RICK TOONE

Building a bass for Halie.

She's a young but promising bassist who sets her watch by the movements of Green Day (no...not Greenery Day). I can relate, because for me, for many years, there were no other bands but Rush (no...not this idiot). Since Green Day are fans of Rush (just listen to the rhythms) I can respect where she's coming from. It's alright by me.

Ever notice how huge and clunky a P-bass is?

Fits great if you're a 6'2" 190lb male. But Halie's...what...5'4" 120lbs, or so? A full-sized bass to her is like wrestling with a surfboard. Just think about smaller — feminine — fingers, too.

What to do?

Orchid is created for her. 32" scale length, with all the balances and proportions of the instrument totally Picassoed to make it a Prada-fit for a young woman. But, damn, wouldn't you know it also fits me better than any bass I've yet played? Perfect balance: standing or seated.

Design sketched out in the photo below. Look at that flame maple. Click to grow. Orchid is going to be g...o...r...g...e...o...u...s. Did I mention Halie likes purple? One purple Orchid coming soon to a stage near you.

ORCHID SERIES:

Orchid Design
Orchid (Explained)
Stacked Laminate Neck Construction
Orchid Body
Orchid Neck Construction (Trapezoidal)
Trapezoidal Neck Profile
Skipping Ahead
Purple
Orchid Assembly

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