Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a Whamola?
A: The Whamola is a unique and unconventional bass instrument, hand crafted in Sonoma County, CA with locally and globally sourced materials. It features a single string stretched between two points across an aluminum body, over a finished hardwood fingerboard, and is played by using a combination of whammy bar-style pitch bending, finger-plucking techniques and hitting the string with a stick.

The Whamola produces a distinctive, growling sound that combines elements of traditional bass tones with a wide range of pitch modulation. Its design and sound allows for expressive and experimental playing.

Q: How are the Whamolas tested? 
A: A lot of R&D and no less than 45 minutes of stress testing.

Q: How involved is Les in the production of the Whamola?
A: Every step of the way! Les started with the basic design and there has been years of fine tuning since.

Q: How do you tune a Whamola?
A: With the Whamola bar fully compressed, tune up to F♯ (F Sharp).

Q: Does it come with a stick?
A: No, it does not come with a stick.

Q: What stick is used for the Whamola?
A: Something soft, preferably bundle sticks.

Q: What string is used for the Whamola?
A: G string for a 4/4 Full Sized Cello.

Q: Do you ship worldwide?
A: Unfortunately, we are only shipping within the US as of now.

Q: Do you offer a warranty?
A: We offer a 1 year non-transferable warranty, which begins at the shipping date of your Whamola. Please review our Whamola warranty policy for further details.

Q: What is your return policy?
A: You will have 1 week from the delivery date to return a Whamola for a refund of 80% of the retail price. If the Whamola is damaged upon receipt, it must be reported upon receipt. For more information, please see the Whamola warranty policy.

Q: If it appears the Whamola is sold out, can I preorder one before they become available again?
A: If the Whamola sells out, a waiting list will be available for those that are interested in purchasing a Whamola when they are in stock.