I read posts regarding a certain bass being set up for solo use or certain models being good for solo playing. So what makes a certain type of bass ideal for solo playing and what type of set up is normally used/
Enjoy the benefits of a premium membership!
Upgrade Account
-
TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
Join free Log in
Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.
Double Bass Solo bass setups?
- Thread starter Ron Plichta
- Start date
- Aug 1, 2005
- 3,546
- 1,421
- Disclosures
- Private Inventor - Bass Capos
A good solo bass has well sloped shoulders, good overstand, short string length, ribs which are not too deep, especially up at the neck joint, and the box being generally smaller than with a typical orchestra bass. All are qualities which make it easy to get to the high notes, make quick shifts, and project the solo range especially well. As far as setup, the soundpost is maybe positioned to give optimal upper register response, with deep bottom being less important.
Thanks. Guess that's a project that won't be in my immediate future since sounds like it's different from my Czech bass.
Even if your bass isn't shaped to be a dedicated solo bass, you can change a few things to help out. You can use a narrow string spacing at the bridge to make playing across easier in the upper register. You can usually get away with a slightly lower string height as well.
