Wolf Instruments

Historic Keyboard and Double Bass Makers in The Plains, Virginia


Our Models

If you are looking for a brand-new instrument, we offer several different models and options. Please fill out our Order Form so that we may contact you to discuss your instrument.

Your instrument can be customized through several options. Some popular choices include C-extensions, removable necks, and modern and/or historical setups. Other options include 4-, 5-, or 6-string necks, laminated ribs, and round backs. We also offer a variety of materials, including maple, poplar, and walnut.

A deposit of $1,000 is required to be placed on our waitlist.

Below are examples of our available models.


Maggini

This classical orchestra bass is patterned on an instrument by Giovanni Paolo Maggini circa 1620, owned by Richard Barber. We have the pleasure and responsibility of maintaining the original instrument, and have made several reproductions. The Maggini model provided the inspiration for many of the great English double basses. This type of double bass is found in every major symphony orchestra around the world. It has a deep bottom register and a penetrating upper register. While most commonly made as a four-string bass, we have successfully made this as a five-string, a four-string for historically informed performance practice, and even as a six-string violone!


“Little Dutchy”

This model is based on a superior instrument owned by Ira Gold. It’s small in size and large in sound! Based on a 17th-century Dutch instrument with whalebone purfling, the “Little Dutchy” was probably originally made as a violone with five or six strings. The arching is rather shallow, producing a very responsive sound. With its sloping shoulders, the “Little Dutchy” is very easy to play. This model can be made with either a flat (original) or round back, and in a modern or historic set-up.

Can be made as a D-Violone


Viennese

I’ve always admired the sound and playability of Viennese instruments, whether set up for modern playing or historic performance. This bass, while not a copy, fits directly into the traditions of Thir, Stadlmann, and Posch. I think an 18th-century player in Vienna would feel very comfortable with this instrument. Though traditionally this model is set up for historic performance, we have made this as a modern four-string. A good orchestra or jazz bass.


Prescott

In my playing career, I had the pleasure of owning two Prescotts. While I loved the sound, the size was sometimes difficult to manage. I wondered, “What if I took the Prescott and shrunk it down to normal size?” This picture was my first attempt at making the smaller Prescott, and this bass currently plays first stand in the National Symphony Orchestra! A subsequent reproduction won a Certificate for Tone in the ISB Maker’s Competition. This model can be made in either a four or five string setup.


Stainer Violone

Based on an instrument by Jacob Stainer that now resides in Copenhagen. This model is a fairly accurate copy, although we did chose to use the later model F-holes as opposed to the C-holes that Stainer used earlier in his career. The string length of this model at 86cm suggests a tuning in G. This model can be customized to suit the player’s preference.


Umbrian

Made by Jacob Stone

A style of instrument that began by copying a Pietro Pallotta double bass from 1795, has now grown into a model all it’s own. A smaller body length paired with fairly deep ribs adds depth and dimension to the sound, without sacrificing play-ability and access to the upper register. The Umbrian showcases carvings, motifs, and custom fittings stemming from historical viola da gamba making. This is an instrument that is not just functional, but also a piece of art that you’ll be proud to showcase on stage and in your studio. The last of this model won a Silver Medal for Tone and a Certificate of Merit for workmanship at the 2025 ISB Maker’s Competition. Custom themes and special requests always encouraged!