'Calling' the venerable ARNOLD SCHNITZER...?

[Adrian Levi]

Originally Posted by Arnold Schnitzer

YO, ADRIAN!!!!!!! (sorry, could not resist)

The bass Eddie mentioned began its current life as two broken Kays and a Czech neck, if I recall correctly. It was fitted with hatpeg tuners and re-varnished a dark eggplant-like color. I used it personally for a few years, then Eddie discovered it at my old shop about 16-17 years ago. He loved the dark tone and fast response. I have congenitally weak wrists, so I had set it up silky low with little tension. It fit Eddie's sound and playing style well, so we made a deal.

I'd just like to point out that although Mr. Gomez is known as a jazz great, his arco playing of the solo literature is absolutely stunning.

Now that's all interesting stuff! I must say that its rather intriguing that given the options that Mr Gomez must have had, he basically chose a ply bass , although I must say that I have heard some pretty impressive ones before ! Also I wasn't really aware of his arco capabilities ... Thanks for all the info.

[Arnold Schnitzer]

Eddie really liked the simplicity of the tone, which makes the bass easy to amplify and record. He also liked the playability and the fact that he does not have to worry about getting a precious antique destroyed out in the real (bass-destructive) world.

[Adrian Levi]

Originally Posted by Arnold Schnitzer

Eddie really liked the simplicity of the tone, which makes the bass easy to amplify and record. He also liked the playability and the fact that he does not have to worry about getting a precious antique destroyed out in the real (bass-destructive) world.

That makes sense ! What was your particular take on the instrument seeing that you used the bass yourself , was it markedly better sounding than your average Kay in your opinion...?

[Arnold Schnitzer]

Yes, it's faster and has a more sustaining quality, yet retains the characteristic Kay darkness.

[kurt ratering]

Originally Posted by Arnold Schnitzer

Yes, it's faster and has a more sustaining quality, yet retains the characteristic Kay darkness.

how much would you attribute the quickness and sustain to a solid neck set an appropriate overstand?

[Matthew Tucker]

I reckon about 100% Kurt

[kurt ratering]

thats what i thought! i have reset a few kay necks and have always been happy with the tonal improvements.