Double Bass NXT4 vs. Azola Bugbass II

[Yamarc]

Which one would you choose and why so? Thanks in advance!

 

[dylanjohnson]

Azola. Sound more like a DB and less like a fretless. Feels more like one, too.

 

[J R Knots]

I own NXT5 and it sounds great but it sounds much different than my upright.

I originally thought it would offer a nice Double Bass sound but it has it’s own sound. It really has an outstanding Fretless sound and provides a decent amplified bass sound.

Have never tried the Azola bass.

 

[Yamarc]

I wish I could get fret markers installed on the fingerboard of the Azola like the NXT. Would probably choose it if so...steep learning curve otherwise.

 

[brianrost]

Since Azola is long out of business, any Bug you find will be used. A good luthier could add dots to either the top of the fingerboard, the side of the fingerboard or both. I have an Azola MiniBass that has side dots and I don't believe they came from the factory.

Dots are only approximate anyway. When you raise or lower the action, change string gauges, etc. where the notes lie on the fingerboard will move slightly.

What worked for me as a total beginner to the DB was to put some adhesive dots on the side of the fingerboard like you would see on a bass guitar. I only marked the G on the E, the B on the E and the octave. As I was gigging, the dots would eventually fall off. After a while I didn't bother to replace them, by the time they had all fallen off I no longer needed them

 

[leona1]

Azola

 

[Slevage]

I wish I could get fret markers installed on the fingerboard of the Azola like the NXT. Would probably choose it if so...steep learning curve otherwise.

A qualified DB shop could install side dots or fingerboard dots. Upton Bass in Mystic CT put side dots (at typical reference locations) on a Ned Steinberger EUB that I used to own.