Introducing a new generation of The Ergo double bass! This modern contrabass is a joint collaboration between Upton Bass and Arnold E. Schnitzer, developing his unique Ergonomic Contrabass for production here at Upton Bass. At Upton Bass, we're always trying to apply tabula rasa, or "clean slate" thinking. That's exactly what drove our colleague Arnold to design this futuristic, ergonomic double bass: "It is asymmetrical as a matter of form following function. The upper bout is wide enough to allow for a deep, punchy tone, yet the reduced treble side shoulder provides outstanding access to the upper register. The lower…
View Full PostA hidden talent of our Rev Solo pickup is that it's simply the best double bass pickup for recording direct. The clarity of the Rev Solo really shines in digital recordings, and it's the only quality bass pickup that can easily be adjusted by the player for tonal characteristics. That flexibility really sets it apart when working in a project studio! It can be challenging enough to record at home, never mind searching for a quiet room with good acoustics or paying for German microphones. You may already have an Upton Rev Solo on your upright bass for live sound…
View Full PostLuthier's notes from Eric: "Most amazing Brescian yet! Deep ribs (almost 9"!) spalted big leaf Maple that kept ruining blades as it had a bullet in it!" We imagined several stories - was the tree outside Elvis's window? Was the lumber in the trunk of Steve McQueen's Mustang? The depth in the wood and pathless imbedding as the tree grew suggests a much older story. The new owner agreed the bullet was such an interesting feature of the "spalting" that it should remain! Highly flamed Maple was selected for the neck and scroll. The Brescian was completed with high-gloss dark…
View Full PostUpton Bass Brescian Model Double Bass, 2020, Opus 203 This new Brescian was particularly rewarding to make, it's a state-of-the-art fully carved version with exceptional wood - figured Spruce top and rippling Big Leaf Maple back and sides cut from the same board. The new owner knew he wanted a premium bass from the start, but began by ordering a UB Standard Laminate to see if we "lived up to the hype." He loves that bass so much, he ordered this one and had us match the string length so he can bounce back and forth! This contrabass features our…
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