I just got this bass from KC Strings. The only label is a Hammond Ashley label marked SB138 with a date of 199?. I assume this is when it was opened up?
http://s114.photobucket.com/albums/n...atback%20bass/
Dimensions:
Upper: 20"
Center: 14.5"
Lower: 25"
Rib depth: 7.25" at break, 7.5" at lower
Back to top of heel: 44.25"
Mensure: 41.75"
D neck, although who knows what it was before?
I believe KC Strings did the scroll graft and I know they refinished it. I couldn't get as to whether or not they opened it up, although the soundpost patch and cleats appear to be new wood.
It is very open, clear and even. Not particularly loud, but great jazz tone. It sounds much better than any other flatback I've played. It also weight only 21lbs with bow and quiver.
As with many of these shop basses, it was sold to me as German, but I wonder. Most of the German basses have outer linings, causing me to come to the expert. What does Dr. Smith think? Where and when was this made?