(SOLD) Yamaha Super Bass SB500S Matte Black 1981
Yamaha SB500 Super Bass, refinished in matte black, made in Japan in 1981. These Super Bass models are awesome, they're a quirky thing but they pack plenty of punch. The body is approximately Jazz Bass shaped, but with a big round top side, a guard more like a P bass, a chunky D-shaped neck and a groovy headstock. The chunky maple neck and high mass bridge mean heaps of natural brightness and unplugged volume, so it feels lively in the hands. The pickups have been replaced with a set of passive EMGs, which offer plenty of definition and snap balanced by the thick and juicy low end. The matte black finish has been played in, so there's plenty of rub wear around the body, but it's got a cool downtown aesthetic to it. Super indeed.
Model: Yamaha Super Bass SB500
Made: 1981, Japan, (serial 002302)
Finish: matte black, refinished
Body: nato, 2-piece
Weight: 4.280kg
Neck: maple, 1-piece w/ skunk stripe, 12" radius, 34" scale
Mods: none
Pickup: EMG passive single coil x2
Case: none
Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. The headstock has some minor marks on the end and edges, some dimples on the back, plus the tuner buttons have been painted black. The neck has some wear on the edge of the board and some dimples and scuffs on the back of the neck. The neck has been refinished in satin and played-in, so there's some glossing from play too. The back has some widespread light scuffs, mostly near the neck plate and back edge. The sides have a few minor scuffs around the whole body. The front has some rub wear around the bridge and in the elbow area, as well as some standard play wear on the guard and top horn. It's worth noting the guard has been refinished too. The bridge is lifting slightly at the back, but it's perfectly functional. Overall: good condition (7/10).
Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. The frets have some normal wear, they're pretty even with no major buzz issues, 7/10 for fret life left. All electrics tested and working properly. Set up with fresh 45/105 Moonshiners strings.