Double Bass Stagg vs Palatino vs...?

[ichadwick]

I'm not an upright bass player, but I've played guitar 45+ years and ukulele 3 yrs, and played a little electric bass a few decades back. Now I want to learn upright.

I am trying too get some comparisons. Stagg and Palatino can be bought in Toronto, but anything else I have to order by mail.

My first choice is the Stagg (price is a factor), second Palatino. Third... ? Ergo? Suggestions? Like to keep in the $700-$800 range if possible.

I have only tried the Stagg - liked the sound (no hum) and thought the headphone/MP3-in jacks were nice. But is the Palatino equal or better?

Which would be best for learning (I also want to learn to bow), playing at home or small pub jams (not in a studio or serious performance). I've read through much of the the mega threads but can't find any one-on-one comments to help me decide.

 

[ichadwick]

Been looking with great interest at the Ergo, as well. And been reading the mega-thread on it, here.

Anyone able to comment on the Ergo vs a Stagg?

 

[LUCKY1]

BUMP for

STAGG vs PALANTINO vs ERGO

 

[abaguer]

If it were me I'd forego the Ergo and get either the stagg or Palatino. Since I play upright I always like my EUBs to be more traditional feeling (Messenger/Eminence) and I don't like them on a stand or tripod. I like them leaning into me like a real double bass. I've played Stagg at music store I teach in and it was ok in lower positions but hard to get around from 4th position to Thumb. Haven't played a Palatino but it looks more traditional. I know you have to do some upgrades to their pickup and stuff. There's sometimes some good deals on used instruments and I've found the divide between a $5-700 dollar stagg or palatino and a $12-1500 used eminence or BSX or other to be wide in terms of quality. Hope this helps.