new back?

[Ken Smith]

Originally Posted by Arnold Schnitzer

To amplify Ken's point above--the main problem is that flatbacked basses usually have crossbars running 90 degrees to the back wood. This is considered a no-no in woodworking, because wood expands/contracts mainly across its width, and cross-grained joints will blow themselves apart when the weather changes. (Or, if the joint does not fail, cracks and warpage will be the result.) Crossbars are the reason flat-backs fail.

Sounds like Job security to me Maestro..

I have seen a new maker doing this still and 'way' over bracing the Back as well. These are not very expensive basses. When they fail, the owners will be 'buying' the bass all over again..

I think a person should be very experienced in making basses before he starts building them. This way, 'mistakes of the future' might easily be avoided..