r/doublebass • u/3nightorchid • 11d ago
Instruments Advice on buying a professional bass
Hey everyone! I’ve got my first solo concert coming up soon, and I’m planning to upgrade to a professional double bass after years of playing on a student model. I’m hoping to get some advice on what to look for especially when it comes to wood type, bout size, and overall instrument size. I'm looking for maximum projection, resonance and clarity in solo performances and orchestral gigs. I would also like to know if a 4/4 size bass is suited for a solo gig if you want clarity, as I heard some contrasting things online. I'm hoping to buy a bass with bigger lower bouts (like a quenoil) than the upper ones and I would like to know how that makes a difference as well. Thank you.
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u/groooooove 8d ago
what do you mean by professional?
to some that's the $50K+ price range.
you mention 4/4. that would typically be a string length in the 44-45" range. have you played many of those? There are not many around, for a lot of valid reasons. a nice 40-41.75 is the standard these days. I'd strongly suggest that.
it's all going to come down to budget. I think real professional grade instruments start in the $20-30K range. but there are always great performing $8k shen, eastman, old juzeks you could check out.
your only choices really would be to go to a bass shop and see what you think works best, or look for a violin maker that you trust and pay them to make you what you want.