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Example Restoration Project: 1937 American Standard

A lengthy “top off” restoration of a historic instrument for a New York performer is Mike Asetta’s current restoration project. The instrument requiring attention is a rare American Standard double bass from 1937, the second year of production of these instruments by H. N. White Company.  This instrument is the 273rd American Standard bass, built…
  • double bass, luthier, string instrument repair
  • September 3, 2021

The soundpost is a simple transmitter, hundreds of years before radio it was broadcasting sound. How can a short, round, wood post make much of a difference to my string instrument?

Lets review how the soundpost works! The player initiates the sound by vibrating the string either through arco or pizzicato (bowed or plucked) methods. The string transfers the vibration, directing it through the bridge. The bridge extends the vibration to the instrument’s top. The top, like a pond of once still water, expands the vibrations…
  • luthier, stringed instrument
  • March 9, 2021

Two basses undergoing intensive restoration: an early American example from the”Prescott family,” the second a busetto corner instrument, over 200 years old

Meticulous work underway with the goal of returning two centuries old instruments to playable condition for today’s performance specifications. One, a half size instrument, is a beautiful example of the unique construction techniques practiced by the early “bass viol” makers in the Concord New Hampshire area. The second instrument undergoing a lengthy restoration appears to…
  • historic string instrument, luthier, prescott bass
  • July 6, 2022

Craftsmanship, to an Art!

Bringing craftsmanship to an art! Combining woodworking excellence with high level music performance – artist and luthier Mike Asetta knows how your instrument should sound AND how you will enjoy its playability. If you are seeking high quality repair or restoration of your string instrument, seek out Mike Asetta. Mike repairs all string instruments, violins to…
  • luthier, string instrument repair
  • August 13, 2021

Lou DiLeone

We are saddened to learn of the recent passing of Lou DiLeone.  His sensitivity to and comprehension of the natural and organic properties of the double bass instrument are unsurpassed.  Lou also possessed a deep understanding and experience with the geometric properties impacting the tonal qualities and sound production of the double bass.  His skills…
  • luthier, string instrument repair
  • December 23, 2021

Wood Selection

Scouring Europe for alpine spruce and hard maple, exceptional quality wood for repair projects and new double basses  –  as soon as COVID subsides we will return to the home of string instrument’s finest tonewood – the Bavarian Alps.  European spruce  grows on the upper slopes of the Alps and harvested by traditions practiced for…
  • luthier, string instrument repair
  • August 13, 2021

Restoration Project – completed and living anew, then sold!!

Complete re-build of 1971 Gotz round-back bass.  Began with only bass body, hand carved new neck, grafted old scroll to neck, set neck to body, refinishing as needed.  Soon another great bass ready for you to take home – and she was sold, revived and living again! Maker labeled:  Conrad Gotz 1971 West Germany “Model…
  • luthier, repair
  • July 26, 2021