what CUSTOM BASS builder would you choose?.. budget=$1800

[acleex38]

Scott Beckwith at Birdsong Guitars only does 31.5" scale basses. I got mine 3 weeks ago. He doesn't do "custom" so much as tweak his existing designs in terms of materials/etc - he has 2 main body shapes with a new one (mine is the prototype) just ramping up and a 5-string in development. Also, they're "players" basses. I've been in touch with several other Birsong customers and everyone else's experience with Scott and the company is at least as good as mine if not better.

In addition, his flagship line starts at around 1500 and his higher end line at 1800. Wood and options will shift that around a lot.

 

[Groovin]

Mike Kinal. He is a great guy and can make you whatever you want. I may go through a lot of basses in my lifetime but my Kinal stays with me till the grave. Kinal.com

 

[kobass]

You may want to take a look at Ristola. www.ristolainstruments.com He used to build at Stambaugh. His stuff looks great and his prices are fairly reasonable. Good luck, and let us know who you choose.

Cheers,
Kevin

 

[Brian Reihms]

NY bass workscalled me back, he is close enough for me to visit,where I could actually see,feel and play his stuff..a big plus,but less options as far as shape,wood..it would be more traditional.a hot-rodded jazz. I really wanted something unique.
so may luthiers..!

+1 with NYBW. I'm a owner and a believer...the level of craftsmanship and playability is nothing short of amazing and what one would expect on the high end. If you can get there in person to give it a run, I would. I think you'll find this isn't just another traditional jazz bass on steroids and there are quite a few options. Good luck!

 

[Bass Viking]

Not meaning any disrespect at all, just offering my $.02, but saying "I want a custom bass and I have x amount of money, what should I get and who should I get to do it?" is a bit like the people who say "Man I really want to get a tattoo" and then walk into the studio and say "What can I get for x dollars?"

My advice would be to keep looking and keep saving until you find the design you really love, that just calls to you, made by the luthier you really trust and then get that. You're not playing the logo.

+1. When you're already putting out that amount of money, it's better to spend a little more if necessary to get what you really want.