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Double Bass What is a good starter bass...

L

Lecker

Dec 28, 2010
9
0
Montreal Quebec 4989 Connaught
#1
I have been playing funk electric bass for about half a year and I'm interested in trying jazz, because im already experienced in playing in an ensemble on trombone, on an upright.
so I'm just wondering what would be a good bass to start out on?

I've been reviewing other threads and i've seen the Shen SB-80 3/4 is probabbly a good bet, or is it?
lucky me I have a grandfather that is willing to spend approximatly a max of 1500$
I can find myself an appropriate teacher no problem but just the bass is a problem...
would she Shen be a smart decision?
or maybe the Hofner 3/4?
 
#2
Welcome to the dark side. I hope you'll read the newbie links here. Indeed, the Shens are fine entry-level basses (as are several others). You are wise to stay away from the $700 eBay specials. ;) Be sure that you buy a bass from a real bass shop/luthier and that you have it delivered with a good setup. The importance of a good setup simply cannot be overestimated. Enjoy!
 
#6
Lecker said:
well I live in montreal so the only retailers I can find are large companies...
like TWIGG and ItalMelodie
Click to expand...

Well, if you end up buying from a larger retailer, figure that you'll have to get the bass to a luthier to have the setup tweaked.
 
#8
I live in Montreal as well and I can tell you right now, stay away from the large retailers. They sell junk.

Go to Mario LaMarre, or Jules Saint Michel. I go to Jules for every day stuff and Mario for the expensive high end stuff. Jules can get you started pretty well, and I'd suggest renting to own as their starter basses are around $2,700.

There is very rarely anything good on the craigslist here, so I wouldn't recommend that. There are a ton of great bass players here, so hang around Diese Onze, Upstairs Jazz, or at Place Des Art during the ballet to talk to the bassists after. Talk to them about the store they go to (they will say Mario LaMarre, I guarantee it), and if they know of any students of theirs selling their starter basses.
 

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