Looking for sugestions on a backup bass

[Tim Bishop]

Originally Posted by Bill Doss

Hey guys - This is a hard one:

I am looking for a back up bass to my CR5 bolt on. I want something that is of less value, both fiancial and emotional, to take to those "not so good neighborhood" gigs that we all must do from time to time.

My biggest issues is that I become really familiar with my instruments feel and changing basses is very dificult for me.

I am looking for your collective input as to what basses have a similar feel to a KS. I know its going to be hard - but I am looking for the 34 scale, 18mm spacing at the bridge, 9mm at the nut, and a similar fretboard radius.

I have tried a few brands with poor results.

Let me knwo your thoughts!

Bill

Bill,

I had this exact same issue and another maker was not an option. That's why I play Smith basses.

So, I decided to find another Smith that satisfied my need to match feel and sound, but at a price I was willing to pay for a back-up Smith (only without the financial and emotional attachment......good luck on this one though. Even then, it is still difficult to not be attached). Anytime you find that "special" instrument (cosmetically mint or otherwise), you WILL be attached. However, if I had to choose between taking my MINT 25th. Ann. Smith Fusion-5 to a "not-so-desirable-gig" vs. my back-up Smith: I'm taking the back-up Smith.

In my search for a back-up, I wasn't looking for an abused Smith (although, depending on severity of abuse, that could work as well), but one that maybe had some above normal wear (but not to the point playability and sound was a factor) and the price was reflected accordingly.

My recommendation: Given you play a CR5 and are use to the bolt-on feel, you could probably locate a Burner-5 for under $1k that you would be happy with. These are really nice basses for the $'s. However, depending on how much you want to spend, you may very well be able to find another comparable used Smith that will meet your need as your back-up and in a price-range you could live with.