To Cut, or Not to Cut? (TB Save)

[Ken Smith]

Member Question; Sorry Ken, I'm not a luthier, and only very new to DB. But I've been repairing old and new watches for 30 years. One thing I have learned is, you can remove material much easier than you can put it back on.

That's fine and thanks for your point of view. I am very aware of that but I have seen more old Basses cut and modified to be used in Orchestras than I have seen Basses in their original form. It's a fact of life with this big Basses and I think they have been cutting them since at least the 19th century if not before. Several of the Basses I have owned were cut when I got them so I am no stranger to a modified Bass for easier playability.

The main question here is should I go slightly over 42" or even to 43" and let well enough alone? This way I could slightly modify and adjust the length and still hear the full air volume and tone of the Bass. I bought it unplayable so I have no idea what this Bass can do. It's all been speculation up to now.

Thank's for your reply.