This Kay M1W, serial number 6859 is a clean example of a vintage Kay. The build and overall look is typical for the 1940s-50s. The M1W designation is unusual \u2014 possibly a short-run variation or contract model Kay produced for a specific order \u2014 which makes this one an interesting find.<\/p>\n
The bass features what appears to be its original ebony nut, suggesting the fingerboard may also be original. In any case, it\u2019s a solid ebony board in good overall condition. It currently has an aftermarket adjustable bridge that will receive a full set of shop adjustments before it leaves here. <\/p>\n
The bass also comes equipped with a Fishman BP-100 pickup to get you started, along with a bow quiver and what seems to be a Meridian cover. The strings on it now are D\u2019Addario Helicores, giving the bass a punchy, lively feel. An upgraded non-original endpin is installed as well \u2014 definitely a step up from the factory hardware.<\/p>\n
The back has an interesting one-piece veneer with attractive flame, showing normal cosmetic wear for its age, while the top is in very good condition with minimal distortion on the treble side \u2014 a great sign on a vintage Kay. The neck has a one-piece heel, and the classic Kluson machines, likely nickel-plated, complete the period-correct look.<\/p>\n
Sonically, it has all the characteristics you expect from a well-preserved Kay: thumpy and warm. Once we complete the setup, this bass will be ready to go and playing its best.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A clean Kay M1W (#6859) with original-feeling ebony board and nut, upgraded bridge with adjusters, Fishman BP-100 pickup, quiver, and cover. Solid top with minimal distortion, interesting one-piece veneer back, upgraded endpin, and classic Kluson tuning machines. Warm, thumpy Kay tone, with full shop setup included.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":186644,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":[],"product_brand":[],"product_cat":[857],"product_tag":[903,377],"class_list":{"0":"post-186642","1":"product","2":"type-product","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"product_cat-sold-kay-double-bass-viols","7":"product_tag-kay-bass","8":"product_tag-used-double-bassvintage-double-bass","10":"first","11":"instock","12":"taxable","13":"shipping-taxable","14":"purchasable","15":"product-type-simple"},"bundled_by":[],"bundle_stock_status":"instock","bundle_stock_quantity":null,"bundle_virtual":false,"bundle_layout":"","bundle_add_to_cart_form_location":"","bundle_editable_in_cart":false,"bundle_sold_individually_context":"","bundle_item_grouping":"","bundle_min_size":"","bundle_max_size":"","bundle_price":[],"bundled_items":[],"bundle_sell_ids":[],"yoast_head":"\n