New Shen SB200 Willow gamba roundback bass

This instrument uses the same form as the popular flat back willow 3/4 bass,  but has a rounded carved back.  Note:  the ribs on all the willow basses from Shen are laminated now.  These days many fine instrument makers use this technique – it helps to keep flatsawn sides from warping and splitting while still allowing the use of thinner wood.

Some dimensions:

• lower bout width 25″
• upper bout width 20″
• rib depth lower block 8 1/4″ tapering to 6 1/4 at the upper block
• length of back 44 3/4″
• string length 41 5/8

Like it’s flat back cousin these instruments have a nice manageable size, sound great and offer a lot of bass for the money.  The setup includes a Despiau bridge, Ullsperger 10mm endpin, and Pirastro Evah Pirazzi weich strings.