As we step into the new year, we wanted to take a moment to look back at what\u2019s been happening here in the shop and share a few things we\u2019re genuinely excited about moving forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the shifts this past year has been our renewed commitment to communication. These weekly newsletters are now a regular part of what we do, with shop updates, videos, and ideas that reflect how we think about basses, sound, and how it\u2019s all made. You\u2019ll also start seeing more of this content carried over to the blog as we prepare to launch a redesigned website that better reflects who we are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looking ahead, we\u2019re also working on something entirely new: a dedicated Upton Bass app. The goal is to create a focused, distraction-free space for the bass community to connect, learn, and collaborate, without algorithms or noise. It\u2019s a long-term investment in how we stay in touch with you and with like-minded makers and players around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the bench, and on the bandstand, this year brought some meaningful perspective. Gary has started playing again in real musical settings, and a bit unexpectedly on a five-string plywood bass. This first hand, hands-on experience of living with the bass on stage is already feeding into the five-string instruments we\u2019re building now and planning for the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another major focus this year has been the amplifier project. It\u2019s taken longer than expected, purely because we refused to compromise. The result is a purpose-built double bass amplifier designed from the ground up for piezo pickups, correct input impedance, and true acoustic response. This is not a repurposed electric bass amp. It\u2019s a specialty tool, developed with the same care we bring to our instruments and pickups. We\u2019re targeting a small pilot run by the end of March, with cabinets built and finished here in the shop and components sourced as thoughtfully as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
None of this happens in isolation. We\u2019re grateful to our entire shop crew, our collaborators, and most of all to you, our community, for your continued support, thoughtful questions, and trust. As always, if you have a thought, an idea, or a question, don\u2019t hesitate to reach out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s to another year of building, refining, and making basses, and bass gear, that truly serve the music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Warm regards,
Upton Bass<\/p>\n\n\n\n