Czech-Ease FAQ

Question:

What is the string length?

Answer:

The CE string length is between 41" and 41.75", a typical professional-size bass string length.

Question:

Is the CE played differently than other upright basses?

Answer:

No. The CE was designed to differ as little as possible from the standard upright, which players spend years learning to play. Hence, none of the parts of the bass that the player's body touches are different; the bottom bout is abbreviated and the saddle is raised to accommodate the appropriate angle of the strings over the bridge, but none of this changes the playing experience.

Question:

Will I be charged for oversize/overweight on an airplane?   

Answer:

The CE flight package (bass, cover, flight trunk) weighs 55lbs. With most airlines' baggage weight limit at 50 lbs. the CE package surpasses them and is subject to overage fees, but in practice the amount and frequency of such fees actually assessed is low. The weight can be reduced to 50lbs. by removing the scroll and gig bag and transporting them elsewhere (personal luggage, carry-on, etc.)

Question:

Can I bow The CE?

Answer:

Yes, though since it is a plywood bass you might think twice about using it at that orchestra audition you went to grad school for.

Question: Does The CE have an acoustic sound?
Answer: Yes. The common reaction from prospective buyers at our NYC shop is surprise at how loud it actually is. Though most players use our Realist pickup and amplify it, we have had reports from the road of successful use in unamplified settings.

Question:

Does The CE use special strings?

Answer:

No, because the CE's setup is practically identical to a standard bass. Any type of string one might use on an upright of standard proportion is suitable for the CE, from gut and orchestral strings to the brightest pizzicato strings.

Question:

Do I need to use The Realist with The CE

Answer:

Most CE players do use the Realist, but the bass' tone is excellent and sounds great through any quality instrument microphone or pickup system. It's as loud as the average upright bass, and can be played unamplified too.