Is the Double Bass the Largest Instrument in the String Family?

The question of whether the double bass is the largest string instrument is a common one, and the answer isn't straightforward. While the double bass is undoubtedly a powerful instrument and the largest commonly used in professional orchestras, there are larger string instruments that exist primarily as historical curiosities or one-offs.

Historical Oddities and Controversies

Many articles assert that the double bass is not the largest string instrument ever created. One of the most notable examples is the octobass, a historical oddity that adds an additional bass octave, reaching down to 20 Hz. This rare instrument has only been featured in a single 19th-century work, further diminishing its claim to being a standard instrument.

Other Large String Instruments

At the opposite end of the scale, there are miniature mutations of violins, but these are not considered part of the standard string family. Another contender is William Close's "earth harp," a massive stringed instrument that is far larger than the double bass. Additionally, the theorbo, a lute instrument, is longer than a double bass, though it is not a stringed instrument in the traditional sense.

Modern Customizations

Modern double basses come in various sizes to accommodate different players. The most common sizes are 1/32, 1/16, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 4/4 (full size). A professional double bass is typically designed to be a little taller than the player with the end pin set to the correct height, allowing the first finger tape to align with the player's eyebrow.

Physical Dimensions of the Double Bass

The physical dimensions of a standard 4/4 double bass can vary, but it is generally between 2 and 2.5 feet (approximately 0.6 to 0.7 meters) wide. The vertical height of the instrument is typically around 3.5 to 4 feet (about 1.1 to 1.2 meters).

Conclusion

In summary, while the double bass is the largest stringed instrument commonly used in contemporary music and orchestras, there are larger historical and modern instruments that can be considered the largest in the string family. The octobass, the earth harp, and the theorbo are all notable examples, even though they are far less common and serve more as unique artistic expressions rather than regular instruments in the classical repertoire.

Whether the double bass is the largest or not depends on the criteria you are using. However, it is certainly the largest instrument used in standard orchestral and chamber music, making it an essential part of the string family.