Reviews

We are looking for a good 5-string instrument but there doesn't seem to be many available on the market - can you tell me why? Yes - there really aren't that many good five string instruments about simply because there aren't that many instruments available that have the correct proportions and structural integrity to be able to handle the fifth string and those lower notes. It's just no good whacking a five string neck on to a standard sized 4/4 size instrument and expect it to produce the goods. What would make the ideal 5-string instrument then? How about this...

Who was Gordon Neal? Gordon Neal (b-1929, d-1978) was a member of the London Symphony Orchestra for twenty-two years. Prior to his joining the LSO and whilst still studying at the Manchester College of Music with Arthur Shaw he gained work as an extra with the Halle Orchestra in Manchester. In 1952 Neal was appointed a member of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and it was in 1956 that he joined the LSO. Neal was a close friend of the eminent bass player Stuart Knussen (b-1923, d-1998) who was the principal of the LSO for nineteen years and the...

Wow - what an awesome looking double bass. Yes agreed. In terms of size this is definitely what one would call a true 5/4 instrument. In terms of the model one just knows that this is something very special and in terms of the instrument's sound – we can assure you that this too is in a class of its own. Really - I have never ever seen anything quite like this instrument. Can you point out some of its more intriguing features please? Yes. The back, ribs and scroll are made from walnut and as you can see it...

I need an instrument that is easy to get around and over – has a big, clear sound and is preferably Italian. What can you recommend? That - I have to say is a pretty big request. Fortunately this gorgeous instrument by Luigi Ferrarotti ticks all the right boxes. It has a length of back measurement of only 107.5cm, a string length of only 103.6cm and possesses a volume and quality of sound that is sure to out perform and out class many instrument of much larger dimensions and costing much, much more. The instrument looks in great condition. Yes -...