Double Bass Solo Extension

[Illfavor]

In order to get this, do you have to replace the entire fingerboard, or is it possible just to add it on?

Any information is appreciated!

 

[Heifetzbass]

No, you don't have to replace the board. Many are adding grafts at the end of the board to extend it. I have seen quite a few lately...

 

[Illfavor]

Would I just ask my luthier if they could do it, or do I need to like buy the graft?

Thanks!

 

[Schoolhouse]

Most repairers can add a bit from an old finger board to the end of the current board. It needs to be reinforced with either pins, dowels, or a batten under the board. I've done all three. It takes a minimum of several hours to get it right.

 

[Illfavor]

Any idea of how much that costs? I expected like $200-300, but really have no idea.

 

[robobass]

Well, a good extension is carefully shaped and fitted over the scroll and pegbox, and usually anchored with a few carefully placed screws. A wheel has to be placed at the end so the string can be bent around to return to the tuner through a precisely drilled hole in the scroll. Also, the playing surface has to be carved to conform to the relief and camber of the fingerboard. Add in finishing and varnishing, then you've also got to deal with making a capo at the nut (so you can close it on E) that works decently. If you live somewhere where you have skilled bass luthiers who bill shop time at 10 bucks an hour, you might get one made at that price, but I know of no such place.
Robobass

 

[Basschair]

I could be way off here, but I think he's talking about extending the fingerboard on the bridge end of it to allow for high solo notes, and not the C extension that you're referring too...or, it could be that I need to go back to school for some reading comprehension classes

Well, a good extension is carefully shaped and fitted over the scroll and pegbox, and usually anchored with a few carefully placed screws. A wheel has to be placed at the end so the string can be bent around to return to the tuner through a precisely drilled hole in the scroll. Also, the playing surface has to be carved to conform to the relief and camber of the fingerboard. Add in finishing and varnishing, then you've also got to deal with making a capo at the nut (so you can close it on E) that works decently. If you live somewhere where you have skilled bass luthiers who bill shop time at 10 bucks an hour, you might get one made at that price, but I know of no such place.
Robobass

 

[robobass]

Yeah, I guess I shot first and asked questions later. I was kinda wondering why the word "solo" was used. That is probably what he means. Should be possible to graft on a fingerboard extension (to extend high range) for that money.
Robobass