Best Bass Bows for Beginners

If you’re looking for a bass that can hold its own in the mix, then a top-notch bass bow is an essential tool in your musical kit. Whether you want to play pop, rock, or blues, a good bass is essential to the music you wish to create. Bass bows are generally quite short, so they can fit in well with a wide range of musical instruments. In fact, they are used by individuals of all ages and musical styles to produce a warm, rich tone that is distinct and distinct enough to stand out. In this article, we explore what a useful bass bow can do and what you should expect to pay for one. We also offer some of our own bass bows, and share some tips and tricks that will make your experience as easy as possible.

What are some tips for finding the right bass bow?

If you are aiming for a professional look, you don’t need to spend a lot on a bass bow. You could find a good beginner model for around $100 to $150. However, a poorly made bass bow is likely to break more easily and won‘t have the longevity you need. A quality bass bow will be made from a material that is both durable and easy to maintain. The bow should be of a type that won't damage the action of your bass or violin. "If your bass isn't able to produce a full sound, it's probably not a quality bow,‟ said Tommy, a bass bow expert.

What should I consider when buying a bass bow?

A quality bass bow is essential to the correct performance. You can get an inexpensive model or one that looks like it came straight out of a thrift store, but if you want it to last, you'll need to spend some money. Though they may look similar at first, there are actually quite a few differences that set some bows apart from others. In this article, we’ll discuss the various features and other considerations you should take into account when purchasing a bass. Your specific needs will likely vary, so if your intentions are to achieve consistent results, it's worth trying out a number of bows before settling on a favorite. The material with which a bow was made determines its sound quality and durability. This isn't as big a factor as it is with a nylon string bass, since nylon is much more durable overall. However, if durability is a primary concern, a wood or maple bow will be more appropriate. A quality bowstring should be comfortable, and the tension should allow the bow to remain in tune. Some bass bows feature a simple molded-in bow loop. Others feature adjustable tension, allowing you to easily adjust the length of the loop to your preferences. Both options are handy, especially when trying to string a particular bass to a specific sound. While not standard, some basses come with the option to adjust its finish. As mentioned, many basswood bows are black, though some are adorned with ornate designs or other colors. These are typically part of an ongoing design that will eventually change to fit your personal tastes. It‘s often possible to personalize your bass by purchasing one of these bass wood bow sets.

How expensive are bass bows?

Basic

Basic bass bows can be found for $25 to $40. These models are made of plastic, nylon, and wood. They usually feature a simple design with either a single or double bow. The best models tend to be of the heavier, more expensive wood species.

Mid-range

Mid-range bass bow prices range from $45 to around $100. In this price range, the bows feature more intricate designs that are more effective on both soft and hardwood. You’ll also see some bows that feature bigger heads and heavier necks, which can make them a bit louder. Some bow models in this range are handmade, so you can expect superior craftsmanship.

High-end

High-end bassists can pay anywhere from about $125 to well over $1,000 for a bass bow. This price tag typically covers quality materials as well as a better-quality bow that can handle tougher performances.

How do you choose your selection of bass bows?

Brand

The best brands in the world are great, but if you're just looking for something to practice on, you can find loads of great bass bows for under $30. However, if your goal is to really hone your skills, then you'll want to stick to reputable brands.

Reviews

Reviews can be crucial when you’re trying to find the best product in a category. Instead of blindly buying what you see advertised, look for customer reviews to see if a product is a good fit for you.

Price

Everyone has a different sized wallet, so it's worth looking at the price range before you go for a high-end model. It's also worth considering what type of practice you want from your bass bow – you could spend way more on a professional style bass and still get great results.

What Features Should You Look For In Bass Bows?

Material

Most bassbows are made from either wood or composite materials. Wood is obviously the traditional material for basses, and it‘s one of the most durable options available. Composite bows, on the other hand, are lighter and more flexible, which is perfect for beginners.

Size

It goes without saying that the size of your instrument is hugely important. The bigger the bass, the harder it is, meaning you have to be careful when picking out the right size for your needs. If you need a bass to practice on at home, a smaller model would probably be a better option.

Weight

Again, this is important because you don t want something that”s too heavy for its size. Check out our bass bow weight guide for more information.

Strings

While most bass woods are suitable for practicing, it might not be the ideal option if it involves heavy hitting. A good choice is nylon string, as it has excellent resonance.

Build

Bass bows are all built differently, with different styles and shapes. Pick out a model that matches the style of music you usually practice with and is easy to transport.

About Bass Bows

Bass bows are made of wood, usually maple or cherry. You can also find composite bows that are laminated with fiberglass. They may come in different finishes, such as satin or satiny black. Depending on how much you’re willing to spend, you can find bass bows in both right-handed and left- handed models. The differences in bows from one brand to the next are minimal, so we don‘t recommend that you make a decision based on which style you think looks better. With that said, most bass bow bows can be used with either hand, but some are only righthanded. If you purchase a bass that's designed for lefties, we recommend holding it and adjusting it to your left hand before using it.