• 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 Stand Vs. Endpin

boombloom

boombloom

Aug 17, 2004
1,647
1,747
62
Wadhams! NY (Adirondacks)
#1
I'm about to purchase an NS CR4 that comes with a stand. I've never played one. I am wondering what it will be like to play an instrument on a stand. I waltz and rock with my upright and can't imagine standing still. I fear I'll lose my groove. So I'm curious what sort of experience folks have had with the switch to something that stands on its own. Also wondering about the NS endpin setup. I see it's got an appendage (for lack of a better term) that makes contact with the player's torso. What's that like?

Thanks.

Boom
 
#2
I just played my Wav 4 publicly for the first time at church this morning. While I don't move around a great deal with my bass, I wondered what it would be like playing an instrument on a stand.

I liked it. Of course, during our church service there are times when the pastors are making announcement between songs. It was nice to just stand there behind the bass. Eventually, I may order the endpin, but the stand worked just fine this morning. Admittedly, it is different, but not bad..just different.
 
#3
I started playing NS basses on a CR5M with the tripod stand and later switched to an NS Bass Cello with the shoulder strap. The tripod is very convenient but a bit awkward if you tend to move your body (even in place) while playing. The strap on the Bass Cello is very clever but requires a totally different player-to-instrument orientation (cramped arm position). I've now fitted the NS end pin to the Bass Cello (same end pin as the NS DB one) and find this the most comfortable solution. The folding body brace, which may appear odd at first, is very desirable to assist you to hold the instrument safely and comfortably.
 
#4
I started out with the tripod. After getting the endpin, and dedicating enough time to get accustomed to it, it is much better for me. On the tripod my left hand feels unnatural, as the bass does not move with my body. Its not like I go dancing with it, but it seems much more natural for the instrument to move with me. It may not be by much, but the instrument changes in angle as I move up in position, and the tripod won't allow that.

The belly-bout on the tripod works well for me. I can let go of the bass and still hold it upright, a bit easier than holding a double bass. I will eventually make a left side upper bout to try as a reference point, and as a way to force myself to work on thumb position.

I've also got the tripod adapter kit, and it is very convenient at home to be able to use the endpin and then just set it back on the tripod.

I wonder why there are not more endpin stands for sale on the board. Could it be that everyone who buys one ends up preferring it? But if you got it and ended up not wanting it, surely there would be someone interested in buying it.
 
#5
I just use a strap for the CR4 now and usually have the fingerboard twisted at a 45 degree angle towards me. Much better than the tripod - I agree it's very unnatural.

Just a curious questions about the endpin: I tried an Eminence bass and when comparing to the a real DB, I didn't like how the Eminence would twist from the torque of playing with a heavy pizz pull. A DB has enough mass and body to keep the bass relatively immobile, but does the endpin suffer from this?
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back