BSX Bass - Allegro Acoustic
Reviewer: Jason Hollar (
http://www.cadillacjazz.com)
Amplifier Used: SWR 300w head & 2x10, Crown K1 & SWR 4x10
- Vintage: 2004
- Number of Strings: 4
- Double bass strings compatible
- Bowable: Yes
- Thumb Reference: D
- Position Markers: Yes
- Playable Seated: Yes
- Balance While Playing:
(8/10)
As a professional jazz bassist, I was looking for an instrument that had the look, feel, and sound of an upright acoustic, but that also had the punch, power, and portability of the electric bass guitar.
I chose the BSX Allegro Acoustic model with a dark violin burst on pine. It looks great and very much resembles the appearance of a traditional instrument. The balance and playability are just fine, but the "tummy rest" bout extension is still taking some getting used to.
The sound is unique and clear. The sensitive piezo pickup can sound harsh especially on modern, high-powered cabinets. I found the Bartolini preamp and three band EQ to be true and quiet, but slightly lacking in output. Even though the bass has individual string volume adjusters as well as an overall output control, I found using an external preamp with this instrument adds presence and warmth to the signal and allows the amp react more efficiently.
The bass comes with relatively low action and I chose the upgraded Spirocore strings. Although I enjoy using Weichs on my acoustic upright, I found them a little too thin, bright and somewhat "fretless" sounding on the Allegro. After putting on a heavier, broken-in set of D'addario Helicores on a few gigs, I tried a set of the Ron Carter Labella black nylon tapewounds. Although I didn't care for them initially on my acoustic upright, I think they're a great fit for the BSX EUB. I've got the action up a bit higher, and the thicker gauge nylon strings seem to produce a more acoustic-like tone when I really start to dig in.
Overall, this is a great buy. It's compact and powerful design gives it some advantage over its acoustic big brother - especially on louder gigs or in venues with difficult logistics. As well, the BSX faithfully provides the look and feel of an upright. Jazz, Swing, and other traditional styles can still be approached authentically while adding some serious modern bump and bottom end to the groove.
I still prefer playing my "real" bass on intimate, acoustic jazz gigs. It simply sounds better. However, the BSX bass has already come in quite handy and proven itself worthy on several jobs. Because I play such a diverse range of gigs I need something that is relatively portable but that still has the vibe and presence of a "Big Bass".
This instrument fits the bill and is a good blend of upright, acoustic, and electric bass technologies. Although it will never replace the real thing, it certainly makes for an intelligent substitute on certain gigs -- exactly what I was looking for.
Text copyright © Jason Hollar.
