[quote name='fatback' post='1161936' date='Mar 14 2011, 04:03 PM']It doesn't say much about the Baliol. You might want to get an experienced player to take a look,a dn you might want to check how well they set up these basses before they sell.
Having been through the pain of researching to get my own first db, I'd say the following are the things to take into account:
Any 3/4 size is good.
Ebony (not 'ebonised') board is a must
All laminate is fine, especially if it's an old bass. Solid top is a bit better.
Strings - you'll end up changing them anyway eventually, but if you mean to play in a loud band you might want to think ahead to using a magnetic pickup rather than a Piezo like the shadow. If you do go that way, you'll need steel strings. Also, not all strings are equally bowable, so you might want to think about that if you mean to take lessons with the bow. Strings are pricey, so you might want to get the ones you want included when you buy. Don't agonise about this bit though. The strings/pickup quest seems never to end. If the bass is good, you can sort those things later.
Bridge: adjustable is great, if you can get it. If not, you need to be sure the action is ok for you.
Hope this helps. [/quote]
Hi, very helpful, thank you very much!
I rang them, and it's a 1960s all-laminate. The bridge is not adjustable, but he said the action was ideal for country/bluegrass stuff. As I'm not used to playing upright, I might be able to come to terms with the action however it comes>?!
It isn't an ebony board, however. The guy wasn't sure what it was, but thought it was pearlwood. How big of a deal is this?
Aled