Buying a double bass...

[Brian Gencarelli]

Ken,

I think we are saying the basic same thing. No argument here. To me, a Juzek bass (in generalities) is not worth 10K. I got a lot more bass than that for 10K. I was also patient and waited for a long time...

Having said that, I have seen and played some REALLY nice Juzek basses in my day as well. Some I would have considered paying 6-8K for if I was in the market, based on their sound. However, I know the difference between the higher end and the plywood. Most noobs do not.

Most of my students end up with a Shen or Christopher, as I feel that these basses (here go the generalities again) are better quality than anything else out there for the money. (In the student lines)

My biggest point is that there are no absolutes with basses. There are some awesome Juzeks and some awesome Shens, but as with anything there are some DAWGS as well. Consider each bass on its own merit. Play as many as you can. Play them for someone else, and have someone else play them for you. Then you can make a good, informed decision.

Bass shopping is fun, scary, exciting, and can be sad ($$$) all at the same time!

Don't rush!
Brian

[Michael Case]

Originally posted by Ken Smith: The best way to judge the quality of a Bass in my opinion is with a Bow playing orchestral works.

Clearly you haven't heard me play with a bow!

Seriously though, what is your opinion on Wilfer basses sold as Wilfers? I'm asking because there is one in NYC that I'm very interested in.

[Ken Smith]

Originally Posted by Michael Case

Clearly you haven't heard me play with a bow!

Seriously though, what is your opinion on Wilfer basses sold as Wilfers? I'm asking because there is one in NYC that I'm very interested in.

Which Wilfer is this and about when was it made? I suggest you try a LaScalla Carved as well from AES. Same level of German workmanship but Arnold's design, set-up and neck set. There are at least 4 or 5 Wilfers over the last 70 years or so that I know of and the work varies by the makers, period, model and materials used and then some. To me, asking about 'A' Wilfer tells me very little because it can be almost anything in terms of good to bad in general terms.

[Michael Case]

It's a Wilfer #10, about 20 years old. It's a bass being sold at Ideal music in NYC. The name carved in the back is Emanuel Wilfer. They want $4700. for the bass. Actually the NS LaScala really interests me. I'd like to be able to play one though. Does Arnold usually have one around for people to try?

[Ken Smith]

Originally Posted by Michael Case

It's a Wilfer #10, about 20 years old. It's a bass being sold at Ideal music in NYC. The name carved in the back is Emanuel Wilfer. They want $4700. for the bass. Actually the NS LaScala really interests me. I'd like to be able to play one though. Does Arnold usually have one around for people to try?

You will have to call Arnold and ask him. On the Wilfer, it is no better in quality from what I have seen. Now you will just have to compare them each as Basses and pick the one you like. the NS will have a professional set-up. The Wilfer will probably need to go to a shop like Arnolds to be set-up if you want the same level of playability.

[Michael Case]

Yeah, I figured the Wilfer would need set-up work. I figured that at the price they want I could get a good set-up and still be in the area of the retail price I've seen them go for. But I do have to say I think the NS is probably a better bass all around. I'm gonna contact Arnold and see if I can arrange a visit and play a NS. Once again Ken, thank you for creating an environment where one can ask a question about a bass and not be bombarded by small time bass shop owners trying to sell you a lesser instrument.

[Ken Smith]

Originally Posted by Michael Case

Yeah, I figured the Wilfer would need set-up work. I figured that at the price they want I could get a good set-up and still be in the area of the retail price I've seen them go for. But I do have to say I think the NS is probably a better bass all around. I'm gonna contact Arnold and see if I can arrange a visit and play a NS. Once again Ken, thank you for creating an environment where one can ask a question about a bass and not be bombarded by small time bass shop owners trying to sell you a lesser instrument.

Also, the Wilfer has a repaired Crack. If this is near the Bass Bar or Sound Post, it will hurt the value and if not repaired well, will need to be re-done and this is not a cheap repair. For $1500 more, you can buy a new Wilfer #10 from MetMusic/Juzek as listed on their website. The #10, is a 'plain jane' carved Bass with nothing fancy in terms of wood.