(ARCHIVE) Tempo Hollow Body Bass Sunburst c1965
- Description
- Guitarchives
Tempo hollow bass, made in Japan mid 60s, sunburst. This is an oddity, but it's a lot of fun. Tempo was a 'stencil brand' it seems; commissioned by a store or chain of stores and made in one of the Japanese factories with a custom brand on it. This is nicely put together and in good shape, it feels sturdy in the hands. The big wide pickups and semi-hollow body combine for a mellow, warm tone with a nice dose of spank and punch. The burst finish looks awesome with a few decades on the clock; it's got a log of swagger. If you're after a mellow, tasty bass with a bit of character, this will surely tick the box.
Model: Tempo Hollow Body Bass, exact model number unknown
Made: Japan, most likely Matsumoku plant, mid 1960s
Finish: sunburst
Body: laminate maple, thinline, fully hollow
Weight: 2.840kg
Neck: maple/luan 3-piece neck, rosewood board, 12" radius, 30.5" scale
Mods: none
Pickups: original Univox single coils
Case: none
Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. Headstock has some chips on the end, back and near the truss cover, plus the original brand logo has come off the headstock. Neck is pretty clean, minor dimples on the back only. The back has widespread light scuffs and surface scratches, no major marks. Sides have scuffs and dimples around the whole body, no major marks though. The front has widespread dimples and scuffs and some play scratches around the strings, mp major marks. Overall: very good condition (7.5/10)
Playing condition notes: action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. Frets have some minor wear but are looking pretty good, 7/10 for life left. Set up with 45/105s.
This listing is an archived entry. We love to look back and remember fondly what characters we've had through the store, so we keep them around for reference.