Double bass accessories

(Originally written by la basse orange/translated from Audiofanzine FR)
- How long have you been using it?

I installed this pickup on my double bass six months ago (January 2008).

Very easy installation: just lift the bridge and attach the preamp to the strings between the bridge and the tailpiece.

- Which feature do you like the most / the least?

Pros: linear sound response and easy setup.

Cons: it sounds quite harsh with a bow even if it sounds better than a piezo pickup! The output level is too low (lower than a passive bass) and the controls of the preamp are really cheap...

- Did you try any other models before buying it?

I tested many others... But none of them sounded good. There aren't many options to amplify a double bass!

- How would you rate its value for money?

It was rather expensive... but everything is expensive in the double bass world!

- Based on your experience, would you buy this product again?

Yes.

Update from 03.10.2009: after one year of use, I still mean what I wrote: its great for live sound but some good condenser mics will give much better results in the studio (which is quite normal!). However, I had the opportunity to try out other systems with integrated mics and I noticed that they sound better. The sound is more authentic and the definition better. But these systems aren't convenient on stage because they produce feedbacks pretty easily. That's the reason I think a pickup is still the best solution for live gigs.

I use it for 3 years, it is a model that can fit the picnic with three screws. It is simple and effective, the rubber ball is perfect for "curb picnic on any type of flooring, parquet, linoleum, carpet, tile. Frankly for the price, there is no risk!

This is not a product of France europe violin but Sebim! Not to be confused, thank you