Okay, there are traditionalists. They go for the visual of using an actual metal tub, and that's all well and good. It's difficult to play and the results one may achieve vary greatly depending upon the individual's playing approach and materials used. Then, there are those, few though they may be, with a burr in their britches, that go for something different. They are not afraid to stand out among the many, to step away from the maddening crowd, boldly plucking where few have tubbed before. No, they do not fear innovation, inventiveness, or looking beyond convention to rekindle the pioneer spirit which was the very backbone of the jug band musical philosophy. No, they did not settle for merely sounding good but continued to push the musical envelope to discover a better way, a better sound. They were not satisfied but rather yearned for something more, something easier to play. I'm talking about something just as unique and visually stimulating for an audience to view as it is played. In fact, it is played in just the same fashion, except the result is incredible. You'll discover unbelievable volume and tone that simply can't be had from the traditional tub. No it isn't some kind of digital doohickeythingamabob with flashing lights and volume knobs. Those few brave souls I'm talking about have used something that is as easy to locate, about as expensive to buy as a metal tub but as I've said produces much greater response. What would you pay for such a device. Portability is not an issue as it is smaller than the standard tub. If I gave you an alternative like this would you choose it?

Now that I've got your attention, can we talk about Amway.

Just kidding!

It is starting to sound a bit like one of them ads you catch late at night on tv isn't it?

I'm talking about using a small bass drum body instead of a tub. There only needs to be a head on one side of it which can be reinforced with leather washers to accomodate the hardware used to connect the string. As I have said, the big difference is in the results and they are astounding, volume galore, tone that would make many upright bassists jealous and with an ease of playabilty that will make you want to fall down on your knees with thankfulness.

Hey, come to think of it, maybe I should be charging for this kind of info.

I know from whence I speak. I've played with upright players, metal tub players and with my good friend Dr. James Rhythm who happens to use a drum body for his tub and there is no comparison.

Have fun, go crazy, keep on tubbin'!