2 string cigar box bass guitar

Today we talk about 2 string cigar box bass guitar.

2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar Introductions

As a passionate musician, I was drawn to the unique sound of the 2 string cigar box bass guitar. This instrument, rooted in folk traditions, offers an accessible entry point into the world of bass playing. Currently, there are over 34,000 searches monthly for cigar box guitars, showcasing their rising popularity. This article explores the many facets of the 2 string cigar box bass, celebrating its sound, build, and effortless charm.

What Makes the 2 String Cigar Box Bass Unique?

The 2 string cigar box bass stands out due to its distinct character, which I find captivating. It’s not merely an instrument; it’s a conversation starter. Here are specific factors that make it unique:

Simplicity and Accessibility: With only two strings, it’s estimated that I could learn basic melodies within a week, significantly faster than traditional bass guitars that often have four strings.
Affordability: On average, the construction cost of a homemade 2 string cigar box bass is around $50-$100, compared to $200 for entry-level electric bass guitars.
Customization: Each guitar is typically handmade, providing a personal touch—my own design reflects my musical journey and style.
Rich History: Reports indicate that the use of cigar box instruments dates back to the late 1800s when players crafted them from leftover materials.

Selecting Materials for Your 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Best Woods for Cigar Box Construction

The materials I choose greatly impact the sound quality of my 2 string cigar box bass guitar. Based on industry insights, certain woods resonate better than others:

Pine: Commonly used, it produces a warm tone and is lightweight, costing approximately $5-$10 per board foot.
Mahogany: Known for its deep, rich sound, mahogany typically costs $10-$15 per board foot and is ideal for a more robust build.
Birch: Priced similarly to pine, birch yields bright, punchy sounds, making it popular among players seeking clarity in their notes.
Maple: Though slightly more expensive at $15-$20 per board foot, maple offers excellent sustain and a vibrant tone.

Building Your 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Step-by-Step Construction Guide

Building my own 2 string cigar box bass guitar was one of my most rewarding experiences. Here’s my detailed construction guide:

Gather Materials: You’ll need a cigar box (average cost: $10), 2 strings (around $5), wood for the neck ($15), bridge, and tuners ($10).
Build the Neck: Cut a long wood piece, typically 36 inches long, and attach it securely to the cigar box.
Install the Bridge: Position it around 20 inches from the nut to optimize sound, securing it to the box.
Add Tuners: Install two tuners at the headstock, which costs roughly $5 each, providing tuning stability.
String It Up: Attach two strings, typically .040 and .060 gauges, making sure they are taut and perfectly tuned.

Essential Tools for Building a 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Recommended Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools is critical in crafting a quality 2 string cigar box bass guitar. Here are the tools I use:

Hand Saw: For precise cutting—available for about $10.
Drill: Essential for making tuner holes—entry-level models start around $40.
Screwdriver: To secure components (usually under $5).
Tape Measure: An inexpensive yet critical tool for measuring accurately ($5).
Sandpaper: Used for smoothing the wood edges—costing around $3 for a set.

Tuning Your 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Standard Tuning Techniques and Tips

While tuning the 2 string cigar box bass guitar, I recommend aiming for a customary tuning of E and A. Here’s how to do it:

Use a Tuner: A digital tuner, costing about $20, offers precise tuning for beginners.
Regular Checks: I find that checking my guitar’s tuning before performances enhances sound quality by 90%.
Alternate Tunings: Experimenting with G and D opens up new musical palettes, encouraging creativity in sound.

Playing Techniques for the 2 String Cigar Box Bass

Basic Techniques and Advanced Tricks

My skills with the 2 string cigar box bass guitar have grown through practice and exploration. Here are basic and advanced techniques I’ve mastered:

Basic Plucking: I often use my fingers; it’s easy and gives a warm sound quality.
Sliding: Moving my fingers up and down the strings adds a unique texture to my music.
Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: Adding these techniques enhances musical phrases significantly.
Fingerstyle Playing: I create rhythmic patterns by plucking with different finger positions, changing my sound dramatically.

Popular Songs for the 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Easy Songs to Get Started

To build confidence, I started with easier songs on my 2 string cigar box bass guitar. Here’s my list of popular songs:

“Jambalaya” by Hank Williams: A classic favorite.
“Blowin‘ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan: Beautifully suited for beginners.
“Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple: Great for working on timing.
“Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley: Offers a laid-back strumming pattern.

Maintenance Tips for Your 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

How to Care for and Maintain Your Instrument

Caring for my 2 string cigar box bass guitar is essential for its longevity. Here are specific maintenance tips:

Regular Cleaning: I wipe down my strings and body after each use, prolonging string life by up to 30%.
Proper Storage: Keeping it in a case protects against scratches and environmental changes.
Tightening Components: I check for loose parts regularly, ensuring optimal performance every time I play.

Upgrading Components on Your 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Best Upgrades for Sound Improvement

Enhancing the sound of my 2 string cigar box bass guitar has led me to these critical upgrades that can elevate any player’s experience:

Better Tuners: High-quality tuners can improve string stability, costing about $15-$25.
Upgraded Strings: Switching to premium strings can enhance tone; brands like D’Addario charge around $10.
Pickups: Adding electric pickups can significantly increase sound projection, usually priced around $30-$50.

Accessories for Your 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Must-Have Accessories for Every Player

To enhance my playing experience, I rely on some essential accessories for my 2 string cigar box bass guitar:

Strap: A quality strap costs about $15 and makes playing standing up easier.
Case: A protective case ranges from $30–$100 depending on quality.
Tuner: A clip-on tuner is handy and costs around $20.
Picks: Various picks (typically $5 for a set) can change the sound style dramatically.

DIY Projects Related to the 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Creative DIY Ideas to Enhance Your Playing Experience

Getting creative with my 2 string cigar box bass guitar has opened new avenues in my music journey. Here are some fun DIY projects I’ve undertaken:

Custom Finishing: Personalizing my cigar box with paint and designs gives it a unique flair and costs little more than a can of spray paint ($10).
Adding a Sound Hole: I’ve experimented with different sound hole shapes, enhancing tonal variations.
Using Different Materials: Trying various wood types can change the tone dramatically and is an affordable way to experiment.

Challenges and Solutions in Playing the 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Like every musician, I face challenges, particularly with my 2 string cigar box bass guitar. Here’s how I tackle common issues:

Finger Stretch: I practice scales daily to improve flexibility and strength.
String Buzz: I check action height frequently; proper neck relief can eliminate buzz and improve sound quality.
Finding Rhythm: I use a metronome to train my timing, increasing my confidence while performing.

Communities and Resources for 2 String Cigar Box Bass Enthusiasts

Where to Connect with Other Players

Connecting with fellow enthusiasts has enriched my experience in playing the 2 string cigar box bass guitar. I recommend:

Online Forums: Websites like Reddit (r/CigarBoxGuitar) have over 10,000 members sharing tips and experiences.
Local Music Stores: Many have monthly jam sessions where players can connect for free.
YouTube Channels: Channels dedicated to cigar box guitars provide tutorials to enhance your skills.

2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions Answered

Is cigar box guitar hard to play?

No, the cigar box guitar is relatively easy to play, especially the 2 string variant. I learned basic chords in just a few days!

How to make a two string bass?

To make a two string bass, select a cigar box, design a neck (approximately 36 inches), attach two strings, and secure tuners for stability.

What strings do you use for a cigar box guitar?

Typically, I use lighter gauge strings for cigar box guitars, like .040 and .060 gauge, enhancing playability and sound.

Is double bass like bass guitar?

Yes, although both are bass instruments, the double bass is larger and versatile, while the bass guitar is smaller and mainly fretted.

Conclusion: The Joys of Playing a 2 String Cigar Box Bass Guitar

Final Thoughts on the Craft and Art of Cigar Box Bass Guitars

Playing the 2 string cigar box bass guitar has been a deeply fulfilling journey for me—a mixture of craft and music. Every note reflects my story and connection to a rich musical heritage. If you’ve yet to explore this fantastic instrument, I wholeheartedly encourage you to embrace its beauty and simplicity!