top tips for optimising your double bass with Neal Heppleston
In this video we hear from luthier Neal Heppleston as he takes us through three essential ellements of double bass setup to help you learn how to optimise your instrument. We look at bridge positioning, soundpost positioning and string height with detailed demonstration, using my bass as a model. If you are looking to learn more about bass setup, or are interested in the process of double bass making, this video is a must-watch!
about heppleston double basses
Neal Heppleston is at the forefront of modern British double bass making, with a workshop in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, where he creates his beautifully hand-crafted, bespoke double basses for musicians around the world. After graduating from the prestigious Newark School of Violin Making, Neal has worked with musicians from orchestras that include the BBC Philharmonic, Halle, Opera North as well as numerous jazz and contemporary bassists. If you’re in the U.K. and want to try some wonderful instruments, his workshop is well worth a visit!
Follow up Question
We had a question from a viewer on the distance between the strings at the nut. Here’s Neal’s reply in case it’s helpful to others.
I like to do 33mm between the centre of the G string and the centre of the E string. Then equal measurements between the centres of the D and A.
If you enjoy this video, let us know in the comments on YouTube. We always love to hear your feedback.
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:58 Bridge Positioning
05:23 Soundpost Positioning
09:29 String height
Neal Heppleston Links:
Thank you to Castleton Mill in Leeds for providing the incredible space in which this video was filmed.
Behind the scenes PHotos
Photos © Discover Double Bass
A visit to Neal’s workshop in 2023
Last year, we went down to the Heppleston Double Basses workshop to have a look around. Here are some of the photos from our trip.
More from our interview series
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