Double Basses

Double Basses for Sale

The largest and lowest-pitched of the four main orchestral string instruments — alongside the cello, viola and violin — the double bass provides low end, harmonic foundation and rhythmic grounding to a wide variety of ensembles. Beyond the orchestra, the double bass is integral to jazz, bluegrass, rockabilly and folk, and has played an important role in country, blues, rock 'n' roll and other styles.

It can be played with a bow (arco) or with the fingers (pizzicato), and goes by different names in different musical settings. The most common names are the double bass and the upright bass. The acoustic bass is also a common name used to differentiate the instrument from the electric bass guitar.

Music & Arts offers a wide selection of double basses from trusted brands like Eastman, Scherl & Roth, Maple Leaf Strings, Cremona and Strobel, with various models designed for students, intermediate players and professionals.

How to Choose the Right Double Bass

Here are some of the key factors to consider when buying a double bass:

Size: When shopping for a new double bass, it's essential to find the correct size. An instrument of the correct size is more comfortable and encourages better posture and technique, leading to a better overall sound. The most common bass size for adult musicians is 3/4, with 7/8 being favored by some experienced orchestral players. Smaller basses are great for young learners or other players who prefer a more compact instrument.

For help with sizing, check out the information in our Sizing Guide and on our Bass Rental Page, or stop by your local Music & Arts for guidance from our expert associates.

Student musicians will progress on the bass as they grow, requiring instrument upsizes along the way. To avoid multiple instrument purchases, rent a double bass with Music & Arts — the nation's leading rental provider, backed by the largest repair network.

Materials: In addition to the craftsmanship, the materials used to make the double bass improve between price points. Here are some common build types you'll notice when shopping:

• Laminated: Laminate is a type of layered-wood material most often used to make beginner-friendly double basses. Laminated basses lack the rich depth of tone and resonance of fully carved basses or many hybrid basses, but they can appeal to musicians of all skill levels for their excellent durability and ease of amplification. (Because laminate is less sensitive overall than carved wood, laminated basses feed back less.) Many upright bassists in bluegrass and rockabilly — who use the pizzicato slap technique and need a solid amplified thump — prefer laminated instruments. Touring musicians, including jazz players, may also prefer a laminated instrument for its affordability and its ability to withstand wear and tear, especially dramatic changes in humidity and temperature. Most student basses you'll encounter will be made of laminate.
• Hybrid: Hybrid basses are typically constructed using a solid carved top and laminated back and sides. This style is essentially a bridge between beginner-friendly laminated instruments and the fully carved instruments preferred by seasoned professionals. Perfect for advancing students as well as many professional settings, hybrid models retain some of the durability of laminated basses while adding more of the resonance and full-bodied tone associated with fully carved instruments.
• Fully Carved: A fully carved double bass is the choice of professional musicians, especially orchestral musicians who play with a bow. These instruments typically feature a top carved from well-aged spruce and a back and sides carved from maple. The result is a sound of optimal depth, complexity, clarity, projection and resonance.

Shop Double Basses at Music & Arts

Explore our collection of double basses for sale, with options for every level and playing style. Shop online for fast, free delivery.

Double Bass Buying FAQs

What size double bass do I need?

The most common double bass size for adult musicians is 3/4. Smaller-sized basses are available from many manufacturers, and present an ideal solution for younger learners and adults in need of a more compact instrument. Music & Arts also offers basses for rent in various sizes — especially helpful for growing student musicians who need to upsize their instrument

For guidance in finding the perfect bass for you, see the sizing information in our Sizing Guide and on our Bass Rental Page.

What's the difference between a bass and double bass?

The phrase “double bass” originated hundreds of years ago and refers to the instrument's early orchestral function of reinforcing lower lines — most notably the cello — by sounding them an octave lower. In most contexts, the terms “double bass” and “bass” refer to the same instrument, unless “bass” is being used to signify the electric bass guitar, which is common in popular music.

Is it hard to learn to play the double bass?

The double bass can be a physically demanding instrument, requiring considerable finger strength to fret and pluck. The bass also requires confident, precise technique to achieve a solid, well-intonated sound. Some players are intimidated by the size of the double bass as well, though it's important to note that basses for purchase and rent at Music & Arts are available in several accommodating sizes.

That said, musicians of all ages, statures and skill levels fall in love with the double bass. The bass anchors a wide range of ensembles, providing the harmonic and rhythmic framework and outlining the song form. This ability to shape (and even direct) the overall sound of an ensemble is thrilling for many musicians.

Can I rent a double bass from Music & Arts?

Of course! We rent high-quality basses in various sizes, perfect for growing students or working musicians who need a second instrument. Music & Arts is the nation's #1 rental choice, offering budget-friendly pricing, flexible terms and expert repair support at hundreds of locations coast to coast. Plus, shipping is free to your home, school or local store. Rent online in minutes.

Can I take double bass lessons at Music & Arts?

Absolutely. Music & Arts is the nation's leading music lessons program, offering personalized double bass instruction at 250+ neighborhood stores. Whether you want to excel in your school orchestra or become a jazz master, Music & Arts has the perfect teacher for you. To get started, visit our Lessons page.

How should I care for and maintain my double bass?

For more detailed information on how to maintain a double bass, see our String Instrument Care Guide.

What does an “outfit” mean when shopping for a double bass?

If you purchase a double bass as part of an “outfit” package, you'll likely receive a padded bag and bow along with the instrument.

If your purchase includes the instrument only, you'll need to pick up a selection of core accessories as well. These items include a bow, special bass rosin and a bag or case, in addition to products essential for any musician: a music stand, a tuner and metronome, and more. Double bass strings are highly durable and only need to be replaced every year or so — although that timeframe depends on many variables, including style of play and how often a musician practices.

Does Music & Arts offer financing or payment plans for double basses?

Yes! Music & Arts offers generous financing options on double bass purchases, so you can start playing today and pay on a schedule that fits your life and budget. To learn more, visit our Financing page.