Sebastian By Knilling 1202TO 3/4 Upright Bass - Factory Adjusted - With Bag & Bow

The Sebastian by Knilling 1202TO 3/4 upright bass is a student-level to advancing-player instrument that offers a solid combination of quality components and a full professional setup. This model is often sold as an "outfit," meaning it comes as a complete package with a bow and a bag, making it an excellent value for a new player.

Here is a detailed breakdown of its key features:

Core Concept & Construction

• 3/4 Size: This is the most common and versatile size for upright basses. It's a standard for adult players, providing a full-bodied sound while still being manageable for most players.

• Hybrid or Solid Top Construction: The "1202" model number indicates a hybrid construction, featuring a solid carved spruce top and laminated maple back and sides. The solid top is a significant upgrade from a fully laminated instrument (like the Knilling 1200 model), as it allows the bass to resonate more freely, producing a richer, more complex, and more articulate tone. The laminated back and sides provide durability and resistance to changes in temperature and humidity, which is great for student players or gigging musicians.

• Knilling String Shop Adjustment: This is a crucial feature that sets the instrument apart from many other basses in this price range. A "factory adjusted" bass has undergone a professional setup in the USA, ensuring that the bridge is properly shaped, the nut is cut correctly, and the instrument is ready to play right out of the box. This is essential for playability and sound.

• Tonewoods and Finish: The bass is made from seasoned tonewoods with an attractive and durable finish, often a nitrocellulose lacquer. It features a Stradivari shape, a classic and versatile body style.

Components & Outfit

• Quality Fittings: The bass is fitted with quality ebony for the fingerboard, nut, and saddle. Ebony is a hard and durable wood that is excellent for these parts, as it resists wear from the strings and provides a smooth playing surface.

• Strings: It typically comes equipped with D'Addario Helicore Orchestral strings, which are a popular choice known for their warmth, clear tone, and good response to both pizzicato and arco (bowed) playing.

• Included Accessories (Outfit):

  • Deluxe Padded Bag: A high-quality padded bag is included to protect the instrument during transport.

  • Brazilwood French Bow: A Brazilwood bow with genuine horsehair is included. Brazilwood is a durable and reliable material for student bows.

  • Accessories: The outfit also commonly includes rosin.

Overall Impression

The Sebastian by Knilling 1202TO 3/4 upright bass is a popular and well-regarded choice for:

• Advancing Students: The hybrid construction and professional setup make it a step up from a basic student bass, providing a better playing experience and a more refined sound.

• Players on a Budget: It offers the benefits of a solid top without the higher cost of a fully carved instrument.

• Anyone looking for a complete package: The included bag and bow make it an all-in-one solution that's ready to play right out of the box, with the added confidence of a professional setup.