Vintage Upright Basses and Used Double Basses at Upton Bass

New Arnold Schnitzer Milanese Model Double Bass — No. 63

Mattias — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 20:45:21 +0000

We are pleased to offer Arnold Schnitzer’s No. 63, a newly made double bass and a superb example of his Milanese model – in our opinion, his finest work to date, now available at our shop in Mystic, Connecticut.

This double bass is fitted with a beautifully made C extension with smooth, reliable gates. The instrument is finished in a light oil antiqued varnish with subtle color variation and hand-applied aging throughout the top, ribs, and back, giving it the appearance, and feel, of a well played-in instrument from the moment it is picked up. The beautiful wood choices, and innovative details like the adjustable saddle reflect Schnitzer’s approach throughout.
Despite having just arrived, the bass already feels remarkably played in. According to bassist Alex Svensen, who spent time with the instrument in the shop, it has a rich, complex sound with a surprising amount of depth and “belly” for a new bass. Under the bow, the response is immediate and confident, with notes that speak easily across the entire register. The sound is both punchy and buttery, with a strong sense of clarity and projection that makes it especially compelling for classical playing.

At the same time, the bass offers a full, satisfying pizzicato, pointing to its potential as an excellent jazz instrument. Both tonally and physically, this is a bass that invites playing and promises continued growth in the hands of a committed musician.
For players seeking a top-tier contemporary handmade bass without the wait of a new commission, this is a rare opportunity.

Czechoslovakian Double Bass Herold Jaeger

Mattias — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 20:35:31 +0000

We’re excited to offer this Herold Jaeger bass from 1934, made in Czechoslovakia. A good solid maple instrument with character.
This bass has been scraped and re-varnished with a spirit varnish, giving it a healthy finish.

It shows some minor quirks from previous work—particularly in the neck—but it’s set up well and plays reliably. The fingerboard and bridge are in decent condition; we’ll dress the board and bridge for a smooth playing experience.

String length: 42″ with around 7/8 size.
Back length: 44″
Tuners: Nickel-plated Rubner, fully functional

There is an open seam to glue, and some minor cracks, but the bass is overall healthy and stable. It needs a setup and new strings, but it offers a jazz-friendly tone that’s warmer and rounder than many German basses of a similar era. With a little tweaking, such as a new board, bridge, and strings—it can perform beautifully in jazz, orchestra, or any ensemble setting.

This is a versatile and playable instrument that’s manageable in size, making it suitable for players of various heights. Its Czechoslovakian 1930s construction adds historical charm, and its tone and character make it a solid choice for musicians looking for something affordable but special.

Albert Jakstadt Double Bass 1995

Mattias — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:37:31 +0000

A remarkably healthy and beautifully built orchestral bass from Albert Jakstadt, number 29, completed in 1995 in Cincinnati, Ohio. This instrument shows the thoughtful hand of a maker who clearly knew his materials and design. Two piece broad-grained spruce top and big-leaf maple back and sides and an X-braced flat back.

This bass is in excellent structural shape — no soundpost or saddle cracks, no surprises in the back, just authentic wear from being loved and used. The back and ribs are beautifully figured, with strong flame contrasting the grain. Bumpers are installed, and the Sloane tuners carry a handsome, aged patina that matches the instrument’s character.

This a generous three-quarter (borderline seven-eighths) size:
String length: just under 42 inches
Back length: 45 inches
Upper bouts: 20 inches
C-bouts: 15.5 inches
Lower bouts: 28 inches

This is a warm, orchestral-voiced instrument with a broad, open tone, reminiscent of Abraham Prescott and Don Gorman basses we’ve featured. With Spirocore Weichs currently on, the sound is round and responsive, with a big low E and a singing G. It’s very playable under the bow, with smooth access across all registers thanks to well-placed C-bouts and a clean neck heel.
A conservatory-level or semi-professional player will find plenty to love here. Deep, cushiony orchestral presence.

The current setup is solid but could be tailored to taste. A new bridge, nut, and endpin would modernize the feel. For jazz players, a fresh set of Spirocores and a “wetter” fingerboard dressing would bring out more growl and flexibility; for orchestral use, Belcantos would add richness and depth.

Albert Jakstadt was part of the small circle of independent American makers in the 1990s who drew from European traditions to build serious, professional-grade basses. His early-period basses from this decade — like this 1995 example — are particularly sought after for their combination of thoughtful design, stable construction, and musical warmth.

Upton Bass Klotz Double Bass

Mattias — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 03:14:56 +0000

This 2020 Upton Klotz Model Hybrid is a rare find, built as a custom “Gentleman Jazz Bass” and cared for meticulously by its first owner. Designed with amplified performance in mind, it delivers speed, playability, and tone fidelity that makes it a favorite for gigging jazz bassists.
The bass features a custom C-extension, rosewood tuners, and a striking flamed maple neck. The hand-scraped spruce top and durable hybrid construction with flamed maple laminate give it both strength and character. With a 40.5-inch string length and a slim, dainty neck, it is remarkably easy to play, almost as effortless as an electric bass.

This is not the bass to fill a symphony hall or anchor a section—it is built to be a responsive, expressive, amplified gig bass. Currently fitted with Spirocores, it has a brighter edge, though it can adapt beautifully to different string voices. Paired with the Realist Lifeline pickup, it shines in amplified settings with clarity and fidelity rivaling even the Full Circle or Rev Solo.

Built in 2020, this bass has had five years of excellent care and remains in outstanding condition. It is one of only a handful of these custom Klotz hybrids we have ever made. Offered at $12,500, including the $3,000 C-extension and custom upgrades, it is an ideal choice for the working jazz bassist who wants a fast, responsive, and easy-playing double bass.
Come play it, plug it in, and see if it’s your voice.

Johannes Rubner Double Bass

Mattias — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 13:35:35 +0000

This 2008 Johannes Rubner “Master Art” double bass has been Gary Upton’s personal instrument for the past several years. Built in Markneukirchen, Germany, it carries all the hallmarks of Rubner’s higher-end work: solid carved tonewoods, striking flaming on the neck, and a beautifully shaded varnish with tasteful antiquing.
Gary has enjoyed this bass extensively, calling it “fabulous…a great jazz sound” with a full, responsive voice that performs beautifully in a variety of conditions. The instrument has seen real playing life—well-loved and naturally worn in—but remains healthy, stable, and always consistent.
On the larger side of a ¾, edging toward ⅞ in feel, this Rubner has lots of presence and projection without losing playability. Its tone has been a reliable companion through every environment, from humid summers to dry winters.
This bass carries a unique story. It came into Gary’s hands during the uncertainty of COVID, helping a client in a difficult situation. Out of that circumstance, it became his main player for a while. Now, he is ready to pass it on.
Gary asks that its next caretaker treat it with the same respect, and should life’s circumstances change, he’d like to see it find its way back home to Upton Bass.

Donald Gorman Double Bass, 2007

Mattias — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 16:24:31 +0000

This 2007 double bass by Canadian maker Donald Gorman combines beautiful craftsmanship with a commanding presence under the bow. It features a C-extension, Sloane tuners, and a Fishman Full Circle pickup. It’s a flatback instrument made with beautiful flamed maple back and sides. The instrument is large, with a 42-inch playable string length and a 47-inch back, but its smaller shoulders make it much more approachable than its size suggests. Standing or sitting, the playability is excellent. The weight is 24.5 lbs.

Tonally, this bass delivers a pillowy Prescott-inspired sound — a big, warm, and resonant voice with plenty of depth. It has already passed through its “pubescent years” and speaks with maturity and power, making it a superb option for a professional player.

Offered at $20,000, this is a tremendous value for a hand-built maker’s instrument in excellent condition. The cost of the extension and Sloane tuners alone makes it a great deal. Whether you’re seeking an orchestral section sound or a versatile jazz setup, we can tailor the adjustment to suit your needs.

Get in touch at sales@uptonbass.com or 860 535 9399 and come try it!

Bohemian Mid 1800s Double Bass

Mattias — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 19:32:45 +0000

This mid-19th century double bass carries the hallmarks of the Klotz/Mittenwald school, with classic curlicue f-holes, a flat back, and rich, clear tone. Though its original top was replaced about 10–15 years ago, the bass retains its original back and ribs, and features a German neck, likely from the 1950s, with Juzek-style scroll and nickel tuners.

The instrument speaks well and has a great bottom end – ideal for jazz players or anyone drawn to that classic old-world sound. The top could be further refined, or we could replace the top with the original. We have it, and it can be restored if you prefer. We can customize the string length and make other adjustments (within reason) to suit you.

Specs:
– String length: 42″
– Back length: 43″
– Flat back, gamba corners.
– Replacement top (original available)
– German neck, ca. 1950s

Price is expected to be in the $15,000 range, but the final number will be determined depending on the restoration path.

Luciano Golia Double Bass

Mattias — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 15:54:05 +0000

This Luciano Golia “L’Arcigno” from 2004 double bass has returned to the shop. It has Golia’s trademark hourglass shape and rich reddish varnish. Very deep ribbed and stout, but still with a comfortable feel. The neck is chunky, great for the right player, but can also easily be reshaped to your liking. A great bass in wonderful condition.

Measurements:
Upper Bout: 18.5″
C Bout: 12″
Lower Bout: 25.25″
Rib Depth: 7.5 – 9.5″
Length of Back: 45″
String Length: 41.5″
Weight: 21 lbs
Neck: D

Please note: Shipping for double basses must be quoted individually. If you check out through the website, USPS or UPS may auto-calculate a rate, but neither carrier handles double bass shipments—so these quotes are not valid. For an accurate shipping estimate, please contact us at sales@uptonbass.com or 860 535 9399. We’re happy to help you with all the details before or after your purchase.

Classic 1950s-60s Juzek

Mattias — Sat, 17 May 2025 20:13:14 +0000

This is a quintessential example of a mid-century Juzek. It's likely Wilfer-made, and has the common Fleur de Lis on the back. It features a great wood choice and that vintage character people love, especially when they’re a little road-worn. What Gary has noticed is how players seem to love these instruments even more when they show the scars of time. This bass lived in a school closet for decades, and it carries that history with pride. It’s a nice medium-sized ¾ bass, very playable with a 41.5 inch string length. Round maple back, maple ribs, and a spruce top. Despite the cosmetic wear, it’s healthy, well set up, and ready to serve for many more years. Over time, you can personalize it further. eventually, it might benefit from a new fingerboard, but the ebony one on it now is solid and serviceable. It’s an ideal student instrument or could be tricked out for jazz with a big ebony board and setup tweaks. A dependable, great-sounding bass.

American Bass (Possibly Prescott or Prescott School)

Mattias — Thu, 08 May 2025 16:42:29 +0000

An intriguing American-made bass with a unique scroll, likely from the Prescott school or possibly a true Abraham Prescott. In need of full restoration, but once completed, it will command attention in both tone and aesthetic. This will be positioned at the $40K price point, reflecting its pedigree and restoration effort. If you buy this unique double bass, we will work with your input through the restoration process, to truly make it your instrument.