I have been looking at a step up bass from the Wan bass I have been using for the past few years. Is the target of one bass to do Rabbath style solo studies, orchestral and jazz (Think old style sound) beyond what is reasonably possible or would I be better looking for perhaps a jazz / orchestral similar to the recently sold Franco German bass and sticking with the Wan for Rabbath stuff (it is currently set up for this with the endpin etc) until I can raise the funds for a Laborie or similar.
Advantage to the two bass solution, would be the Wan is a very good bass and is already drilled for the endpin, and when fitted with Corelli Fortes puts out a decent volume. Jazz / orchestral model could then be selected for a less upper mid , more low end tone.
Advantage to one bass solution. Retire before 75. One less bass to transport / maintain / carry upstairs every time I leave town in Hurricane season
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The question is can anyone reccomend a do it all bass that could be used for all the above purposes. I have been mulling this question for a while and the best thing I have seen online was probably Ken's now departed Loveri. I am open to new or used but would need to stick resolutely to <$30K for a good to go issue free bass (or <30K total for bass plus work). I guess the Loveri was considerably more than that and was of an age and value that I would not have drilled it for the endpin.
I am looking to visit some shops in October when I get back. (KSB, Gage, Kolstein, AES routing looking favorite), and realize that there is no substitute for playing a given bass, but having read Phil Maneri's threads to their succesful conclusion, I believe the maxim "plan the work and work the plan" holds true for musical instruments selection and purchase. I am still in the planning stage trying to select a reasonable target.