Q: Does the Folding Bass have a warranty?
A: Yes, the bass is warranted against defects in workmanship for 1 year. Return it to me and I will repair or replace any part found defective for free. In addition, if you buy a folding bass, and are dissatisfied with it for any reason, it can be returned within 7 days for a full refund of the purchase price.
Q: Are other models available?
A: At this time, the oil varnish 3/4 bass is the only model. I can special order blond basses and left handed models, but it would require a couple of months lead time.
Q: Can I get the Folding Bass with a carved top?
A: I have a carved top version that is available. It can take a little longer to get, and is an additional $300.
Q: Does the Folding Bass have a sound post?
A: Yes, and it rests freely between the top and back, as in standard basses. The sound post is optimally positioned, and two small pins ensure that it stays in position during travel.
Q: Can you use any strings with the Folding Bass?
A: Yes, though I have found that some brands last longer than others. Thomastik Spirocore are what I recommend. Any string will work, but these can last for years and tune up quickly. There are folding bass users that are happy with their Helicore, Nylon tape, Nils, Guts, Pirastro, Flexicore, Rotosound, etc.
Q: How would I get normal repairs or adjustments should they became necessary?
A: Except for the neck joint, fingerboard attachment and the back door, the bass is a standard acoustic bass. Your local luthier could work on it like any other bass.
Q: What are the dimensions of the fiberglass case?
A: It is shaped like the bass body and arched, so it’s difficult to measure. At the longest points, the length is 46″, width 28″, and the depth 11″.
Q: Does it come with a pickup?
A: I don’t include a standard pickup because I think that pickups are a personal choice. My favorite all-around pickup is the Fishman Full Circle. If you wish, I can install any commercially available pickup for you.
Q: How well does it stay in tune?
A: I tune mine to pitch, then give the strings a little tug and tune again. After that, the strings drift about as much as they normally would while playing.
Q: Does it have an adjustable bridge?
A: Yes, it has hard-wood wheels.
Q: What does the bass and case weigh?
A: Together, under 50lbs.
Q: Is the Folding Bass difficult to put together or take apart?
A: With a little practice, the bass can be assembled or torn down in less than 2 minutes.
Q: Is the bass loud enough to use unamplified?
A: The short answer is yes. Your playing style, choice of strings and action effect the volume in strictly acoustic settings. It is as loud as any average plywood bass.
Q: How is it different than other travel basses?
A: The most important difference is the sound chamber. The Folding Bass has a standard sized body, all the other travel basses have sound chambers that are down-sized or non-existent. The sound chamber not only produces the sound, but affects the way the string responds. It makes the bass feel right to the player, and look right to the audience. This is why I designed my travel bass. I couldn’t find one that looked, felt and sounded like a regular bass.
Q: How much does the Chadwick Folding Bass cost?
A: The bass,completely set up to your specifications, your choice of strings, and fiberglass case is $3899. Shipping is free to addresses in the 48 contiguous United States.
Q: How do I buy one?
A: Email me from the contact page on this website and let me know you want one. I’ll answer any questions you may have, and let you know when the next bass will be available. If you decide to get one, we’ll discuss your setup and string preferences, and arrange to get a deposit to hold your bass.
Q: What are the typical shipping costs?
A: Shipping to addresses in the 48 contiguous United States is included in the purchase price. For shipping outside the 48 states, send me your postal code and I will let you know how much shipping will be, and any taxes/duties that may apply.
Q: Is this instrument suitable for orchestral music?
A: This bass bows beautifully, and is suitable for any style of music