Double Bass Gig bag for bass with extension

Larry Ames

Larry Ames

Nov 16, 2005
40
7
4,631
Ukiah, California
#1
While I have read numerous threads here regarding opinions on bass bags, I haven't found my particular question addressed.

I have a 3/4 German with a Stenholm C-extension, which adds about an inch to its length. I have looked at the websites for every brand and make of cover that I can find. The problem is sizing. As far as I can tell, only Mooradian offers more than one size in the 3/4 range, and their large is too wide in the bouts and their medium is too short. Here are the dimensions of my instrument: Total length: 74.5"; Body: 43"; Upper bout: 19.5"; Lower bout: 25.5".

I am asking for recommendations from anyone on the forum who has an extended bass. What bag(s) do you use and how well do they fit your instrument?
 
#4
I've always found bag shopping to be mostly a trial and error process. While the dimensions that are publicized by the manufacturers or shops selling the bags are definitely helpful, you might have a bass that has a 20" upper bout, but the shoulders are really high and "square" or the widest part might be 20" but they are very "French" and sloped. Some ribs have a significant taper to them that means the bag doesn't fit at the bottom or it's really loose around the neck heel, which can be a problem if the bag doesn't have a cinch.

As far as extensions go, some basses fit in the bag they were in before the extension was added with no problems. Some extensions are barely longer than the scroll itself, where others (particularly low B extensions) can add a lot of length. A colleague of mine has a bag where the extension has actually rubbed a hole in the top of the bag because it's too long for the initial dimensions. He lets it hang out when the weather is find (which makes me worry about protecting the extension/scroll from door frames and such, but will occasionally add a toque if it's particularly cold or raining. I'm not advocating that route, but stranger things have happened.

If you're anywhere near a shop that has a variety of bags for sale, I would strongly recommend taking your bass in trying a bunch of them. You might find something that works, or you might figure out what your idea dimensions would be. Messina specializes in custom bags, I believe Mooradian has custom options on top of their various sizes, and you might find another that is particularly suited to an extension.

Happy hunting!
 
  • Like
Reactions: james condino
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top Bottom
Back