first time DB buying HELP!!

[Smokehouseribs]

buying double bass lost!

hello, i am going to look at my first upright bass on monday. it is used and i do not know what to look for to make sure it is in good reliable playing condition. Any tips on what i should look for, listwen for etc.???

 

[KUNGfuSHERIFF]

Consult with a luthier in your area before you finalize the sale. What can you tell us about the bass? Do you have any photos you can post?

 

[Lynn Seaton]

Hi,
Buying an upright bass is much different than buying an electric bass from a local music store. Most of the better instruments are handmade and can be a bit pricey. There are some fine plywood basses too. It would be good to have an established bassist and/or a luthier take a look at the instrument you are considering.
World-renowned luthier David Gage has some great advice on his website about buying an instrument. I highly recommend that you read this article:
http://www.davidgage.com/instrument_guide.php

 

[MostlyBass]

Here's a link to download the chapter from my book on buying a bass.

 

[Lynn Seaton]

Thanks MostlyBass, that is some great information!

 

[MostlyBass]

Happy to help!

 

[the_stone]

Also look in the "Basses" forum here on the Double-bass side; there have been a large number of threads on what to look for when buying a new bass. I would also recommend finding a luthier, or even an experience player in your area, who could examine the bass for you and give you their thoughts.

 

[Lynn Seaton]

Another excellent suggestion!