Carvin BK4A Bass Kit

I got the kit about a year and a half ago, ordered it via phone. 4-string, 22 frets on rosewood. Ordered the basic wood, chrome hardware, active/passive electronics w/ that fat alinco magnet pickup at the bridge and regular "J" pickup at the neck. Controls include volume, tone (btwn pickups), bass, mid and treble (for active mode only), and a switch for the bridge pickup position. Active electronics are activated via the volume knob, just push it down and there you go! Sting-through body. For the finish, I went a different route than what the factory recommended-used two coats of a hardwood finish and two coats of hand-rubbed poly. May not be the recommended thing to do, but hey, I was the one putting it together.
I also ordered the strap locks. For a kit, I think Carvin gives you a decent array of options. It also came with bubble wrap... which occupied some time when I was waiting for the finish to dry. However, the one option that wasn't available was the new bridge pickup system (pickups on the bridge itself).

I play rock and blues primarily, and this bass suits me well. It has a sound similar to the basses from the late 60's/early 70's-great range in all frequencies and it's own growl, especially in passive mode. I'm not too keen on the active mode, while it does offer pretty good tone shaping controls, I only use active when I need an output boost. I play it through an older SWR Workingman's 15 and a Washburn Bass King 15W practice amp. Sound is well balanced through the SWR, but the Washburn rattles above "3" on the volume (though I used that rattle in the studio).
I have yet to use the bass on stage, but I have used it in the studio. It cuts through the mix very well on the recordings, but it does have some noise behind it that had to be filtered out... that was in passive mode with more of the bridge pickup than the neck. But, it could have been my wiring and shielding, and possiblythe computer monitors could have interacted with it as well (I recorded direct while sitting in the control room, and if I turned and faced a certain way, the hiss dropped a little).
I also use a Tascam MKIII PortaStudio (cassette) for writing parts, and I sometimes have problems with the bass-either it's too low or I'm clipping the channel, and that's still in passive mode... and the only difference between these two extremes is about a hair's turn on the volume. Weird. But the aforementioned negatives aside, it has a REALLY good biting, growling sound.

When I got the boxes, I was thinking, "Okay, what problems am I going to have putting this thing together?" Surprisingly, I didn't have any! All the drill-holes lined up, the bridge was pre-aligned, the frets didn't have any rough edges. The problems I did encounter were finding a place for the bass to dry between coats of finish, and a tweak of the truss rod once all was said and done. Also, with the alinco pickup, they only show you one wiring option for the switch, which I followed. The rest of the settings are good-I guess by assembling the thing myself I made sure that screws were tight, tuners weren't wiggly, pickup height was adequate, and the action was to my desired height and tension.
As I mentioned before, I went against their recommendatins for the finish. I used two coats of a Minwax stain that took pretty well to the neck and body (a nice reddish-brown) and then two coats of hand-rubbed poly. After some time, the poly does change the color, making it slightly amber. I've gotten compliments on the color, people have asked how old it was (it could pass for vintage), and they're surprised when I tell them that it's only 1.5 years old, and they're evne more surprised when I tell them I put it together myself.

This thing is built like a tank. There's no wiggling, shaking, or shimmying.
The finish has shown a couple of scuff marks, but I really don't care; it's my own fualt anyway.
I used Dunlop Strap Locks, and they are holding pretty well.
Even though I haven't used it live, I know that it will hold up well, and I'd go without a backup. I also haven't adjusted the truss rod since the first adjustment after assembly.

Never had to deal with Carvin again, so I wouldn't know.

I've been playing bass for ten years. I have an Ibanez SR 800, and an Ovation acoustic-electric. I've been longing for a bass that emulates the "classic-rock" sound... low end power and mid/high range growl... without the pricetag... and my search has ended. God forbid that I lose this bass... I'd definitely have to get another one. There's little that compares to playing an instrument that you've assembled yourself... especially when it sounds great and people comment on how it looks... you can be proud even when you hit the wrong note.

Got the 2003 bolt on kit from Carvin. Ordered online. I chose the Swamp Ash body with active electronics and humbucker at the bridge. The active/passive module is just that, switchable between active and passive if your battery dies, and has the volume, pickup pan, bass, treble, and mid controls. Also has the coil tap since I got the humbucker optino. All black hardware. I ended up staining this a walnut color (neck and body) and then sealing with tung oil then some lemon oil. All options were also 50% off.

Sound is great! Much better than I anticipated. With the tapable humbucker, jj at the neck, and active controls, you almost don't even need a preamp. You can tune in just about any sound you want with it, from bright highs to muddy lows. Sounds like a bass 3 times the cost.

Action is great. Considering this was a kit and I built it myself, I was very impressed at how well everything came out in the end. I had no problems and almost needed no adjusting! I just put the stain and tung oil on (took my time to get it right), and then slapped it all together in less than an hour! With almost no adjusting I plugged it in and it shook the room. Feels great. Action can be set real low without much buzz unless you're a hard player.

This was my first instrument to put together myself, and now I'm sold. If I get another one anytime soon it's going to be another kit. If you don't rush it and do it right, you can't beat saving 2/3 of the cost on a new instrument, and also have the satisfaction of playing something you built. This thing is ruggid too. I can already tell it should hold up well. And since I put it together I know every inch of it and could probably do any needed repairs myself fairly easy if I needed.

I did have one problem when I got the kit. They forgot to send me the bridge! But it was not a problem. I called Carvin right up and they were quick to express one to me, no questions asked! I think I got it in like 2 days so it didn't even interupt my build process. I was still in the finish process when it arrived. Another gripe is that on the web one of the hardware options I chose was Black Chrome. I don't know what most people's idea of that is, but black chrome to me means black chrome, not black paint. Aparently, Carvin thinks that is just plain black painted hardware. Anyway, it still looks nice.

I've been playing guitar in general for about 9 years, and as soon as it put this together and started playing, I knew it was a top notch instrument. I could see it easily selling for twice or more as much as I paid for it. Once thing I was a little disappoined with was the online store. This was my first Carvin direct purchase, so at first glance I thought what was listed on the web page was all the options they had. But it turns out you can request more if you call them! I already had my kit before I found this out. If I had known I probably would have chosed a walnut body (so I didn't have to stain it walnut color), and posibly the rounded body. Either way, I still have a great bass and I'm not complaining.

This is a 2003 carvin bolt kit. Made in the good old USA in california orderd direct. The body is walnut, 22 frets, active electronics, vol, pickup balance, bass, tre, and mid controls. Oh yeah it also has a coil tap switch. MM style bridge pickup "SWEET" and a J style at the neck. Maple neck with tung finish on back. The finish is tung oil and came out way better than I ever expected. I don't think many people know that you can order any body wood you would like in the kit form. Sealed tuners, very fine gearing. And also has a hipshot D tuner. All opions were 50% off!! can't beat that!

I already have a carvin 5 string that I bought in 1995. For me the carvin basses are just what I like. The active electronics are awsome and give virtually any tone you want. I have been playing for 16 years and play from oldies to alternative and these basses do it all. I use a boss GT6B effects unit through a peavey cs800 into a peavey 410 and 1x15 cab. Almost no noise when running both pickups. When running the MM style bridge pickup solo you have to be careful of the highs, cause it can be harsh. Very rich tone with just the right amount of bite.

My bass came unfinished. The packaging was second to none. Everything was bubble wrapped and packed tightly. All parts were there and in working order. Don't need to go crazy on the sanding, not a bad job from the factory. I tung oiled the body and back of neck with 4 coats of tung oil. I then polished it with #0000 steel wool and lemon oil. The grain of the walnut body jumps right out. The assembly was fairly easy. The pickup soldering directions could have been a little better. Everything else went together very well, perfect nect joint fit! With a little truss rod fiddling and brigde ajustments I was up and playing! I must give myself a 10 on the set up. I do all my own setup work cause I know what I'm looking for. If you play with a light touch you could get a very low action out of these basses.

Everything seems built to last. Neck adjustments need be done a few times a year it appears. I would gig without a backup without a care. The tung oil finish is tough and easy to maintain. I am not easy on my equipment. I bend the neck to get vibrato and all kinds of stupid stuff and the neck stays right there!

Limited warranty. The people I dealt with were helpful and answered all my questions. I called and asked a question about the wiring and the tech I spoke to was very helpful and patient.

As i said earlier i have been playing for 16 years. I have played many high end basses but none of them play like carvins, and cost more than twice as much. I love the action the tone and the attention to detail. Also like the hipshot D tuner. If stolen i would definatly replace it with a new one. A good sense of accomplishment when you build your own bass and get to use it every weekend after.

2002 4string 2 pc alder body,graphite reinforced maple neck,Ebony fretboard,22 fret, graphite nut,black hardware.Super neck, slim and fast.2 single coils passive sound very nice.Good range.Strings through body.I Finished natural lacquer. hand rubed.Looks Like A $1200 $?$?.Comes with set of strings.Is maybe the lightest base ever felt in 30 years.Love It!

Simalar to another popular 2 single coil jazz base.Extreamly quite comes with copper tape for shielding.Great nuances in tone.Has a unreal neck.Great tuners, stays in tune.Intonation is perfect.Love the sound!

This is the glorious part! Just Do It. Sand 150 then 220,Spray (need 2 cans)Lacquer Clear Gloss-spray Very light coats sand 220/fine Repeat every hour to 3.Untill desired.When happy Steal wool #0000 with lemon oil and with the grain untill lookin good.The rest is easy assemble,solder shielding and pickups,Install strings,Adjust truss rod,Intonate.Enjoy! This is way to easy.For color You can also stain before you spray any clear.

So far so good.The finish is softer than poly but also easier to touch up.Simple easy to rely on.

Nice -NO DECAL COMES WITH KIT-I guess they don't want there name on our work.I think they made a mistake.I made one anyway.Very good product.

I love this bass,comfortable, extreamly light, seams compact.I would reccomend to anyone but does require the skills to finish and intonate.No big woop,read how to do..You only will get out what you put into it! Is way better than a mex fender for same dollars.I give em a 9 1/2 just to keep em honest.

Well, its a bass kit. Comes with everything except finishing materials, and a few tools. I ordered mine with the active electronics (still not entirely sure they were worth it). Mine's made of an Alder body and a maple neck. The hardware is pretty nice, too. More than I expected paying only $400.

I play rock and roll, and indie rock. It works very well, although I am in need of a new amp. I'm only using a practice amp right now, and it just sucks. It's kind of amazing, the range of tones you can get out of this bass.

Well, I guess this is where I rate myself. I rule. The bass plays like a dream, the neck is awesome, almost as easy as playing a six-string guitar.

As long as you finish this bass in something other than tung oil, I think it could survive the average abuse without a sweat. I did, however, put straplocks on, I never trust strap buttons anymore.

Very friendly, I had to call and ask the status of my order. It took 5 minutes.

I love this bass. There's something about putting your own guitar together that makes you love it even more. It really wasn't too hard to put together, the finish was, by far, the hardest part. And that just took a long time, it wasn't really hard to do.

Bought new in 2001, U.S. made and assembled by me in California. It has 22 frets on a nice ebony finger board. I got it with the optional swamp ash body, standard maple neck and all black hardware. The active electronics have volume, pup blend, bass-, treble- and mid-boost/cut. There is a passive-mode switch in case of battery failure. I ordered it with two stacked humbuckers-- I'm not sure whether that is standard or the single coils, because the catalog is not clear on that point. Anyhow, it was at no extra charge. I also bought a rectangular case. Not a lot of options available from the factory, but since you build it yourself, you can add whatever you want. It had everything I wanted.

Since this is my first bass and I've only had it a few weeks, I can't say anything about how it is on stage or in the studio. I think it compares very well with the higher-end Jazz basses I tried. It is not noisy at all. I'm currently using it with a Carvin PB100-15 combo amp. I'd say that if I play with all the tone controls flat, it is pretty bright-- a fair amount of natural string sound. I tend to boost the mids and bass to round it out a bit. Sounds great to me.

Since I did all the setup myself, I'll have to give myself a perfect score. I have adjusted the neck twice in two weeks, but I think that is reasonable on a brand-new neck. It seems to have settled down for now. I finished the body and neck with the basic tung oil, which darkens the wood slightly and accentuates the grain somewhat. I also spent more time sanding and rubbing with steel wool than the instructions suggest, and I'm glad I did. I have since played factory built B4 basses at the Carvin store, and my finish is much nicer. I was very impressed with the fit and finish of the parts. All the holes were in the right places, all the routing was very neat. There was only about .25 mm (.010 inch) clearance between the neck and the pocket in the body. The directions for assembly were pretty good, but maybe not perfect. You will need to read through them a few times before you start putting things together. The hardest part of the assembly was the wood finishing (about three days), followed by installing/soldering the shielding and electronics (a couple of evenings). But then, I'm fanatical about neat soldering. And I've spent a couple of evenings fine-tuning the set-up.

It seems pretty durable. The tung oil finish can be scratched through (already done it) but it is easy to repair, so no big deal. Everything seems to be solid. It remains to be seen how often the truss rod will be adjusted. I would gig without a backup.

I'm going to count their Web page as part of the customer support, since that was the only problem I encountered. I couldn't seem to place an order from my NT-based machine at work-- it just wouldn't process the order. When I placed the order from my Win-98 machine at home, the Web order form wouldn't allow me to add anything from other than the bass kit page, and then mixed up the bass order so the customer service people had to call me and ask what the heck I was trying to order-- it sort of lumped everything into one item, so it looked like I was buying a $500 case.(!) But the guy who called was fine, and straightened everything out. The order was processed perfectly, and arrived before their projection.

I've been playing guitar off and on for about 20 years, but this is my first bass. If it was stolen, I would definitely get a new one. In fact, I've thought about getting a regular guitar kit to build-- it was fun. I was mostly looking at US made Fender Jazz basses, and I bought this one because it costs about half as much, for comparable features and I got the enjoyment of building it myself.

This is the build-it-yourself bass kit from Carvin. I ordered the 4-string version with active electronics. It came with an Alder body, maple neck, ebony fretboard, 2 single-coil active pickups, strings-thru-the-body bridge, and Gotoh-style tuners. The electronics have 3-band active EQ, volume, and pan controls. It has probably 21 frets.
I finished this myself, using Tung oil, and wax. It looks pretty cool, and has a nice satin sheen to it because of the wax. It looks like a high-end bass. It's shaped kind of like a Fender J-bass that's gone on a diet.

There seem to be two kinds of basses in the world... Really heavy ones that weigh a lot and sustain forever, and really light, cheap ones that can't hold a note in a bag. This bass is really light (lighter than my swamp-ash Strat), but has a lot of sustain, owing to the active pickups most likely. The sound is like a piano. The notes are clear as a bell. Another component of the sound is a cool "purring" quality which I kind of like. It would be a good fusion-type bass. It's brighter-sounding than, say, a Rick 4001. I was looking for something more gritty and evil sounding, so I started running it through my rack and put some EQ and distortion on it. Now it sounds like an evil fusion bass(which is about as intimidating as Kenny G with a tattoo). I'm not quite where I want to be yet, but it's getting better. Then again, it could be the amp. Let's just say it's a clean, nice-sounding bass, and leave it at that.
The EQ works well, accenting or subduing various frequency ranges, but it doesn't really change the character of the sound much.

I was really impressed at how this kit was put together. It came in a big box, with all of the major parts shrink-wrapped, bagged, and boxed separately. The small parts were in their own box, and they were all protected from banging into each other.
The body was perfect, and nicely machined. All corners were nice and sharp, and every drill hole was in place. The neck was fairly nice, but there was a little bit of wood missing from the bottom corner of the neck heel. It looked as if the neck was made from the outside of a maple log, and they cut too close or something. It doesn't matter, because it's a very small flaw that doesn't affect the sound and it's not visible on the finished guitar anyway. There was evidence of splintering on one of the tuner holes. I thought there would be chrome washers on the tuners to cover it up when I put them on, but there weren't. Bummer. The fretboard and frets were flawless.
As far as the paint job, I did it myself, and it looks great for Tung oil. The parts were all put on correctly too, by me.
The nut was cut to the right height. All I had to do was adjust the truss rod, set the string height, and adjust the pickups.
Overall, it's a good-looking, well-made bass.

I can see using this bass for a long time. I would gig without a backup. As thin as the neck is, I can see having to adjust the truss rod fairly often. The finish is going to last a long time, I'm sure. It's soaked into the body so it's not going to wear off.

Carvin needs to send some of their customer support people to charm school... The guy I talked to when I ordered the bass (and case) was pretty helpful. But then, I called to change my order from one case to another case, and got a major runaround. They wanted to know who took my initial order. I told them, and they told me I would have to talk to him about it. He wasn't there, so they told me to call back later in the week when he was at work (Like I care! I just want to change my order and I'm not married to the guy who took my initial order). I called back at the prescribed time, and tried to connect with this guy. He was on the phone, and I ended up in the lap of a manager. This guy was surly and not exactly the brightest bulb on the tree. He got all testy when he couldn't locate my order (All he knew at this point was my first name). I offered my invoice number, and he acted like I was some kind of idiot for not telling him sooner. Manager guy, you know who you are. If it was possible to reach through a phone line and bitch-slap someone, I'm sure it would have happened to you several times, and your phone manners would be better than they currently are.

I've been playing guitar for 23 years. I play bass too, and have for just about as long. This is a good overall value. I like the looks, the playability, and the sound of this bass. I would probably buy it again, but I would not look forward to talking to Carvin again.