Why not the piano as a reference for bass

@freediver 

As we all know, a piano is a percussion instrument.

It's Geddy Lee on the Moog Taurus if you want bass pedals in rock.

I understand the Bosendorfer Imperial piano has an extra register at the bottom end of the scale and will play down to 16.5Hz.   I’ve not heard one on a recording, but my College had one in the Hall, and it was mighty powerful when well played!

@Freediver, thank you for reminding me of this.   Now I’ve got to hunt for a recording!

@freediver 

I wasn't trying to give you a hard time. Just struck me as funny that you wouldn't think of a piano as a stringed instrument and I know that you realize that it is. As others point out, the deepest bass notes on the piano are often accompanied by other notes and are often short in duration, unless the sustain pedal is used for more than a second or so. I'm sure we all know all this stuff. Also, pointing out the new Bosendorfer and I think some other makers having the extended bass pianos. I've not heard one yet except on computer video, doesn't quite do it justice. 

This is all interesting reading. 

@guscreek  Interesting question.

Hence, in my opinion the double bass is a more reliable reference of the bass than piano considering the how often one can hear these lower notes. One can clearly hear the purring of the double bass in jazz ensembles most of the time right in the middle of the sound stage. It would be interesting to hear from those who know how often one hear the lowest note of the modern piano (27.5 Hz) in classical and jazz music. 

@toddalin  Terrific answer. Do you play?