Foolestroupe- as others have commented on this board, acoustic bass guitars just don't have much "oomph" unplugged. It'd be nice not to have to haul an amp into a folk club, but if you're going to be drowned out then what's the point?

Eric- I do listen to Danny Thompson, but it'd be nice to have something I could physically aim for, rather than just whimper with admiration!

I think you have to take it for granted that bass is best used in collaboration with another instrument. Guitar would be the obvious choice, but is there any reason it shouldn't work with violin or concertina? Please keep the suggestions coming