Product: Yamaha BB3000MA
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted
03/09/2007
at
07:55am
by
Fat Man Dancing
Features
:
8
Made in Japan, 21 jumbo frets, Neck-thru body construction, two passive Alnico pickups in PJ configuration, factory installed Hipshot D-Tuner, Classic BB body style with slightly deeper cutaways, Distinctive Chili Pepper inlays, 1 volume knob, 1 tone knob, 3-way pickup selector toggle switch, Satin finish over entire body (including back of neck), ebony fingerboard. A hard case, matching chili pepper strap (very comfortable), cable, tools, Van Halen picks, tools, owners manual and a certificate of authenticity signed by Michael Anthony were included - a great package.
Sound
:
8
The quality of tone is quite remarkable, astonishing for passive pickups. The bass begs to be slapped and popped and has even output volume from lows - mids - highs. The bass has a clear, full and warm sound, with a moderate range of tone control. The simplicity of the controls is great for stage work, but not being able to blend the pickups is a drawback for studio work. I have noticed that the bridge pickup will pick up electronic noise from my amp's speaker if it is facing the amp and played within a few feet of the speaker.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
I bought this as a factory refurb and it had almost invisible finish blemishes on the back of the body - it would have taken weeks to notice had I not been searching for the "flaw." Otherwise, from the factory, this bass was almost flawless. I made a very slight adjustment to the pickup height to match my personal preferences. The action was low and agile, but no fret buzzing. The frets are beutifully dressed - no snags. NO loose hardward, misalignments, rust. The bass is remarkably well constructed.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
From all indications, solidity is the primary concern of the design and construction of this instrument. I expect it to last at least 20 years, maybe more, in prime condition.
Customer Support
:
No Opinion
No repairs required so far. 1 year warranty, but I would expect a longer warranty for an instrument with a retail price of $3299.00.
Overall Rating
:
9
Having played for 18 years, I have owned a LOT of basses, including Steinbergers, a Kubicki Ex-Factor, Carvins, Fenders, Ibanez, Yamahas, Peaveys, and a host of others, this bass rates on par with any bass I've owned.
