Franz Hoffmann® Prelude Double Bass Deluxe Outfit

1-Year Limited Warranty
This item comes with Shar's 1 year warranty covering defects of workmanship or materials. General wear and tear or mis-use are not covered. Non-transferable.

30-Day No Hassle Return Policy
If you are not satisfied with this item for any reason, you may return it for a full refund within 30 days of purchase.

If you have any questions about this product's warranty or to make a return, please contact our Customer Service Department at 800.793.4334 or email us at cc@sharmusic.com.

Highlighter temporarily unavailable — store credit included.

FAQ

Q: What size double bass does my child need?
A: Double bass sizing is best determined by the player’s left-hand span, overall height, and standing playing comfort rather than age alone. Measure from the tip of the index finger to the tip of the pinky with the hand naturally extended. When between sizes, choosing the smaller bass generally makes early technique and posture more comfortable. Generally: 3/4 (ages 13+), 1/2 (ages 9-13), and 1/4 (ages 7-9). When in doubt, consult with your music teacher or a trusted professional.

Size Selection Guide

How to Measure: Measure from the tip of the index finger to the tip of the pinky with the hand naturally extended. Round down if between sizes.

Q: Why choose a laminated double bass?
A: A fully laminated double bass offers greater resistance to cracking and environmental stress than a carved or hybrid instrument. This makes it especially practical for beginning students, frequent transportation, changing climates, and shared school-program use.

Q: What is the difference between the standard and deluxe Prelude Double Bass Outfits?
A: Both outfits include the same Franz Hoffmann Prelude Double Bass, choice of French- or German-grip bow, padded bag, bass rosin, endpin stop, and cleaning cloths. The Deluxe Outfit also includes a tuner-metronome, a folding music stand with carrying bag, a wooden pencil, and a 5-color highlighter for a more complete lesson and practice package.

Q: Does this double bass come with a bow and bag?
A: Yes. This deluxe outfit includes the double bass, a brazilwood bow with natural horsehair and a half-lined frog in the player's choice of French or German grip, a 5 mm. padded double bass bag, bass rosin, an endpin stop, a cleaning cloth, a taper cloth, a tuner-metronome, a folding music stand with carrying bag, a wooden pencil, and a 5-color highlighter. For the instrument alone, see the Franz Hoffmann Prelude Double Bass, or for the smaller accessory package, see the Franz Hoffmann Prelude Double Bass Outfit.

Q: How does the Prelude compare to the Franz Hoffmann Concert Double Bass?
A: The Prelude uses enhanced, fully laminated construction to prioritize durability and value for beginning players. The Concert Double Bass combines a carved spruce top with laminated maple back and sides for greater resonance and tonal complexity while retaining program-friendly strength.

Q: Is the bass ready to play when it arrives?
A: Yes! Every Franz Hoffmann bass is professionally set up at Shar Music's workshop, including bridge fitting, sound post adjustment, and string installation. Simply tune and play!

Q: What is your return policy?
A: Shar Music offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied, you can return the outfit within 30 days of purchase for a full refund or exchange.

Q: Does this outfit come with a warranty?
A: Yes. This outfit is covered by Shar Music's 1-Year Limited Warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. The warranty is non-transferable and does not cover normal wear and tear or misuse.

Care Instructions

• Wipe the bass after each playing session with a soft, dry cloth to remove rosin dust and perspiration
• Store in its bag when not in use to protect from dust, bumps, and sudden changes in temperature or humidity
• Retract the endpin before moving or storing the bass, and tighten the endpin screw securely before playing
• Use the endpin stop on a stable surface to prevent the bass from slipping and to protect the floor
• Check the bridge occasionally and ensure it remains upright and properly positioned, especially after tuning
• Replace strings when needed, typically every 12–18 months depending on playing frequency and use
• Loosen bow hair after each playing session to maintain camber (the curve of the stick) and prevent warping
• Clean bow regularly by wiping rosin dust from the stick with a soft, dry cloth
• Avoid touching bow hair with fingers as oils prevent the hair gripping on strings
• Check button/screw mechanism periodically to ensure smooth tension adjustment
• Rehair when needed, typically every 6–12 months depending on playing frequency
• Fold and store the music stand in its carrying bag when not in use to protect it during storage and transport