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Post by Keith Ambridge on Jul 17, 2013 9:00:17 GMT
Hi all,,
I've just been chewing over the idea of building a biscuit bridge bass using the same patterns that I have for my "blue triolian".
I wanted to ask if anyone has had experience of reso basses and whether they are any good or, indeed a waste of time. Cones strong enough or not etc etc.
I have already thought of one problem though, the inherent intonnation problems that we all cope with playing slide. These are not going to be good for a bass, unless it's fretless I guess? (I'm thinking on the hoof here)!!
does anyone play slide bass?
The questions are starting to flow but I realy am interested in other peoples views, pro's and con's.
Thanks.
Keith.
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Post by Michael Messer on Jul 17, 2013 9:58:13 GMT
Hi Keith,
In the late 90s / early 00s, there were a few companies building resonator guitar acoustic basses. Both National biscuit bridge and Dobro spider bridge instruments were built and found there way into music stores all over the world. They did get bought and tried in bands and on recording sessions, but sadly they don't work properly and 90% of those instruments are now gathering dust. The problem is that the low frequencies and heavy strings just don't work with a resonator. Basically, there is not enough of any sound coming from these instruments. They only work well if you fit a pickup and plug them in, and even then they have a weird tone. My advice would be not to waste your time!
There are lots of wonderful acoustic bass guitars around that do actually have a bass sound and work properly. I would get one of them, or make one. Cort acoustic basses are good value. Also check out the Kala U-Bass, it is an amazing instrument. I have been around a few and they are stunning machines.
Slide bass ....my bass guitarist, Jerry Soffe, often does a slide bass solo when we do Second Mind Band concerts.
I hope that is helpful.
Shine On
Michael
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Post by Keith Ambridge on Jul 17, 2013 10:44:48 GMT
Thanks Michael,
I appreciate your advice, decision made. I now have to decide very soon whether to ebay my lovely '65 Hofner or keep it. I think it might be the latter!
Reason for a bass? I seem to have a bit more time on my hands at the moment and I'm getting into messing around with a very simple home studio.
I think the Hof' will make a very nice studio bass!
Keith.
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Post by garrysmith on Jul 17, 2013 10:58:03 GMT
Unless of course you have the skills and gear to spin out a cone the size of a small dustbin lid. Or, maybe taking a cue from the Ampeg 8 x 10 bass cab, a number of small cones. A "Quadracone" or a "Quintacone". Designing and casting the bridge support would be fun!
Taking Slide Guitar out of the "Blues Ghetto".
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Post by Keith Ambridge on Jul 17, 2013 12:20:44 GMT
Interesting Idea Gary! And then perhaps a second hand mechanics engine hoist from ebay to lift it into the playing position  I've just looked at the Kala u-base theat Michael recommends, they're sweet! |
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Post by alexandre on Jul 17, 2013 12:41:41 GMT
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Post by pete1951 on Jul 17, 2013 14:15:17 GMT
If anyone has one, I think the addition of 2 strings and `normal` strings would make a cheep reso baritone.
PT
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Post by Keith Ambridge on Jul 18, 2013 8:22:22 GMT
I've looked at some of the Kala u-Bass reviews on Youtube, what an impressive sound!
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Post by Michael Messer on Jul 18, 2013 8:25:05 GMT
Hi Keith,
The U-Bass is an amazing instrument. I know a couple of bass players that use them and they sound incredible.
Shine On
Michael
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Post by Brad Bechtel on Jul 18, 2013 14:43:53 GMT
Unlike resophonic bass guitars (which I've never enjoyed), the Kala U-bass is the real deal. I remember the first time I heard one at a ukulele festival in California. They sound great!
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