I first fell in love with the Eminence electric upright bass (EUB) at the January 1999 NAMM show. After I started to play it, I didn't want to stop. As a bassist who started on double bass, I still gravitate to an instrument that feels familiar to my hands and ears, and the Eminence bass really fit the bill. And it is a gorgeous instrument with an obvious vibe that connects it to its larger brethren.
What's the difference between it and others?? First, you can see that this is an actual acoustic instrument, complete with sound post and bass bar, just like a full size bass. This is not an instrument that needs to be plugged in for practice.
I bought an Eminence RN4 model for my own gigging pleasure, I don't just sell these, I gig mine. Please let me know if you have any specific questions about them, I can answer your inquiries from experience; that's my personal Eminence bass in the photo one the right and in some of the photos below.
The Eminence bass is available in two forms, the standard fixed-neck instrument, and the one with a removable neck that allows you to transport the bass in a shorter container. Here are some details that apply to both:
Fully acoustic body delivers real acoustic sound.
Small body size allows the Eminence bass to fit into any conventional car, and the removable neck model can really make it into tight quarters.
Standard-size neck and scale length for familiar feel and playing ease.
Special design padded gig bag included with purchase; both basses come with a full size heavily padded bag with the usual pockets and handles. The removable neck model also includes a neck bag, so when you take it apart there are two bags that will cushion it within whatever hard case or other transport item you use.
Specifications:
Neck:
Rock Maple
Fingerboard:
Ebony
Vibrating String Length:
41-1/4 inches
Top:
Arched, Laminated Spruce
Back:
Arched, Laminated Curly Maple
Air Chamber Depth:
3 inches
Body Size:
10½ x 31½ inches
Bass bar:
Solid Spruce
Sound post:
Solid Spruce
Bridge:
Maple, Fully Adjustable
Strings:
D’Addario Helicore Hybrid Strings
Pickup:
Realist, specifically modified for this instrument
Tailplate:
Solid Brass
Endpin:
Fully Adjustable with Steady-foot™ Anti-rotational
Endpin Foot (see photo below)
Total Length:
63 inches
Weight:
Fixed Neck - 13 lbs., Removable Neck - 14 lbs.
Warranty:
Two-year limited warranty
I've had some inquiries about neck sizes, and offer the following approximate measurements I've taken of the four and five string basses:
string spread at bridge measured beneath string curve, G to bottom string
3 3/16 inches
3 1/2 inches
Pricing:
4 string Fixed Neck
List:$3250 Sale: $2600
4 string Removable Neck
List:$3706 Sale: $2964.80
5 string Fixed Neck
List:$3536 Sale: $2828.80
5 string Removable Neck
List:$3992 Sale: $3193.60
Contact us for accessories and shipping information
The Eminence RN Portable Upright Bass with its detachable neck may fit in some airplane overheads or in baggage check without incurring oversize charges. The bass with flight case (too large for overheads IMHO) weighs only 37 pounds! The steel dovetail neck joint is guaranteed forever. Because the strings attach at the tailplate, it takes only 10 minutes to set up and 5 minutes to break down. Here's a video of the process:
Flight Case (for removable neck model): $120.00 list
Stand (also available for purchase separately)
I'm also available to answer your specific questions about the bass or accessories - I don't just sell the Eminence basses, I play one too (that's my own gigging RN4 model in the photo above!)
Click on any of these shots to view it full-size:
Full shot of bass on stand
Looking down the front
Shot of back on optional stand
Back of neck/headstock
Closeup of bridge/pickup
I've gotten questions about the stability of the neck joint of the removable neck bass models. I took mine apart and took this photo. Yes, that's a metal dovetail joint.
Five String Portable Bass available
Removable Body Brace can be adjusted to taste; this photo is a bit bright due to the flash
The special endpin foot lets the bass comfortably move with you from side to side, but keeps the bass stable.
The Eminence Bass Stand is available separately for current Eminence owners. It is identical to the standard Hamilton Bass Stand, but it has a special receiver at the base designed to accept the unique T-shaped Eminence endpin. The stand is shown in the photos above. The Ingles Stand will also handle the Eminence EUB, but the custom Eminence stand is far more compact, though not as secure.
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Here is what some of our customers think about this product:
I ordered the AI Contra sight unseen, and based my buying decision on word of mouth. It knocked my socks off, much better sound than I expected with my Eminence. And the shipping to Edmonton, Canada was FAST. Seemed like I just pressed the "buy" button and the doorbell was ringing. When I need equipment for my basses, Bob's got first crack at my business. Can't wait to see the bass case I just ordered. I 'spose I could of found one locally, but that didn't even cross my mind. Bob's the guy!
—Ken
Dear Bob,
Whoopee! The Eminence upright electric amplifiable bass is absolutely wonderful! I am having a ball. My husband laughs a lot, especially at the baby violin bow....but it is a start for the experience.
Thank you for all of your help and guidance. You are right. It is wonderful.
Again, many, many thanks. Prompt service, helpful advice, splendid instrument! Use any of this for a testimonial that you may wish.