The Decline of Manufacturing in USA

[Thomas Erickson]

In my own business we are down 75% from where we were pre-91

Ken, do you attribute this entirely to the state of the economy (and our state of mind - prioritizing other purchases, investments, etc.)? Or are there other factors within the industry that are also significant?

I've always thought of Smith as sort of the "industry standard" of professional bass guitars, and would have assumed that with "boutique" instruments and all that getting big in recent years that such a solid name and reputation would be right at the top of the industry; I guess there are a lot more people buying flashy "happy meal" instruments than the real deal...

So, what are you waiting for? Call me, Buy a Bass already. It's proven to be a better investment over time than the stock market in the last 30 years. I say, enjoy your money before the Banks or someone else does!

Indeed. Who's loaning big money on old double basses these days, anyway... Forget buying a house...