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Double Bass Solano Basses, thoughts?

I would be prepared to be able to explain to him in detail what you are looking for in a set-up. If you can describe measurements you like, your playing style, that will go a long way. Setups are very personal and a luthier can't read your mind. Try and educate yourself as much as possible on the subject. If you have access to a bass whose setup you like, maybe bring it to him to inspect. There's much info here and at smithbassforums.com on what makes a good setup.
 
I've had one of his basses ('96, gamba) for about a year now and it's been great; have yet to hear a better bass for the money, or a negative word about it. Great sound, speaks well, easy to play, etc, etc. I know a lot of people say some of his basses have construction issues, but mine has never needed any major repairs, and I have yet to meet someone with one that actually did. Some I've seen have been more impressive than others, but from what I've seen they're all at least decent for the money.

I think with any new bass you'd be carefully watching integrity, etc as everything sets in, so I don't think the stories of his basses sometimes having issues really has to change anything you do.
 
I've owned a Solano Quenoil copy Bass since May 2000 and never had any issues with it. No problems with seams or structural issues. It's a fantastic instrument. Loved it so much that I had Rumano make a cello for me in 2005 and it too has been a wonderful instrument. It was a pleasure to work with Rumano on the set up of both of these instruments.
 
Picture of Quenoil Bass - Rumano Solano
Cello to follow in next post
 

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