What is the primary benefit of the Stagg Electric Double Bass?

It offers an affordable way to amplify your sound while providing a contemporary design that is more portable than a traditional acoustic double bass. Its dual-purpose electronics allow for both amplified performance and silent headphone practice.

Can this instrument be played silently?

Yes, one of the key features of the Stagg Electric Double Bass is the ability to plug in headphones directly. This allows the player to practice without an external amplifier and without disturbing those around them.

Does the instrument include tone controls?

Yes, it features on-board EQ controls. These allow the user to customise their tone directly on the instrument to suit their playing style or specific venue acoustics.

What size is this specific Stagg model?

This specific model is a 3/4 size double bass. This is the most common size for adult players and is widely used across jazz, classical, and modern music genres.

What finish does this bass have?

The instrument features a glossy metallic black finish. The manufacturer describes this contemporary aesthetic as a 'turn heads' design compared to traditional wood finishes.

Can I connect this bass to an external amplifier?

Yes, the bass is designed to be plugged into an amplifier for added volume. This makes it suitable for rehearsals and live performances where an acoustic bass might struggle to be heard.

How does the price compare to other orchestral instruments?

With a typical price of approximately £647, it is positioned as an affordable entry point for electric upright basses. This makes it more accessible than many professional-grade acoustic double basses or cellos like the Stentor Messina.

Is the Stagg Electric Double Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, its affordability and silent practice features make it an attractive option for students. However, its 3/4 scale means it is sized for adults or older teenagers rather than young children who might use a 1/2 or 1/4 size instrument.

What type of rosin should be used with this instrument?

While no specific rosin is required by the manufacturer, standard double bass rosin is necessary for the bow hair. Accessories like Pirastro Cellisto Cello Rosin are often used for related bowed instruments, though double bassists usually prefer stickier bass-specific rosin.

Does this instrument suffer from feedback like acoustic basses?

Electric upright basses like this Stagg model are generally much less prone to feedback than acoustic basses. Because it lacks a large hollow body, it can be played at higher volumes through an amplifier without the sound looping back through the body.

Is the design traditional or modern?

The design is contemporary and minimalist. It moves away from the traditional bulky acoustic body in favour of a slim frame that is easier to transport while maintaining the correct physical reference points for the player.

Are the strings the same as a standard double bass?

Yes, it uses standard double bass strings appropriate for a 3/4 scale instrument. The player can change these strings to suit their preference for jazz, classical, or rockabilly styles.

Gear article

Stagg Electric Double Bass Metallic Black 3/4

The Stagg Electric Double Bass is a contemporary 3/4 scale instrument designed to provide a portable and versatile alternative to traditional acoustic upright basses. Featuring a sleek metallic black finish and integrated electronics, it allows for both silent practice via headphones and amplified performance through external sound systems.

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Overview

The Stagg Electric Double Bass represents a modern approach to the double bass, prioritising portability and volume control. Built in a 3/4 size, which is the standard for most orchestral and jazz players, the instrument features a minimalist body design finished in a striking metallic black gloss. It serves as a bridge for players who require the ergonomic feel of a traditional bass but need the technical advantages of electronic integration.

Electronics and Sound Customisation

A primary feature of this instrument is its internal preamp system. The bass includes on-board EQ controls, allowing the player to sculpt the tone to suit different musical environments or personal preferences. Unlike acoustic instruments, the volume can be adjusted directly from the bass, making it highly adaptable for small practice rooms or large stage setups.

Practice and Performance Versatility

The instrument is designed with dual-use functionality in mind. For private sessions, it features a dedicated headphone output, enabling silent practice without disturbing others. For live performance or rehearsals, it can be connected to a standard bass amplifier or PA system. This flexibility solves the feedback issues often associated with amplifying traditional acoustic double basses at high volumes.

Comparative Context

While traditional wooden instruments like the Stentor Messina Cello focus on acoustic resonance, the Stagg Electric Double Bass focuses on electronic output. Within the broader market of bowed and upright instruments, it sits alongside entry-level student gear such as the Gear4music Student Cello series but caters specifically to the needs of the modern bassist who requires an affordable, gig-ready electric solution.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the Stagg Electric Double Bass?: It offers an affordable way to amplify your sound while providing a contemporary design that is more portable than a traditional acoustic double bass. Its dual-purpose electronics allow for both amplified performance and silent headphone practice.
Can this instrument be played silently?: Yes, one of the key features of the Stagg Electric Double Bass is the ability to plug in headphones directly. This allows the player to practice without an external amplifier and without disturbing those around them.
Does the instrument include tone controls?: Yes, it features on-board EQ controls. These allow the user to customise their tone directly on the instrument to suit their playing style or specific venue acoustics.
What size is this specific Stagg model?: This specific model is a 3/4 size double bass. This is the most common size for adult players and is widely used across jazz, classical, and modern music genres.
What finish does this bass have?: The instrument features a glossy metallic black finish. The manufacturer describes this contemporary aesthetic as a 'turn heads' design compared to traditional wood finishes.
Can I connect this bass to an external amplifier?: Yes, the bass is designed to be plugged into an amplifier for added volume. This makes it suitable for rehearsals and live performances where an acoustic bass might struggle to be heard.
How does the price compare to other orchestral instruments?: With a typical price of approximately £647, it is positioned as an affordable entry point for electric upright basses. This makes it more accessible than many professional-grade acoustic double basses or cellos like the Stentor Messina.
Is the Stagg Electric Double Bass suitable for beginners?: Yes, its affordability and silent practice features make it an attractive option for students. However, its 3/4 scale means it is sized for adults or older teenagers rather than young children who might use a 1/2 or 1/4 size instrument.
What type of rosin should be used with this instrument?: While no specific rosin is required by the manufacturer, standard double bass rosin is necessary for the bow hair. Accessories like Pirastro Cellisto Cello Rosin are often used for related bowed instruments, though double bassists usually prefer stickier bass-specific rosin.
Does this instrument suffer from feedback like acoustic basses?: Electric upright basses like this Stagg model are generally much less prone to feedback than acoustic basses. Because it lacks a large hollow body, it can be played at higher volumes through an amplifier without the sound looping back through the body.
Is the design traditional or modern?: The design is contemporary and minimalist. It moves away from the traditional bulky acoustic body in favour of a slim frame that is easier to transport while maintaining the correct physical reference points for the player.
Are the strings the same as a standard double bass?: Yes, it uses standard double bass strings appropriate for a 3/4 scale instrument. The player can change these strings to suit their preference for jazz, classical, or rockabilly styles.