Basses

The electric bass was somewhat of a novelty in 1954, and although Carvin didn't produce their own model, the company did offer something for the electric bassist.

Early Carvin Literature

1954 Guitars

1954 Guitar Amps

1954 Bass Amps

The cover of the 20-page 1954 catalog showed a Carvin steel guitar, and Lowell Kiesel's wife, Agnes, playing a Fender Telecaster, as well as a #8805 steel guitar & a Model #119 amp.

Click each picture for a larger version.

In 1954, you could buy an electric bass from Carvin, but it would say "Fender" on the headstock.  Early in Carvin's history, they were authorized resellers for a number of other manufacturers, including Fender, Martin and DeArmond.  In this case, Carvin offered a now-cherished Precision Bass, in natural finish with maple neck and black pickguard.  This bass sold for $199.50, and a Fender hardshell case was an additional $39.95.