Bass Hangout - Other Bass-Related Topics Forum Feed

Kay basses

eric@basshangout.com — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 14:32:55 CST

I'm a bluegrass guitar picker who's thinking about buying a used upright bass to fool around with. It seems that in bluegrass circles, old Kay basses from the 60s or before are held in high regard, and seem to command a decent price. On the other hand, as a guitar player I'm aware that Kay acoustic guitars from that era are viewed as cheap down-market instruments that are not particularly good. Since I know next to nothing about basses, I was wondering if someone could clue me in about what makes old Kay basses desirable for playing bluegrass. My theory is that if their guitars were cheap and not particularly good (which has been the case with the few Kay guitars I've played at flea markets and garage sales) then it stands to reason that their other instrument lines would be similar. And I don't feel qualified to judge how good a bass is by plucking a few of its strings.

Soundcloud Fretless Bass Group

eric@basshangout.com — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:59:58 CST

Not sure if this is the right forum but I just started a Fretless Bass Group on Soundcloud for any of you bassists to upload your tracks to.

The group can be found @

http://soundcloud.com/groups/fretless-bass

Thanks.

Alembic distillate 1982 vs. Fender Jazz 1974

eric@basshangout.com — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 10:55:18 CST

Hi everyone! new in this forum. I'd like to get some advice on what to do:I have been proposed an exchange, my alembic distillate 1982 (VG+) for a fender jazz 1974 (very used with visible wears and scraps on the body).. Now, except for the vintage "added" value of the FJ, I really don't know anything about the real value of both basses... what do you suggest?

thanx in advance!!

American Standard

eric@basshangout.com — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 09:05:17 CST

Need some shopping advice. I am looking at a late 30's American Standard bass.It is in good condition and they are asking $2000 Is that a reasonable price?

I quit after seeing this

eric@basshangout.com — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 01:42:14 CST

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJmyUzu6uU8 Victor Wooten and Jacob Armen..these 2 guys are like glue man! Jacob's Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/pages/JACOB-ARMEN/262126195887

i think its a kay

eric@basshangout.com — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:07:12 CST

what do you think? this was my great great uncles. i know its from 1926 and the guy who bought it from my uncle is the one i bought it from he told me he said its a kay. no markings in it. he had it for thirty years until he offered it to me and its a long story but the short half is i own it now so what to you think the make is . if you need more pics let me know ill do it !! Doc.

Weed Eater String slap bass buying advice

eric@basshangout.com — Sun, 7 Nov 2010 01:45:20 CST

I play banjo mostly now but with the need for bass players I want to pick it up. I'm already competent on most bluegrass songs. would like to play slap as Rockabilly is my first love. been thinking about buying one of these chinese weed eater string basses since they can paint them to look good as a showpiece and since I'll mostly be learning. anyone use the weed whacker strings on here? I know they are not as loud but also not as hard on your fingers. anyway any advice would be helpful. thanks, K.

Bass player wanted

eric@basshangout.com — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 13:33:30 CST

I am a 5 string banjo player forming a band with experimental individuals who are looking to collaborate on a musical project with flavors of Jam band, 60's surf, soul, classic rock and Jazz, , let's collaborate. We are looking for a bass player to fill the shoes !! Give me a shout

need help to ID bass

eric@basshangout.com — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 18:23:34 CST

The old bass shown in pictures on my home page http://www.basshangout.com/my/bbeckner has been in my friends family for many years and played a lot of music. Can anyone help identify the manufacture? The back has an interesting contour not seen on other bases. The bottom has been repaired with sheet metal and wood screws. Any help or suggestions about getting more information will be greatly appreciated. Bill

What is the difference in bass sizes?

eric@basshangout.com — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 14:50:05 CST

I see 3/4 size, 1/2 size, and 4/4 size in ads but have no idea what I have in terms of scale. I have a 1953 American Standard.

Barry Bales video contest - win valuable prizes

eric@basshangout.com — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 12:59:24 CST

[img=left]http://www.acutab.com/search_images/bb_dvd.jpg[/img=left]To celebrate the release of our Barry Bales bass DVD, AcuTab Publications is delighted to announce our Have Bass Will Travel video contest, in association with Colorado Case, The Bass Strummit, D’Addario and The Bluegrass Blog. One lucky winner will come away with over $900 in useful bass gear and instruction, and everyone who takes part should have a big time. And it doesn’t cost a thing to enter. All you need is a camera or phone that shoots video, an internet connection and a YouTube account. Oh… and a good sense of humor! http://www.thebluegrassblog.com/have-bass-will-travel/ The name of the contest is Have Bass Will Travel, and entries should take up the theme of the video Barry shot showing some unorthodox ways he gets his bass around on the farm (see below). To enter, make your own video showing how you travel with your upright bass. It could show how you squeeze it into a small vehicle, or how you prepare for a journey by air. Anything goes – just use you imagination, and think Have Bass Will Travel. We won’t judge so much on image quality and editing skills as on creativity, cleverness and good humor. If the idea of creating your own video response doesn’t sound like enough fun on it’s own, just check out these great prizes: Six finalists will be chosen by The Bluegrass Blog, each of whom will receive a set of D’Addario HH610 Helicore bass strings (3/4 size, medium tension). These are the strings that Barry uses on his bass, and carry a retail value of $225. The six finalists will also receive an autographed copy of Barry’s AcuTab bass DVD, A Solid Foundation to Acoustic Bass. The video runs nearly two and a half hours, and has Barry covering proper left and right hand technique, plus important topics like tone production, walking bass, percussive ‘ghost’ notes, and more. From these six finalists, Barry will choose a winner, who will receive both of these prizes in addition to the strings and autographed DVD: A custom Colorado Case 3/4 size soft bass case, valued at $449.95. The winner will be able to choose from among the several color options available, and their finished case will be delivered directly from the manufacturer. These premium soft cases are designed to provide an R8 insulation and complete protection from the weather. They are made from 1000 denier Dupont Cordura and come with a lifetime warranty. The case features a bow pocket, cargo pocket, zippered pocket, removable shoulder strap, backpack straps and various carrying handles. It features 3/4#8243; of both closed and open cell laminated foams as padding. This case is quickly becoming the bluegrass standard and is equally at home in a festival or studio. And… free registration and accommodations at Bass Stummit III in Roanoke, VA on January 1-2, 2011. This 2 day bass workshop will feature hands-on instruction from several top bluegrass bassist – Barry Bales, Missy Raines, Jason Moore and Mike Conner. Famed bass luthier Jerry Fretwell will also be on hand to lead a clinic on maintenance and repair, and to do any work that can be completed on site. You can see the full Strummit schedule online. Tuition for both days, with rooms, is valued at $330. http://www.thebassstrummit.blogspot.com Here are the official contest rules and entry requirements:

All video entries must be posted to YouTube. You may post them as video responses to Barry’s video, or upload them to your own account and send us the link. Send all Have Bass Will Travel email communications to basscontest@thebluegrassblog.com.
Any obscene, profane or plainly obnoxious videos will be disqualified from entry. Any videos that violate the YouTube terms of service will likewise be disqualified.
Entries will be accepted until August 20, 2010 at which time the six finalists will be announced.
Employees, contributors or advertisers with The Bluegrass Blog are not eligible to enter, nor are employees of D’Addario, AcuTab, Colorado Case of The Bass Strummit.

Bluegrass Slow Jam in Burlington, MA

eric@basshangout.com — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 08:55:13 CST

You're invited to a directed Bluegrass Slow Jam at The Real School of Music in Burlington, MA. An experienced jam leader, guitar player, and banjo player will lead the group through fun to play bluegrass standards. If you've ever stood by on the sidelines wishing to take part, this is your chance to jump in and get your feet wet in a totally supportive atmosphere where anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, bass, dobro or fiddle is welcome! Singing is strongly encouraged (you don’t have to sing on key). The session will take place on June 17, 2010, from 8:00pm until 9:30pm on Thursday night at 56 Middlesex Turnpike (exit 32B on the 128/95 across from Trader Joe's). Cost for the night will be $20. The Traditional Music Project The Real School of Music 56 Middlesex Turnpike Burlington, MA 01803 1-(888)-881-7325 http://therealschoolofmusic.com/

Bluegrass bassist wanted - Sacramento area

eric@basshangout.com — Mon, 7 Jun 2010 16:09:04 CST

Hi, bass fans... The bass player in our band passed away a couple weeks ago and we are looking for a replacement. We want someone who is good enough to play with but not so good that you're in demand and in several other bands. We play out 2-4 times monthly; we play festivals, wineries, county fairs, private parties, etc. We're playing the Horse Show coming up in Sacramento June 11, 12 & 13th. We usually rehearse on Thursdays so if you're looking, we might want you! [:D] Please send me a msg if you're interested... Erik The Pope

can anyone ID this bass

eric@basshangout.com — Fri, 28 May 2010 12:26:00 CST

I bought this from a guy who said he sold it to a guy for his son (punk rock bass player) and bought it back after he pretty much destroyed it. Structually its fine but it sure is ugly LOL. I was told it was a 60's Fender but I kinda doubt it. I bought it based on it being a junked out old no name bass so I'm not out anything if its not a Fender. [;)] Any and all opinions are welcome and Thanks Craig

Collectors corner

eric@basshangout.com — Mon, 24 May 2010 11:17:15 CST

The other sites have collector [or vintage] forums. Any chance of Bass having one? Does anyone collect. I have 2 but I just play them [ one fretted/one frettless] Vintage amps?

Bass Strings

eric@basshangout.com — Sun, 23 May 2010 18:34:49 CST

I am a beginner Bass player, bluegrass only. I have a 1963 Kay M1, nice bass. But I'm not liking the strings, been thinking about changing them, but the cost makes it a bit hard to experement. Does anyone know anything about the, Black Diamond Dog House Bass strings. They are supposed to be especially for Bluegrass playing. So far I can't find anyone using them. Also, if I should change strings, does anyone buy used strings, they are only a couple months old? Thanks for any help you may be able to give.

Guild Starfire II...

eric@basshangout.com — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 13:37:08 CST

There is a Starfire II on eBay: http://cgi.ebay.com/Mint-Condition-Pristine-Guild-Starfire-II-Bass-w-case_W0QQitemZ250597355512QQcmdZViewItemQQptZGuitar?hash=item3a58c42ff8 This guy says he bought it brand new in 2002 and it does look pretty pristine. I always thought that Guild stopped making them in the '70s some time (mine is from '72, S/N 71738). The S/N of his is AG100268 and there is no S/N info on the Guild site from '98 to 2005. Anyone know the story on these Guild basses? Thanks...

Bass banjo youtube

eric@basshangout.com — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 15:35:52 CST

Check out this monster: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_7k0VjLY2w&feature=related

FYI: washtub and gutbucket aficionados...

eric@basshangout.com — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 10:20:33 CST

I started this group yesterday...could be of interest to some here: http://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/group.php?groupid=156

Slow Jam Workshop in Framingham Massachusetts

eric@basshangout.com — Fri, 5 Mar 2010 09:40:17 CST

The Slow Jam Workshop will run for six weeks Monday nights April 5, 2010 — May 10, 2010 Time is from 7:30-9:30 p.m. The Slow Jam Workshop will focus on jamming etiquette, getting people to play together, and having fun while learning. We will also cover: The Circle of fifths and how to use it The Nashville Numbering System and how to use it Common Bluegrass chord progressions Bass runs Lead-ins Turnarounds Fills and where to use them Back-up techniques Chord construction Kick-offs Key transposition Endings All Bluegrass instruments welcome — Guitar, Mandolin, Bass (acoustic), Dobro™, Fiddle, and Banjo. Other instruments with prior approval of facilitators. Who would benefit from the workshop — anyone who canback up chord changes from and to a G, C, D, A, and E chord on their instrument and wants to have fun learning how to be a contributing member of a jam. We have run this workshop at least a half dozen times in the past few years and the participants always have fun and develop excellent jamming skills. Fee: $90.00 for six week session Held at Amazing Things, 160 Hollis Street Framingham, MA You must preregister Facilitators: Pat Rooney and Heavy Thumb Contact: slowjamworkshop@yahoo.com Heavy Thumb 508-429-5504 (home) Pat Rooney 508-634-6733 (home)

archive.org - lots of free live music

eric@basshangout.com — Tue, 2 Feb 2010 12:59:59 CST

Hey all, I'm mostly over at Banjo Hangout but thought I'd stop by to let you know about a source for live concerts. I've been working with them to help spread the word. It's totally free and a non-profit library organization dedicated to archiving tons of stuff and making it all accessible for free. http://www.archive.org/details/etree There's a number of bluegrass and bands with banjo on there and lot of other good stuff too. Here's a list I compiled at a glance but I'm guessing there are some others too: .357 String Band Acoustic Syndicate Arthur Lee Land Assembly of Dust Back Forty Bad Livers Barefoot Manner Bela Fleck and the Flecktones Big Daddy Bluegrass Band Big Smith Blue Turtle Seduction Blueground Undergrass Borrowed Angels Brittany Reilly Broke Mountain Bluegrass Band Butterjive Cadillac Sky Carolina Chocolate Drops Cast Iron Filter Chatham County Line Cindy Woolf Cornmeal Cross-eyed Rosie Danny Barnes Del McCoury Band Dirtfoot Don Reno Dread Clampitt Flat Mountain Girls Girls, Guns and Glory Green Mountain Grass Greensky Bluegrass Hackensaw Boys Hayseed Dixie Tony Trishka Uncle Earl It's all free and most of it can be downloaded or streamed. If you have recordings you'd like to upload they encourage that too. You would first email them to get a page set up. You have to have have permission to include these as it is a non-commercial, trade-friendly site. Also, Deadheads love it…over 7,000 concerts on line! There's lots of other great stuff on the site too. Check out the movies and the Wayback Machine. If you enjoy it you can add a link to your sites or blogs. There is also a blog at: http://internetarchive.wordpress.com/ Best, Jeff

look at this guy

eric@basshangout.com — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 14:29:22 CST

I ran across this on bho. Watch the guy with the upright. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeJ5SUQ2qYM [:p]

Jamming website for Michiganders

eric@basshangout.com — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 07:42:05 CST

Feel free to check out this website for communicating jams in Michigan: http://michigan-musicians.ning.com/

Make electric sound acoustic?

eric@basshangout.com — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:11:25 CST

I ask this out of complete ignorance.......Is it possible to make an electric bass sound like a acoustic double bass. I would like to add bass to the guitar and banjo tunes I have recorded but just don't like the way an electric bass track sounds in there. I would love to have an upright bass fiddle but haven't been able to convince my wife that it could be considered furniture too. Thanks

Born? -or- Made?

eric@basshangout.com — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 07:50:15 CST

Years ago, while reading Bass Player magazine, I came across an article which brought up the hypothesis that most bass players are "made" not "born". This idea struck a chord with me. I fall firmly into this category, as I picked the bass mainly because all of my friends who played it were busy. I am mainly a guitarist, so the addition helped me better understand the lower perspective. Therefore, as a bassist, I was made not born. Where do you fall in these two categories? Was bass your first (perhaps only..) instrument? Just curious.[8D] ~guitdawg~

What do you drive?

eric@basshangout.com — Wed, 2 Dec 2009 14:49:35 CST

Playing acoustic upright is one thing. Getting to the gig is something else altogether. So my question is what do you drive around when you have to take the bass, and are there any special tricks to getting the bass in and out of your particular vehicle of choice or keeping it safe on the road. What do you say when someone says, "Oh, we'll just put the bass in the back seat of my Prius and ....."

Jack Cooke RIP

eric@basshangout.com — Wed, 2 Dec 2009 12:24:37 CST

Jack Cooke passed away last night (December 1). As the bass player for the Clinch Mountain Boys for over 40 years, he was an integral part of the Stanley sound and a friendly, outgoing presence both onstage and off. He will be missed. http://www.thebluegrassblog.com/jack-cooke-rip/

Sympathetic string bass

eric@basshangout.com — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:04:52 CST

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crSi9IxPfYA&feature=related

ashbory bass?

eric@basshangout.com — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 09:15:42 CST

Any one here got one? I've been eyeing them for a while. The small size (I'm a smallish person with short arms and tiny hands) and lack of frets (I play fiddle and find being tethered to frets very frustrating) appeals to me. I hear their strings break easy. I haven't a clue what to amplify one with. It would be my only bass if I do take the plunge. Is that imaginable?

Do you play Double Bass or Electric ?

eric@basshangout.com — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 04:48:24 CST

Hello Bass players , There was a post asking Eric ( the web master ) to create a forum topic for Double Bass , and I was wondering how many of you are interested in Double Bass and how many are interested in Electric Bass. For the record I mostly play Double Bass at least for the last 10 years or so. let me know what you play , or are aspiring to play. Thanks John

Clip-on tuner

eric@basshangout.com — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:43:12 CST

Does anyone know of any good clip-on tuners? I am looking for one under $30. Thanks for your help!

Gold Tone Banjo Bass

eric@basshangout.com — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:36:57 CST

Anybody else have one of these gems? If so, whatcha think?