Albert Jakstadt Double Bass 1995

Description

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.