How much does a double bass cost? What's the difference?

Double basses come in all shapes, sizes, colors and prices. But how do you really know what to buy within your budget price range? This guide will take you through the standards for double basses in each price range, giving you a good starting point in finding the best double bass for you. Every double bass is different, and it's best to look for the best value for money within your budget.

If you're new to double bass, we have lots of resources to help you get started, right here on our blog. We recommend you read our size guide to see which size is best for you. We carry double basses in all different sizes and prices to ensure you find the perfect fit.

If you're not sure if you're ready to buy, why not try out a rental double bass before committing to a purchase? At XY Double Bass we also offer competitively priced short and long term double bass rentals. Find out more about our double basses for hire here.

$1500-$3000yuan's violin

These instruments are a great way to start your musical journey (especially if purchased from a reputable music store!) At this price, you are looking at an entry-level or entry-level instrument, usually made in a Chinese factory made. The basic construction of these basses will do just fine, but they come "out of the box" without any adjustments. You should expect most instruments in this price range to be constructed from a combination of laminates, composite boards, and solid woods such as maple. These materials keep the price reasonable but still provide a warm, open tone. At the higher end of this price range, you should look for an instrument that uses mostly solid woods like spruce and maple, which will give the instrument a more mature, resonant tone. You should look for consistency in texture, which helps produce a clearer tone. Professional setup services are required to get the sound and feel just right. Learn more about why your string instrument setup is so important.

At XY Double Bass, we undergo a rigorous quality assurance process, and each of our double basses is not only handcrafted, but also hand inspected before reaching its new owner's hands. With quality you can see, hear and feel, and a perfect balance of quality, quality and performance, our double basses are timeless and designed to last a lifetime. So whether your budget is $1,500 or $6,000, we're guaranteed to find your perfect match.

At XY Violins, we provide professional installation services for all instruments at no extra charge. We also have an on-site studio where you can book your new double bass to be worked on by a professional luthier. No matter where your double bass was originally purchased, we welcome set-ups and repairs.

For an instrument in this price range, the inclusion or upgrade of individual parts is also important.

Bridge and Soundposts – These parts of a double bass must be included as they are vital to creating the sound. If they are installed correctly, you will get a clear tone from your instrument.

Strings – Strings should be included with any double bass purchase, but we recommend upgrading the strings on entry-level double basses to complement the instrument’s deficiencies and give it a better tone.

Bow – Not all accessories are created equal quality, and since a bow is a must for playing double bass, make sure your new double bass comes with a wood or carbon graphite bow, which will help you create Better sound.

Case – A basic soft case should be included in a beginner’s double bass gear.

Shop for beginner double basses online and in-store.

$3000-$5000 yuan violin

When you get into this price range, there's a shift in quality. A double bass in this price range should be made with only tonewood, not a combination of laminate and tonewood. Therefore, you should expect a shift in sound quality and resonance. These double basses are hand finished and use higher quality fittings which further enhances the quality of the instrument. The combination of workmanship and accessories makes the sound of these instruments rounder, louder and more vibrant.

Instruments in this price range are suitable for beginners and intermediate players. If you're an adult beginner, a double bass of this caliber will reward your playing (and ears!) for years to come.

To be careful of

  • Upgraded Strings – Most double basses in this price range will include upgraded strings, which will help improve the sound of the instrument.
  • Upgraded Bow – Some mid-level double basses in this price range will include a higher quality bow to match the instrument.
  • Bridge – A higher quality bridge – at least an Aubert or Despiau 1-tree or above.
  • Shop for Intermediate Double Bass online and in-store.

$5000-$8000 yuan violin

From here on, you should expect to see a higher level of craftsmanship and expertise in crafting the instrument. All double basses in this price range are expected to be handcrafted, with finer details and, overall, more refinement.

Making these double basses required the use of higher grades of wood, requiring more highly skilled labor, resulting in a higher quality workmanship. You should look for a tighter consistency of texture throughout the instrument, which contributes to the instrument's timbre.

You should look for a very even grain on the top plate of the instrument. Grain is the natural arrangement of fibers in wood, which can produce more visual beauty and can also improve the tone and resonance of an instrument. Not only do you want to check the texture on the top plate, but also the flame texture on the back plate.

Varnish is another consideration in this price range – many of today’s modern instruments are antiqued with varnish. Care is taken to ensure that the varnish is of high quality and is not inconsistent anywhere.

In this price range, you generally have to buy the bow and case separately. Generally speaking, you'll have your own preferences for bows and cases, but you can always ask our friendly team of passionate musicians for recommendations. Browse our range of double bass bows online or in-store today.

Shop for premium double basses online and in-store.

Violins over 8,000 yuan

From here on, you should expect to see a higher level of craftsmanship and expertise go into the making of the instrument. Double basses in this price range will use aged woods, which will add to the resonance and liveliness of the instrument. When choosing a double bass in this price range, you should expect to see professional accessories – an upgraded bridge, professional strings, an upgraded tailpiece, and a high-quality machine head. You should also consider adding an extended E string to a double bass of this caliber to aid in your orchestral playing.

A stringed instrument is an investment – an investment in your craft, in your creativity, and in your passion. So we know that whether you're learning for the first time, a lifelong enthusiast, an amateur or a professional, we want to make sure you find the perfect instrument. At XY Double Bass, we back every double bass we sell with a Happiness Guarantee – free returns within 30 days of purchase. No questions asked. There are no fees to pay. Why? Because finding the right instrument is a bit like finding your soul mate – it may take some time, but when you find that person, life is never the same.

Of course, choosing a double bass that suits you and your performance needs isn't necessarily a decision you make alone. At XY Double Bass, our friendly team is made up entirely of musicians who understand the nuances of each of the different double basses we offer. We can personally guide you through our range, demo a double bass for you, and help you find your perfect match. Whether it's by phone, email, or in person, we'd love to hear from you. At XY Fiddles we offer flexible payment options such as ZipMoney and Afterpay, so you can pay for your investment interest-free*.

Contact us today to start your double bass journey.

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