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Rob Allen - MB-2 or Mouse?

Which Rob Allen for Jazz?

  • Rob Allen MB-2

    Votes: 19 61.3%

  • Rob Allen Mouse

    Votes: 12 38.7%
  • Total voters
    31
  • Poll closed .
fish slapper

fish slapper

Nov 17, 2005
1,375
22
Newberg, OR
www.fish-slapper.com
#1
Okay.

I'm getting very close to ordering a Rob Allen. Going for either a MB-2 or Mouse (Deep 4 is just too far outside the budget).

I'm a Jazz player that's had it with DB (no need to start a debate on that). So looking for something with "upright tone" but would like a little more definition.

So, I'm convinced that the Mouse delivers upright tone. My hesitation is will my "muscle memory" for hand position be all whack with the 30" scale? And here's a goofy one; I'm 6'1" 250 lbs. Am I going to look silly on the bandstand? Will it make my butt look big? ;o}

Anybody with experience with both appreciate how they mix with the band. Also, anyone in the Portland, OR area that would let me tickle theirs for a bit, please, PM.
 
#2
Why pick?:D

The Mouse is the most DB of the bunch.

The 35" MB2 kicks monster lowend.

The Deep sustains forever.



DSC_0029.jpg
 
#3
I don't know - I've heard lots about how the Mouse has a more authentic DB sound than the MB2 and I just don't agree. When I tried the two out the MB2 seemed to me to have the more authentic DB sound. Don't want to crap on the Mouse, because it too is a wonderful instrument, but the MB2 nailed he upright thing IMO.
 
#4
I agree that you will look odd with a mouse. Or rather you will look like a guitarist. If that doesn't put you off nothing will!

I'm gassing for an MB-2 myself. Defo the purtyist of the bunch IMHO. But as Richnota demonstrates you won't be disappointed either way.

Davo
 
#5
If you're worried about the size of the Mouse 30, grab a Fender Telecaster since they're almost exactly the same overall size. I'm kinda the opposite since the Mouse 30 is the only bass that doesn't dwarf my 5'6" 130lb frame!

Really you can't go wrong with either of them. They have similar overall tones, but It all depends on what tonewoods you use. The Mouse 30 is very easy to have a DB-ish tone while a 35" scale MB2 5 string takes a tad bit more effort since Rob needs to brighten the 5 string variants to get low B clarity. A 4 string MB2 doesn't have as many constraints and opens ya up to different wood choices.
 
#7
Feedback is a zero issue with the Allens.

On the MB-2, Rob uses ebony for the board and bridge for the 5 string/35" scale because he feels it helps the B string definition. The Mouse and 4 string MB-2's use the same, softer board and bridge material.

I too believe both the Mouse and MB-2 4 string can be made to sound almost identical. If you are really a large person, I would suggest the MB-2 4 string... it will look and feel better IMO, and you will be able to get quite a reasonable DB-like tone from it with the right rig and EQ setting. IMO and IME.
 
#8
Jazzdogg said:
1. Does the selection of a Rob Allen change when selecting a five-string versus a four-string?

2. Has anyone experienced feedback problems when playing a Rob Allen at a high-volume gig?

Thanks!
Click to expand...

Essentially, Rob needs to utilize brighter woods to get articulation from a tapewound low B. Stuff like mahogangy may sound great for the rest of the strings, but articulation on the low B probably won't be there. There's still plenty of low end and you can hear my MB2 on Surface To Air's Ragu, along with the Mouse 30 on Prelude in G and Placebo Switch.

I've never experienced a feedback problem. I tend to stand close to my amp sometimes to get a little extra sustain, but a piezo system can be easily blocked by muting with your hand.
 
#9
I wouldn't be too concerned about looks when it comes to the Mouse. It sounds incredible and that's what counts. I'm 6'3" / 210lbs and I have never hesitated strapping this on. I just love the amazement in people's eyes when they realize how huge the sound is coming from this small instrument. It's incredibly fun to play and muscle memory is not an issue.

Since I've never played an MB-1/-2, and I own a Mouse (my 2nd one), that's what I voted for.

Good luck in choosing... tough decision.
 
#10
I like the MB-2, but for me, the Mouse not only captures the tone of an upright a tad bit better, but also the feel. It seems odd, being that it is further away in scale length from an actual upright, but I found my brain thinking in more 'upright terms' when playing the Mouse, whereas the MB-2 felt like a killer, mellow, acoustic bass guitar.

That is just my take, though, and YMMV.

Tom.
 

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