

Thank you for finding TalkBass and sharing John’s story.
Just as you’ve said finding TalkBass has done something positive for you; you’ve done the same for us.
You’ve reminded us what life is truly about; relationships, family, community.
John would have been a great addition to the TalkBass community. I’m sorry we didn’t know him.

Regarding your questions about his gear; there have been some great suggestions here about foundations, scholarships and donations. That fits perfectly with his desire to inspire kids with music.

Personally, I hope my instruments become heirlooms.
I have my grandfather’s mandolin from when he played in a band in the 40’s.
Even though I don’t know how to play it, I treasure it.
I know you can’t keep everything but try to picture a few choice pieces in the hands of your children’s children and you can imagine John’s legacy lasting for a long, long time.

My heart goes out to you and your family.

Sincerely,
Chad
 
This thread gives me goosebumps. It's really touching, and the entire TalkBass community is behind you. Pictures of your late husband's equipment will help us, and you, identify some prices. Some of these guys are ridiculous at knowing equipment--even with no labels on them.
 
I'm playing in church on Sunday, your husband will be in my thoughts as I do so.

Amen to that, Scoopbass!

I'm glad I found you guys, kinda makes me feel closer to him. He'd love that I'm here. :)

We're just as glad to have you here!

I agree with Spector_Ray 100% and +1 to Thunderwood! It's so great to see all the care and support that people have posted so far. I also hope you keep posting here... just because YOU might not play bass doesn't mean you can't contribute to this community and you're certainly welcome!

Like Scoopbass, I play in a church choir and your family will be in my thoughts as I play on Sunday as well.

5sg
 
You guys are the best. I had to come on to let you know while going through John's stuff I found a multitude of tapes that he made of him jammin' with his buds...there must be over a dozen or so..:bassist: . What a beautiful gift for my kids...my dream is that one of them (or both of them) learn to play bass like their dad (or any other instrument, for that matter) and they listen to those tapes and tell me "WOW--he REALLY was a great musician!"...:)
 
I am very sorry for the sudden loss of your husband. I just said a prayer for you and your family and wish you well.

The Pensa bass is a well made instrument and probably worth a lot of money. It is rare to see them for sale.
 
I'm thinking 2001-2002, before you met him. He created a great work environment for all who were employed with him. I used to go there and hang out with the crew even when I wasn't rehearsing or had any other business there. Before I left NYC in 2002, I'd say 3 of his employees were some of my closest running buddies. I think I even took over the front desk once or twice! Yeah, he was one of the good ones.

Regarding the value of his gear, I strongly suggest you post some pics and maybe serial #'s here. This is one of the coolest forums in all the internet, with the best and most honest people. Must be a bass thing. Anyway, you will get an honest assessment of the value free of charge and may even be able to sell the bass stuff here. Quality gear moves quickly on this site.

When I hit happy hour in Santa Monica later, I'm gonna have a drink in his honor for sure.

If you're up for a Guinness, that would be great.. I'm sure I knew your buds--or knew of them. John was a great boss, that's for sure--I'm afraid ol' Funkadelic will never be the same. He had--or should I say, we HAVE-- some gorgeous kids--pm if you like, I'd be happy to send you a photo of them.

Karen
 
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss.
I can't imagine your pain, but pray for you and your young family. Add me to the church playin' bassists here who will be praying tonight as well as Sunday morning.

Wow, what a place - I'm really proud of this community.
 
You guys are the best. I had to come on to let you know while going through John's stuff I found a multitude of tapes that he made of him jammin' with his buds...there must be over a dozen or so..:bassist: . What a beautiful gift for my kids...my dream is that one of them (or both of them) learn to play bass like their dad (or any other instrument, for that matter) and they listen to those tapes and tell me "WOW--he REALLY was a great musician!"...:)

Hello,

My condolences as well - always sad to lose someone, but doubly so when young & leaving behind a young family. :(

As for tapes - a lot of magnetic tape simply doesn't age well, and tape as a technology in general is on the way out. You may wish to get this stuff backed up when you find a moment, as finding a machine to play tape back when your kids are old enough to appreciate it may be problematic.

Feel free to PM me if you need more info/help.

Best wishes,
GT