The double neck bass is one of the music industry’s most iconic and unusual instruments. It can be seen as both a boon and a bane for musicians, as it can offer great advantages but can also cause difficulties. This blog post will explore the pros and cons of the double neck bass, looking at how it can be used creatively and can be a hindrance. Read on to learn more about why the double neck bass is both a blessing and a curse for musicians.
The double neck bass gives the musician more flexibility
The double neck bass gives musicians a wider range and enables them to create various sounds on the same instrument. This is especially helpful for bassists who want to expand their tone range or give any band a wider soundstage. One can play a 4-string bass on one side of a double neck bass and a 5-string bass on the other. This offers a far larger number of notes than a single bass guitar. It also makes various music and styles available, enabling greater versatility and experimentation.
In addition to the increased range of notes that can be played, the double neck bass can also provide players with access to different tunings. With one side of the bass being tuned differently from the other, this allows for a wider range of sonic possibilities. Different tunings can offer a different timbre and open up new melodic and harmonic possibilities.
Overall, the double neck bass provides a great range of possibilities for the musician, allowing them to expand their tonal palette and explore new musical avenues.
The double neck bass can be more cumbersome to play
While having two necks can expand a musician’s ability to express themselves musically, it also has disadvantages. Since double neck basses typically weigh more and are larger in size, they might be difficult to play. It can be challenging to play one neck at a time since one must constantly switch their attention from one neck to the other. To achieve the best sound, many double neck basses need two different amplifiers. This makes playing the instrument even more challenging. Despite these limitations, some musicians have risen to the occasion and discovered strategies for turning the double neck bass into a potent weapon.
The double neck bass can be expensive
Many musicians looking to add a double neck bass to their instrument collection might be discouraged by the price tag that comes with it. Double neck basses can cost thousands of dollars, which can be even higher depending on the materials used or the type of craftsmanship involved. Not only is the initial purchase cost of a double neck bass expensive, but it also requires additional accessories like straps, pickups, strings, and other items, making it even more expensive. Additionally, many professional musicians might need to pay for custom-made double neck basses that are built specifically for their needs.
Despite the high cost, many musicians will still choose to invest in a double neck bass because of its range and flexibility. Musicians who use the instrument regularly often swear by it, believing its advantages far outweigh its drawbacks. However, for those who may be on a tighter budget, it is important to consider the full cost associated with investing in a double neck bass before making a purchase.
Conclusion
The double neck bass can be a great addition to a musician’s toolkit, allowing for greater range and expression. However, it can also be expensive and difficult to play, making it a difficult decision for some musicians. Ultimately, the double neck bass is a powerful instrument that can add something special to any performance or recording session. If you are considering adding one to your setup, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making the final decision.