I started on electric bass a long time ago, no longer play it though I still own my first one. I moved to acoustic guitar for several years, have learned the basics of tin whistle, and these days I am concentrating on 5-string banjo, which I have found to be the easiest way for me to make a melody that sounds like more than one finger playing on a piano. Also I've picked up a few great tips on singing since I've been frequenting Mudcat - thanks all especially Alice in Montana.

Jeremiah McCaw, thanks for posting the link to the acoustic bass pictures. I've built a couple of instruments as a hobby - which is a great kick - and have contemplated building a bass very similar to that. I have always wondered why the big instrument companies insist on sacrificing body volume for neck length on AB's - it was great to see that someone shares my vision of short neck, big body. Please tell me more about the sound and shape of your instrument.