is THIS a "Double Bass" (it only has 2 strings)?

Question

why is an acoustic upright bass called a "double bass"
i made one outta cardboard box and weed whacker twine and it sounds AS GOOD AS any $2000+ upright bass, the video is proof
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6cTbaBApM4

Answer 1

Your wonderful craftmanship aside... here's the story behind the name.

The instrument's standard English name, "double bass," comes from the instrument's Italian name contrabbasso (contrabass). The name "double bass" may be derived from the double bass' size, since it is approximately twice as large as the cello, or because the double bass was originally used to double the cello part an octave lower. It has also been suggested that the name derives from its viol family heritage, in that it is tuned lower than the standard bass viola da gamba. The name also refers to the fact that the sounding pitch of the double bass is an octave below the bass clef. Other terms for the instrument among classical performers are string bass, contrabass, or simply bass. Jazz musicians often call it the acoustic bass to distinguish it from electric bass guitars. Especially when used in folk and bluegrass music, the instrument can also be referred to as an upright bass, standup bass, bass fiddle, bass viol, contrabass viol, bass violin, doghouse bass, dog-house, bull fiddle, hoss bass, or bunkhouse bass.

Answer 2

I don't know about it sounding as good as a $2000 bass, but I think you're inventive and talented. I especially like the weed whacker strings. Good work!

Answer 3

sounds really good. I wouldn't compare it to a real bass. $2000+ basses don't have as much buzzing sound.

let's not compare it to a bass. make it your instrument.