(SOLD) Yamaha Billy Sheehan Attitude Special Bass Black 1994
Yamaha Bill Sheehan Attitude Special, made in Taiwan 1994, black. I love this, it's a1 very cool bass indeed. Mr Sheehan made his name playing for Mr Big, among others; he's a giant of the rock bass world and a noted tonelord. This was the fairly short-lived version of his signature 'Attitude' bass. These were made for a couple of years out of Taiwan and sold at a less eye-watering price than the MIJ models, while still featuring some classic Billy appointments. The neck is fairly slim with a 40mm nut; slightly bigger than a vintage style Jazz Bass but not as big as a traditional P. It's very slick in the hands; the satin finish and 12" radius make it pretty shred-friendly. The body is light and lively but still well balanced against the neck; there's no 'dive' to speak of. The pickup combo and electronics is unique: you get a standard P pickup with it's own volume knob but no tone knob, as well as the signature big passive HB in the neck, which also has a seperate volume as well as a tone control. Basically, you can start off with a juicy, growling P-style tone, then use the neck pickup to dial in a whole world of extra fatness and low-end heft. It's a glorious time. The tuxedo aesthetic pairs nicely with the maple board, with the quirky inlays and yellowed plastics it's a very cool look. Uncle Billy knows what's best, folks!
Model: Yamaha ATT-SPL
Made: Taiwan, 1994 (serial KM07177)
Finish: black, 3-ply white guard
Body: alder
Neck: maple, 1-piece, 34" scale, 12" radius
Weight: 4.130kg
Mods: none
Pickup: split single coil and passive humbucker
Case: none
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some dimples on the end and bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples and some rub wear on the back only. The back has widespread light scuffs and some dimples on the top horn, elbow area and near the jack, nothing nasty. The sides have some dimples on the top horn and near the jack. The front has some dimples on the top horn and around the controls, as well as some standard play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: very good condition (7.5/10).
Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. Frets have very little wear, 9/10 for fret life left. All electrics tested and working properly. Set up with 45/105 D'Addario strings.