12 best upright basses
Upright basses, also known as double basses or simply basses, are large, bowed string instruments commonly used in classical, jazz, bluegrass, and various other music genres. They are a vital component of the rhythm section in many musical ensembles.Here are some key points about upright basses:
Size and Appearance: Upright basses are among the largest and most physically imposing of all musical instruments. They consist of a long, tall, hollow wooden body with a flat back and a curved front. The strings are typically made of gut, steel, or synthetic materials.
Sound Production: Sound is produced on an upright bass by plucking or bowing the strings. The instrument's large resonating body amplifies the vibrations created by the strings, producing a rich and deep sound.
String Configuration: Upright basses traditionally have four strings tuned to E1, A1, D2, and G2, which are one octave lower than the lowest four strings of a guitar. Some modern variations and electric upright basses may have five or more strings.
Bowing Techniques: Bassists can use a bow to play sustained notes, creating a legato or smooth sound. Pizzicato, or plucking the strings with the fingers, is also common and produces a more percussive sound.
Genres: Upright basses are used in a wide range of musical genres. In classical music, they are a fundamental part of the orchestra. In jazz, they often provide the foundational bass lines. They are also featured in bluegrass, folk, and even some rock and pop music.
Transportation: Due to their size, upright basses can be challenging to transport. Many bassists use specialized cases or gig bags with wheels for easier mobility.
Accessories: Accessories for upright basses include stands and hangers for storage, rosin for the bow, and pickups for amplification in live performances. Some players also use extensions to lower the pitch of the instrument.
Maintenance: Proper maintenance of an upright bass is crucial to ensure its longevity and sound quality. This includes regular tuning, occasional string replacement, and addressing any issues with the instrument's structural integrity.
Variations: While the traditional upright bass is acoustic, there are also electric upright basses that utilize pickups to amplify the sound for live performances. Electric upright basses are typically smaller and more portable.
Notation: Upright bass music is typically notated in bass clef, and bassists read sheet music to perform their parts.
Skill and Technique: Playing the upright bass requires a high level of skill and technique, particularly for classical and jazz styles. Bassists must develop finger strength, bowing technique, and a keen sense of pitch and rhythm.
Upright basses have a distinctive and versatile sound that adds depth and character to a wide range of musical compositions. They are an essential part of many musical ensembles and continue to be a valued instrument in various music traditions.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best upright basses on the market
M. Ravel, 4-String Acoustic Upright Bass (BA1001/4)
M. Ravel
Product description
1/4 size bass outfit laminated body with a slight flame included is a Brazilwood bow and a heavily padded bag.
- Package Dimensions: 65 L x 16 H x 24 W (inches)
- Package Weight: 20 pounds
- Country of Origin : China
- 1/4 size bass outfit
CECILIO CEDB-1DW 3/4 Size ELECTRIC SILENT MAHOGANY METALIC UPRIGHT DOUBLE BASS
Cecilio
Product description
Package Includes: Padded nylon soft case with pockets for accessories Brazilwood bow with ebony frog and unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair Quality rosin cake, headphone, and AUX cable. We are sorry that Double Bass cannot be shipped to PO Boxes, APO/FPO address, PR, AK or HI.
- Beautiful Mahogany Metallic Finish
- Plated brass tuning machine head
- Oakwood fingerboard and Ebony tailpiece
- Adjustable back support and endpin
- Powered by a 9V Alkaline Battery (not included)
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the string scale length (from bridge to nut |
| Answer: | mine came with cord. end to wire to sled and from that to helmet. |
| Question: | Does it have any fret/ octave markers |
| Answer: | Please refer to link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZWMDE3G?ref=myi_title_dp |
| Question: | Does it come in any other colors |
| Answer: | Yes, we use it for snowmobiling and it is plenty warm enough. However we are snowmobiling in California and it isn't terribly cold. 20's to 30's |
| Question: | How is the sound of this item compared to a bass guitar |
| Answer: | No |
Cremona SB-3 Premier Upright Bass - 3/4 Size
Cremona
Product description
This SB-3 3/4 is America's best value in a Flamed Maple bass. With its beautiful violin-shaped body and quality fittings such as the ebony fingerboard... You will surely be noticed wherever you and your bass might go.
- Clarity and volume come with a handcarved, properly graduated, select spruce top and factory equipped D'Addario Prelude strings
- Handcarved select maple back, sides, and neck assure a focused sound and attack
- Upgraded Ebonite fingerboard, ebony nut, saddle, and tailpiece are strikingly beautiful and extremely long lasting
- Correct string height, string spacing and neck relief for accurate finger positions and intonation
- Durable black 600-denier padded nylon gig bag for easy storage and transport, bow not included
Product features
The Finest Materials And Workmanship
This is America's best value in a flamed maple bass. With its beautiful violin-shaped body and quality fittings, the SB-3 will surely be noticed wherever you and your bass might go. With features like a solid spruce top, a player contoured neck profile, and backed by the legendary Cremona name, this bass is more durable, playable and responsive than other basses on the market at twice the price. And, like all Cremona basses, no matter the level—each instrument passes through our legendary setup facility to make sure that is ready to play straight out of the box.
Key Features:
- Select spruce top and flamed curly maple back and sides.
- Violin body shape for traditional look.
- Ebony fingerboard.
- Shaded Amber, matte finish.
- Correct string height, string spacing and neck relief for accurate finger positions and intonation.
- Set-up to Cremona standards at our workshop in the US.
- Includes a durable, padded black 600-dernier nylon gigbag.
- Available in 3/4 size.
- Bow not included.
Upright Bass Tips: Stuff All the Pros Know and Use (GUITARE BASSE)
Hal Leonard
NS Design, 4-String NXT4a Double Bass-Black (NXT4ADBBK)
NS Design
Product description
The nxta active series double bass, whose electronics are fully based around the Polar pickup system, share the classic body design, ergonomics and performance support options of the CR and EU series. Available in 4 and 5 string configurations, These instruments are produced in the Czech Republic by the same craftsmen who build NS Design most advanced instruments. Arco and pizzicato techniques have almost unlimited expressive potential, thanks to the polar pickup system. A convenient switch allows selection of the traditional Arco mode for percussive attack and dynamic bowed response, or pizzicato mode for a smooth, sustained tone. The solid Maple body and neck, together with the graduated fingerboard, deliver a rich, full tone that rings true for every note. Asymmetrical fingerboard relief facilitates an even 'growl' From the higher strings and a clear, powerful lower register. The adjustable bridge and truss rod allow for low, fast action, or for higher string settings that encourage the traditional acoustic player to 'dig in' With gusto. Several interchangeable performance support systems are available for the nxta upright bass: The NXT tripod stand (standard); The heavy-duty CR tripod stand; The more conventional bass end pin stand and optional conversion kit (used in conjunction with the CR tripod stand); or full mobility either the boomerang strap system or the frame strap system.
- Ns polar pickup system provides beautifully rich and balanced tone
- NXT Active output circuitry ensures compatibility with any amplifier or sound system with full fidelity
- Crafted to exacting standards in the Czech Republic and Includes boomerang strap and padded Gig Bag
- Accepts conventional 3/4 size bass strings as well as NS electric Bass Strings
- Available support options include NXT or CR tripod stand or NS frame strap system for full freedom and mobility while standing
Cremona SB-4 Premier Student Upright Bass - 3/4 Size
Cremona
Product description
The market leader in student basses once again raises the bar for quality and value. The new SB-4 3/4 was upgraded to meet the demands of a more advanced-level student and the working professional. With features like a solid spruce top, a player contoured neck profile, and backed by the legendary Cremona name, this bass is more durable, playable and responsive than others others on the market at twice the price. See for yourself, just listen to or watch the Grand Ole' Opry and you'll see a Cremona SB-4 in action every night!
- Clarity and volume come with a handcarved, properly graduated, select solid spruce top
- Handcarved select solid flamed curly maple back and sides assure a focused sound and attack
- Upgraded Ebonite fingerboard, ebony nut, saddle, and tailpiece are strikingly beautiful and extremely long lasting
- Correct string height, string spacing and neck relief for accurate finger positions and intonation
- Durable black 600-denier padded nylon gig bag for easy storage and transport, bow not included
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is difference between sb 4 and sb3 bass |
| Answer: | It does not come with Fret/octave markers. |
| Question: | Is the SB-4 fingerboard actually ebony |
| Answer: | This is the only color we have at this moment. |
| Question: | Everything in the description references the SB-4, but the title says this is the SB |
| Answer: | The sound is more profundo the low tone are deep |
Product features
The Finest Materials And Workmanship
The market leader in student basses once again raises the bar for quality and value. Modeled after the popular basses from the 1940's and 1950's, the SB-4 easily meets and exceeds the demands of any player, from the working professional to the more advanced-level student. With features like a solid spruce top, a player contoured neck profile, and backed by the legendary Cremona name, this bass is more durable, playable and responsive than other basses on the market at twice the price. Just see for yourself, tune-in to WSM radio or watch the Grand Ole' Opry live on TV and you'll see a Cremona SB-4 in action every night!
Key Features:
- Solid spruce top and flamed curly maple back and sides.
- Violin body shape for traditional look.
- Ebony fingerboard.
- Shaded Amber, matte finish.
- Correct string height, string spacing and neck relief for accurate finger positions and intonation.
- Set-up to Cremona standards at our workshop in the US.
- Includes a durable, padded black 600-dernier nylon gigbag.
- Available in 3/4 size.
- Bow not included.
D'Luca 3/4 Upright Double Bass with Bag and Bow
Product description
D'Luca Upright Double Bass Package. Great instrument at an incredible value, extremely durable, lightweight laminated construction. Fully arched top and back. Select Laminated Spruce Top, Solid Maple Neck, maple back and sides, Rosewood fingerboard and tailpiece. Specially oil-treated hard maple neck, Hard Maple Bridge, Alloy tailpiece, 24:1 ratio Tyrolean-style machine head. Incorporates many features of higher priced models at an economy price to meet most budgets. Features: Ebonized Fingerboard and Fittings, Solid Maple Neck, Easy Tuning, Select Laminated Spruce Top, Maple Sides & Back, Beautiful Brown Finish, Includes Mongolian Horsehair Bow, Deluxe Padded Nylon Bag, Has Extension Polepiece In Bottom.
- Fully arched top and back
- Solid Maple Neck, maple back and sides
- Rosewood fingerboard
- Includes Mongolian Horsehair Bow, Deluxe Padded Nylon Bag
- Has Extension Polepiece In Bottom.
Ibanez UB804 Upright Bass Mahogany Oil Burst w/Tama Roadpro Stand and Gig Bag
Ibanez
Product description
Combining premium materials with a stellar amplification system, the Ibanez Bass Workshop UB804 represents big value in an upright electric bass. Its fretless jatoba fingerboard sits atop a 5-piece maple/walnut neck, with a 34-inch scale length that makes for a smooth transition from an electric bass guitar. Its AeroSilk piezo pickup system allows you to switch seamlessly between playing with fingers and playing with a bow, delivering great tone either way. And musicians at GearNuts love the included TAMA RoadPro stand, which makes the Ibanez Bass Workshop UB804 ready to gig right from the start.
- 4-string Upright Fretless Electric Bass
- Stand - Mahogany Oil Burst
- 5-pc Maple/Walnut Neck
- Jatoba Fingerboard
- with Maple Body
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the bridge arched |
| Answer: | Aside from the visual differences in the SB-4 having an aged look and "Violin style" corner design detail between the upper and lower bouts, the most notable difference is that the SB-4 has a Solid Spruce Top while the SB-3 is all laminate construction. Thanks for the question. |
| Question: | Can the instrument be strung for a left handed player |
| Answer: | Yes, it is ebony fingerboard. |
| Question: | Is this a "D" or "E Flat" neck on this bass |
| Answer: | See my review below. I took a chance and ordered this item based upon the write-up, not the title. And I received an SB-4. It's the "Cremona SB-4 3/4 Size Student Solid-Top Upright Bass," per other websites. |
| Question: | What is the scale length |
| Answer: | The estimated length from the bridge to the nut is around 41.5 inches. |
ChromaCast Upright Guitar Stand 2-Tier Adjustable, Extended Height-Fits Acoustic, Electric, Bass, and Extreme Body Shaped Guitars, 2 Pack
Product description
This Chromecast upright guitar stand features Lightweight tubular construction and adjustable height suitable for most electric, acoustic, bass and extreme shaped guitars. The arms offer foam padding which protect guitars from potential damage while the rubber feet and neck strap provide stability and security. When it's time to go, The unit folds and disassembles for easy transport allowing it to be stored nearly anywhere.
- 2 tier adjustable support rod
- Lightweight and durable steel tubing with Soft rubber padding
- Rubber neck guard locking latch keeps the neck in place
- Collapsible for easy transport and storage
- Higher cradle holds all guitars, basses, ukuleles, and mandolins. Including extreme body styles such as flying vs, zeros and more
- 21" Wide base, cradle, 7" Wide cradle, adjusts from 27" To 40" In height
User questions & answers
| Question: | Would this hold a ukulele |
| Answer: | The body itself is radiused, and each string has its own separate bridge saddle that is height adjustable, so you can fine tune it with basic adjustment. Brian Meader Sales Manager The Guitar Sanctuary |
| Question: | Is it good for Guitar Hero too |
| Answer: | It could but.... More hassle than it is probably worth. To move the bridge pickups would require body modification. The physical bridges(4) and the placement present shorter string length with out regard to the intonation adjustments. The neck seems to me to be shaped to accommodate left hand fingering |
| Question: | Acustic guitars also |
| Answer: | Standard turning on this is E,A,D,G. It comes with D'Addario Strings ECB81 flat wounds, 45-100. The overall scale length of this instrument is 34". Hope this helps. If you have any further questions, please let us know. Thank you. |
| Question: | can it hold an electric bass |
| Answer: | Scale : 864mm/34" |
Pet Vacuum, MOOSOO 5 Max Performance Upright Vacuum Cleaner, 1400W Strong Suction, 5-Stage HEPA Filtration for Carpet, Pet, Hard Floor
MOOSOO M
Product description
MOOSOO Upright Vacuum Cleaner, 20Kpa Strong Suction, 5 Height Setting Modes, 13.12ft Ultra Long Hose Stick Vacuum for Hardwood Floor, Carpet, Pet Hair
- One Vacuum for All Floors: 5 power tool settings to meet all floors and tasks, gently rotate the mode button to change the level of suction based on the surface, auto adjust the suction up or down to grab dirty or protect your luxury carpet, easy and precise maneuvering around your home
- 2.9L Dust Cup + 13.12ft Ultra Long Hose: 2.2 times capacity than a normal cup, 2.9L dust cup captures more dirt at a time. Meanwhile with up to 13.12 feet hose, easy to clean stairs and hard to reach places, flexible floor to ceiling cleaning
- 20Kpa Powerful Suction and H12 HEPA: Moosoo upright vacuum cleaner provides 1400W powerful suction, and with unique R-shaped high-efficiency particulate air filter and powerful suction system, which can capture 99.99% of pet dander, microscopic dust, debris, and allergens, one-way-seal tech blocks allergens re-entering the air
- 3-in-1 Upright Vacuum Cleaner: Attach and Screw to use the vacuum cleaner. With a 400mm and 365mm crevice tool and extension tube, easy to clean curtains, upholstery, or underneath low furniture.
- Package Details: Moosoo U1400-A Vacuum Cleaner with 23ft Power Charger, HEPA Fliter with Mesh Shell, Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool & Extension Tube, 13.12ft Removable Hose, Handle, and 12-month warranty and 7*24 hours online local customer service
Product features
Annular Large-area Hepa
H12 Hepa, Moosoo fully sealed filtration system can capture 99.99% of particles.
Ultra-long Distance Cleaning
Ultra-long hose can be stretched up to 13.12 ft. Extended reach combined with a variety of tool attachments make above-floor cleaning a breeze.
Powerful Motor
The newest 1400W brushless motor can provide a stable 20KPA suction and a large flow rate of up to 61cfm. Become a good helper for your home.
5 Height Settings
Whether it is carpets, shag carpets or floors, etc, the vacuum cleaner will have a perfect height with the surface for cleaning.
2.9L Extra-large Dust Cup and Washable Hepa
Extra-large dust cup can reduce the frequency of dumping garbage and improve your cleaning efficiency.
3-in-1 Multiple Design
This product is additionally equipped with Crevice Tool & Extension Tube & Dusting Brush and, which has three usage modes.
Thomastik-Infeld Spirocore 3/4 Upright Double Bass String Set - Medium Gauge
Thomastik
Product description
Thomastik-Infeld Spirocore for Upright Double Bass are a flexible spiral steel core string that provide a quick response, consistent performance, with gut-like tonal power. These strings have great sustain and a big sound good for many styles, but remain a jazz favorite. You'll also find them on lots of general use basses, for bluegrass, blues, and other styles where that big sound and sustain are prized. These Bass strings are one of the most popular and versatile sets on the market today. Spirocores are equally suited to arco and pizzicato playing, providing exceptionally strong, rich tonal values throughout the range, and giving a crisp sustained pizzicato sound which also makes them popular with jazz players. The Spirocore is a powerful high tension string. Spirocore strings are a further technical development of Thomasik's Kunstler Seil series and have a flexible spiral steel core. This core has greater elasticity than that of conventional strings, which means less inertia and a higher propensity to musical vibration. The sound is full and homogenous, balanced and voluminous. This is a Thomastik-Infeld Spirocore 3/4 Upright Double Bass Medium Gauge String Set. All stings are Chromesteel Wound Flexible Spiral Steel Core.
- Thomastik-Infeld Spirocore for Upright Double Bass are a flexible spiral steel core string that provide a quick response, consistent performance, with gut-like tonal power.
- This flexible steel core has greater elasticity than that of conventional strings, which means less inertia and a higher propensity to musical vibration.
- Full Upright Double Bass String Set
- Medium Gauge
- This Full Set Includes: Chromesteel Wound Flexible Spiral Steel Core G String, Chromesteel Wound Flexible Spiral Steel Core D String, Chromesteel Wound Flexible Spiral Steel Core A String, and Chromesteel Wound Flexible Spiral Steel Core E String
User questions & answers
| Question: | The picture reads S42, the title reads 3/4 size, shich is it!!?!???? They are different |
| Answer: | While the back pole is adjustable, the neck rest will not go any lower than about 20 inches or thereabouts. It will not hold a soprano uke... |
| Question: | Are these the red-red or the purple-red |
| Answer: | The GH Les Paul fits fine.. can't speak to any other guitars from the game, though. |
| Question: | what is the difference btw the weich and the medium in tension and size/sound |
| Answer: | Yes Acoustic guitar is what I have played for years. I was unhappy that it was not steady when I put in guitar on it. The first one That I ordered from Amazon was great was great but, I don't remember the name. Sorry. Barbara |
| Question: | Does this set include the extended e string |
| Answer: | Yes.....my son has his on it right now |
K&M Stands 14100 Upright Bass Stand
Product description
Standard model for all string basses, height-adjustable, soft-rubber-covered adjusting arms.
- Height adjusts from 24-1/2-Inch to 44-Inch
- Steel Stand with black powder coat finish
- Non-marring rubber coated at all points of contact
- Includes bow holder
- Folds compactly for transport
User questions & answers
| Question: | does the bow hook come off |
| Answer: | No it does not. The extended E string needs to be ordered separately, or you need to order the set with the Extended string. |
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