Laminate uprights

[hankster]

Hi all,


Anyone have any thoughts or experience on the Shen laminate basses - SB 88 in particular but on hybrids also? I’m considering a workhorse laminate for gigging. Any thoughts much appreciated.

[edwardofhuncote]

I've played two Shen uprights Richard, but I don't recall what model they were... (been a while) I do remember both were carved-top, but laminate sides and backs. I seem to remember one being significantly better than the one I had a prior experience with, but neither was bad. Perfectly gig-able. I always tell people to budget for a good setup and a set of whatever strings you prefer. Work it into the deal if possible. 

[hankster]

Thanks Gregory. I’m hoping to get a decent case, strings and setup out of the deal. A hybrid would be preferable I think but after 45 years of gigs I’ve sadly concluded that mostly no one will hear the difference except me so I may settle for a fully laminate bass. We’ll see. I’m trying out a few this weekend.

Thanks for your input. I always learn from what you have to say about the doghouses!

[glocke]

Hi all,


Anyone have any thoughts or experience on the Shen laminate basses - SB 88 in particular but on hybrids also? I’m considering a workhorse laminate for gigging. Any thoughts much appreciated.

I had a shen SB80 on rent for almost the past year while I was getting deciding on what I wanted to do about getting my own double bass.  It was not a pleasant instrument to play, mainly due to it not being setup and not having bridge adjusters. 

FWIW, when I was at the Aebersold summer jazz workshop,  Chris Fitzgerald, bass guy at UofL said he tells his students to get a Shen SB88, and I did play the one that he has in his office.  That bass was setup great and played like a dream.   I'd have no problem using that bass, but I ended up going with an Upton std Ply for a few different reasons.

FWIW, if you think you want a hybrid due to better sound, I'd go that route if you have the $$$.  Doesn't matter if others will notice the difference if you enjoy that sound better.