Trystan Casey
Electric upright basses are sought after for their portability, robustness, and affordability compared to acoustic basses. However, they are still considered expensive, with prices for a quality instrument starting at around $1500 and going up to $2000 or more. The cost is influenced by factors such as the materials used in construction, which can include maple, spruce, and ebony, as well as the unique design and sound characteristics of these basses.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Electric upright basses can cost upwards of $1500, with some acoustic basses costing as much as $100,000 or more. |
| Portability | Electric upright basses are easier to transport than acoustic basses, as they can be broken down into a case small enough to fit in overhead carry-on luggage on a plane. |
| Durability | Electric upright basses are more durable than acoustic basses, which are fragile and can be damaged during travel. |
| Sound | Electric upright basses have a different sound than acoustic basses, with a more electric or hybrid sound between upright and electric. |
| Strings | Electric upright basses use thicker strings than violins or violas, tuned to the same notes as the lowest four strings on an electric guitar (E-A-D-G) but an octave lower. |
| Play Style | Electric upright basses are played similarly to acoustic basses, either with the fingers in a plucking, thumping, or slapping fashion, or with a bow. |
| Materials | Electric upright basses are typically made with maple, spruce, and ebony, while less expensive options may have laminated tops and backs. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric upright basses are more durable than acoustic basses
The durability of EUBs also makes them more affordable in the long run. Acoustic basses can be expensive, with some costing as much as $100,000 or more. The risk of damage during use or travel further increases the cost of ownership. In contrast, EUBs are generally more affordable and better suited for situations where the instrument may be exposed to less-than-ideal conditions or questionable weather.
The materials used in the construction of EUBs may also contribute to their durability. While acoustic basses are typically made from maple, spruce, and ebony, less expensive EUBs may have laminated tops and backs, which can enhance their resilience. Additionally, the design of EUBs makes them more versatile. They can be played with the fingers in a plucking, thumping, or slapping fashion, or with a bow, similar to a cello.
The strings used on EUBs also contribute to their durability. EUBs are typically strung with four strings that are thicker than those on a violin or viola. These strings are tuned to the same notes as the lowest four strings on an electric guitar but are tuned down one octave in pitch. The thicker strings and lower tension can reduce the risk of string breakage compared to acoustic basses.
Overall, the durability of electric upright basses makes them a more practical and cost-effective option compared to acoustic basses, especially for musicians who travel frequently or perform in a variety of venues and weather conditions.
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The materials used to construct the bass impact the cost
The choice of strings can also affect the price. For example, the NS Bass, a well-known electric upright bass, uses specially sized Helicore Orchestra strings, which are shorter and have shorter afterlength silks. These strings are designed to fit the NS Bass's unique design, and they can add to the overall cost of the instrument.
The type of wood used for the body of the bass can also impact the price. While maple is a common choice for the back and neck, other woods such as ash or mahogany may be used for the body, which can affect the cost. Additionally, the use of solid wood versus laminated wood can also impact the price, with solid wood instruments often being more expensive due to the higher-quality tone wood used in their construction.
The hardware and electronics used in the bass can also affect the price. Higher-quality hardware, such as tuning machines and bridges, can increase the cost of the instrument. Additionally, the inclusion of active electronics, such as built-in preamps and equalizers, can also drive up the price of an electric upright bass.
It's important to note that the cost of an electric upright bass is not solely determined by the materials used but also by other factors such as brand, craftsmanship, and demand. However, the materials and components used can significantly impact the overall price and quality of the instrument.
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The strings used can make the bass more expensive
The strings used can make the electric upright bass more expensive. The type of strings used on an electric upright bass can significantly impact its sound and playability, and certain strings may be more costly than others.
For example, NS Basses, such as the NS Design WAV and NXT models, typically come equipped with NS Electric "Contemporary" strings, which are designed to produce a more electric-like sound with greater sustain and string detail. However, some players may prefer the sound and feel of traditional upright bass strings, which offer a warmer and more acoustic-like tone. Using strings that lean towards a more URB-oriented sound will effectively counterbalance the electric nature of the bass.
Strings such as the D'Addario Helicore Orchestra strings and the Pirastro Obligatos are commonly used to achieve this sound. The Helicore Orchestra strings, in particular, are offered in different tension options, allowing players to customize their instrument's response and playability. These strings are also available in shorter lengths, making them suitable for NS Basses without the need to wrap the strings around the bottom of the bass.
Additionally, the type of core and wrapping material used in the strings can impact their cost and sound characteristics. Synthetic core strings with a thin metal wrapping, such as the D'Addario Helicore Contemporary Double Bass set, produce a brighter sound with lower tension. On the other hand, gut strings or synthetic strings designed to emulate gut strings offer a warmer and thicker sound with less sustain, resembling the tone of traditional upright basses.
The choice of strings can be a significant factor in the overall cost of an electric upright bass. While some strings may be more expensive upfront, they can also provide the desired sound and feel that justifies their price. It's important for players to consider their musical needs and preferences when choosing strings, as the right set of strings can enhance their playing experience and the overall tone of their instrument.
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Electric upright basses are generally more affordable than acoustic basses
One of the main reasons for the higher cost of acoustic basses is the materials used in their construction. Acoustic basses are typically made from maple, spruce, and ebony, with the more expensive instruments featuring solid wood construction. Electric upright basses, on the other hand, can be made with less expensive materials, such as laminated tops and backs, without sacrificing sound quality.
Additionally, EUBs offer greater portability and convenience than acoustic basses. They often break down into a compact case that can fit into overhead carry-on space on a plane, eliminating the need for costly and risky checked baggage. This makes EUBs ideal for travelling musicians who need to transport their instruments safely and easily.
While electric upright basses may have a different feel and tone than acoustic basses, they can still produce high-quality sound. EUBs are popular in jazz and big band performances where extra volume is needed. With the right setup and modifications, an electric upright bass can be tailored to suit your playing style and preferences.
Overall, electric upright basses offer a more affordable, durable, and portable option compared to acoustic basses. With a range of price points and customization options available, EUBs provide a cost-effective solution for musicians seeking a versatile and reliable instrument.
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The radius of the board impacts the price
The radius of the fingerboard on a bass instrument is a key factor in its playability and, consequently, its price. A larger radius will result in a fingerboard with a flatter curve, while a smaller radius creates a more rounded fingerboard. Upright basses, being larger instruments, tend to have flatter fingerboards, which accommodate the longer scale length and thicker strings. Creating a flat fingerboard requires more precise workmanship and often utilizes more expensive wood, as the wood needs to be strong, stable, and free of defects that could affect playability.
The radius can also impact the price of an electric upright bass due to the level of customization required. A custom-made instrument with a specific radius will demand a higher price because of the specialized work involved. The builder must take into account the customer's preferences and the specific radius' impact on playability. This often involves a back-and-forth collaborative process, which naturally increases the cost.
Additionally, the radius of the fingerboard affects the setup and adjustment process. A larger radius may require a different type of bridge and specialized adjustments to ensure correct string action and intonation. These adjustments are often more time-consuming and intricate, again increasing the overall cost of the instrument.
The wood used for the fingerboard also comes into play here. Different types of wood have varying responses to the radius. For example, a dense wood like ebony might be more stable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, making it ideal for a flatter fingerboard. Sourcing such high-quality wood adds to the expense, especially for custom-made instruments.
In summary, the radius of the fingerboard has a significant impact on the playability, construction, and customization of an electric upright bass, all of which contribute to its final price tag. A larger radius, while offering specific benefits in terms of playability and feel, demands precise workmanship, specialized adjustments, and careful consideration of the wood choice. These factors combine to influence the cost, making these custom-radius instruments a worthwhile but more expensive option for bass players.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric upright basses are not necessarily expensive. In fact, they are generally much more affordable than acoustic basses. However, the price for a good acoustic bass can be as high as $100,000 or more.
The price range for electric upright basses varies. While some cheaper options start at around $1500, others can cost upwards of $2000.
When choosing an electric upright bass, it is important to consider the tone, radius of the board, and whether it can be used for bowing. Additionally, the neck size and shape of the EUB should feel similar to a "real" bass.
