Bass Gear Review

Reviewer	Sneed
Manufacturer	Epiphone
Model	Viola Bass
Price	$500-$600 (list @ $800)

Dimensions	small body

	Hollow-body electric bass with a solid brace in the cavity. The wood
	that is used for this instrument is very nice. This bass is
	constructed very well, and it is obvious that a lot of care went into
	it. It has a 30" neck, which our guitar player thinks is really cool.
	in fact, this might be a good bass for the guitarist who needs to
	cover bass for a few songs.

This is the third violin bass that I've owned. I had a Hofner in the early 70's, but couldn't keep it under control (mondo-feedback). I had an Apollo (spud-head) in the mid-80's, and it was nice enough, but sounded pretty thin.

I've always liked the violin shape, and I especially like the lightweight construction of the Epiphone Viola Bass. There is a wide range of tones, and it produces a very fine low end (which is where I live!).

This is not a high tech instrument...but you won't have to constantly fight the controls.

The one complaint that I have is the rigid shape of the body. Other instruments that I own have rounded edges which are a little more comfortable. One the positive side, your shoulder will thank you when you work 3 or 4 nights in a row. This instrument is quite a value, especially when compared to "vintage" instruments of the same style. In fact, I'm so impressed with the construction and value, I'm considering Epiphone for a "P" copy. Will someone provide us with a review?

Construction	98%
Size/Bulkiness	95%
Usefulness	90%
Value	95%
Overall	95%