Approximation for Double Bass Recording Dimensions & Parameters

Fig 2.1: Approximate dimensions of the double bass

as needed to guide the acoustical shell's form.

In order to begin to understand what the form of the acoustical shell should take on, I need to know the approximate size of the double bass. According to The Facts on File Dictionary of Music by Christine Ammer, the double bass is the largest and lowest-pitched string instrument of the violin family. Because the dimensions of the double bass range in size, only approximations are needed for the establishing a sense of scale to the acoustical shell in relation to its performer. The approximate full height is 6'-0". Respectively, the widest part of the bass' body is approximately 2'-4" with a depth, including the bridge of around 1'-6".   It can be played by standing up or by sitting on a stool.

Fig. 2.2 Parameters for the bassist and the double bass allow for

comfort and care while recording in the acoustical shell.  

Since the instrument cannot play music without a performer, those parameters were considered as well. In order to give the bassist and the upright bass space to perform for recording purposes with reasonable comfort and care, I erred on the side caution by establishing a 5'-0" minimum diameter and a 7'-0" maximum height parameters for the core of the shell. This means that whatever this acoustical shell takes form of, it will not be smaller than the diameter and not taller than the height given. Along with these parameters, I must also taken into consideration for allowing the performer to get in and out of the acoustical shell without injuring himself, damaging the instrument, and the shell itself.