2007 Solano

[Brandon Mason]

This is my brand new Panormo model, made by Rumano Solano. The fantastic wood has been aged from 50-80 years and, if I remember correctly, he acquired it through the death of another luthier. Along with the great looks, the sound is also very impressive. The low end is very responsive, boomy, and has a clear attack; the high end, despite the size of the instrument, projects very well, making this a more than convincing solo instrument.

Of course, being a Panormo design, the upper bout is fairly large. Fortunately, Rumano made the overstand at the block 2" high, freeing up the left arm quite a bit. In fact, my forearm doesn't hit the edge of the shoulder until I get to the second octave harmonic G. This, in combination with the very manageable string length, makes the bass unusually comfortable all around.

Measurements:

• Upper Bout: 20.5"
• Lower Bout: 26.5"
• C-Bout: 15"
• Rib Depth: 7.5-8"
• String Length: 40.25"

More pictures:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/6251469...7594477700133/

Rumano is doing extremely fine work these days and at a generous price for the quality. He is becoming increasingly popular and, at the same time, his basses seem to be getting better and better. "Carpe Solano" now. Beat the rush.

[Drake Chan]

A truly gorgeous bass that you've got there. Congratulations.

From what I've heard from some people, some of Solano's basses have had construction issues. Of course, that is the only downside that I've heard so far about his basses.

[JoeyNaeger]

I have some friends with some of Solano's cheaper instruments and some do have issues. He tries really hard to make affordable, student level instruments, but you definitely get what you pay for.

Brandon, you've got yourself a really nice bass right there. The back is absolutely gorgeous. It'd be fun to compare our basses sometime

[Calvin Marks]

Brandon, why did you opt for the short string length? Do you feel it has affected your instruments sound at all?

[Ken Smith]

Beautiful Bass. My Gilkes is a cannon with only a 40 3/4" SL and my Candi is just 39 1/2" SL and very loud and deep as well compared to its size. Must be a combination or good wood, good design and good Luthery.

On your Bass, what is the body length from the tip of the Top touching the side of the neck to the end of the Top by the saddle overhanging the rib at the block?