Why not the piano as a reference for bass

@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?

Played clarinet from 5th through 12th and keyboards in a garage band in the late 60s early 70s.

Had equipment to die for back then (Hammond, Hohner, Vox, Farfisa, Moog and EML synths), but sold it off to pay for college. 

Another thought on the topic.  You hear basses go down to their low E-string literally all the time, so people have a feel for it (did someone say reference?).

But how often you you hear a piano playing low A?

After seeing Dick Contino I took up the Accordion. By the fifth grade the Clarinet was the only instrument open. I simply didn't practice enough and got the boot. Devastating at that age. Meh...

When I got to High school Paul Jackson soon to be Herbie's Bassist on Head Hunters was playing upright in the school combo. Why he took the time to introduce a freshman / surfer to the Bass took me a while to understand. He later mentioned quarter notes were the first notes I played without any coaching. Sweet man.

B3? My aching back. 

As to the Doors, I would hope that one's system allows them to differentiate the sound of a bass guitar...,

https://youtu.be/ptA39Awo0FE

and a Rhodes Piano bass...,

https://youtu.be/nOJSmXSFCWk

It should also be obvious as to whether Ray is playing a Hammond, a Vox, or a Gibson organ in each cut.