Double Bass Help the noob.

[blakelock]

Yes. I’m a noob (EB to upright convert) but loving the instrument.

So…what is this plastic piece for? I see it fits over the bridge. Is it for travel protection or something?

 

[Ross Kratter]

That’s a practice mute, intended to lessen volume when practicing.

 

[mark286]

It is a practice mute.

https://www.talkbass.com/threads/rubber-mute-practice-hurts-or-helps-arco.1591080/post-27118577

EDIT: Ross beat me to it.

 

[blakelock]

thx!

 

[LouisF]

You can actually practice without it!

 

[jj.833]

Actually, you want to practice without it, because the mute dampens natural resonations of the instrument. Contrary to bass guitar, you want the double bass strings to resonate freely, especially when playing with the bow.
The mute is a good tool for evening practising though.