Hi guys!
I'm in the market for a decent plywood upright. Right now, I'm looking at the
Thompson, or the [Invalid or Expired Link Removed].
Have any of you played these basses? I think the Thompson sounds simply incredible, but I see that a lot of stores are selling the Cecilio for as little as $700. If you have any other recommendations for a beginning upright player, please let me know!
I've have not played a Thompson, nor a Cecilio.
Looking at the Cecilio link you provided, it seems than in their own words they are providing instruments for school aged kids at a budget parents won't choke on. It looks like the double basses are their weakest line. These are probably decent instruments for 10-16 year olds. If you're 18, you might want to just get a better instrument right away, something you won't outgrow so fast.
It's important to find an instrument that matches the player's desires for that instrument. Helpful questions to ask:
-What kind of music will I be playing on it?
-Will I be playing mostly pizz or arco? (related to above)
-Will I be using electronic amplifications and how much? (never, sometimes, always) also related to first question.
-How seriously will I practice and apply myself on this new instrument?
-Will this new instrument become my new primary instrument or will it be my secondary, 3rd, 4th or 5th instrument?
Going over what you want the instrument for, why you want it, and what you need it to do, will help you figure out what quality level of instrument will best suit your needs at this time. Re-evaluate each year, as the answers change.
Good luck, and try out as many instruments you can in person. Lay your hands on them!
