I'm thinking of playing a double bass. I was wondering if anyone can give me any advice. For example,, what size double basses best fits my height or the budget i should be looking at,,because i just wanted to buy an advanced double bass, - because i generally dont like beginner instruments.

The standard size everyone uses is 3/4.

As for cost, you're approaching it the wrong way round in my humble opinion - you need to have some idea of a budget first. If you want something well above beginner level then you're into four figures.

Liz

Definitely need to consider your budget before setting your heart on any particular instrument.

I play a regular 3/4 size bass and if you're concerned about your height, double basses have a spike like a 'cello that allows you to adjust to your own measurements. I also think that considering you have no prior experience in the instrument, perhaps it would not be a bad thing to start off with a beginner instrument, so you can get a feel for it and see whether you really want to pursue it to a higher level. It removes the risk of buying an advanced double bass and realising you don't like it as much as you think you did (and losing out on money too).

Those are my thoughts....

Not so sure that a 'regular' 3/4 size instrument exists. Since basses have never really been standardised in the same way violins have, a 3/4 size bass can have a back length ranging from anything around 107 cm up to 111 cm - which is nearly two inches different. Size of the bouts and string length are a consideration too. String lengths can vary from 103.5 cm right up to 108 cm, which again is a big difference.

When I said "regular" I was referring to it as being the standard size, as in elidatrading's "The standard size everyone uses is 3/4".

Right ok, I see what you mean now.

I thought a 3/4 was a jazz bass and a 4/4 was an orchestral one. Well, shows what I know, doesn't it? Doesn't anyone use a 4/4, then? Do they still exist??

Mysteryd, I would suggest that you rent a bass for at least a quarter until you're sure that you'll take to it, esp if you don't play other stringed instruments. Having a 4 figure instrument around, and a bloomin' big one at that, that you don't play is a nuisance you will not welcome!!!!

I've never come across any player who plays a 4/4 bass. Have heard of the odd one playing a 7/8. Yes you can get 4/4 basses - but probably not very readily. I've never even seen one.

We certainly wouldn't ever contemplate obtaining a 4/4 unless it had been paid for in advance and I would guess the great majority of shops would feel the same way. In fact, our main supplier would want to be paid in advance before even making a 4/4 bass.

Liz

I'm sure Kenm's not that odd when you get to know him

I've tried to become more even in old age.