Burns-bass

I was talking to the venerable Dpuble Bass luthier Martin Penning about this very issue. I took my DB in to him and he basically rebuilt the thing for me. I questioned whether it had affected the originality, and we discussed that in the orchestral world, it's all about tone and playability that matters. He gave my (very) humble instrument the same level of care one many times the price would cost. When I took a 66 jazz into the workshop to get sorted before a gig the guitar tech was shocked when I suggested resoldering the Jack socket. Basically, if you play it then it will need work at some point. But it keeps it playable, which is what they're for. There's something slightly sad about a vintage instrument that's never touched or played or enjoyed. I always believe that about mint condition guitars. Whoever bought it never enjoyed it or used it. Sad really. Sorry, nonsensical rambling over.

I often play along to the Liquid Spirit album. Poorly of course, but that bass tone and the soulful but restrained playing is beautiful.

My suggestion would be to find a teacher and get some lessons. Most will have a DB you can use, and they can then help you to find an appropriate DB. Don't spend a huge amount of money off he cuff (I say this as someone who did just that), have a chat with some people in the know. Playing upright is a tough old thing to do, and you can get yourself into all sorts of problems if you don't do it properly. If you let us know where you are perhaps we can help! Once you get over the initial horror of learning what is in essence a completely new instrument you'll love it - I bet.