Yamaha BB800 Broad Bass, made in Japan 1978, gloss black. The Broad Bass line debuted in 1977, so this is a pretty early example. The shape is similar to P Bass, but with pointier horns like a Gibson, a funky headstock and pickguard and a hefty high mass bridge. The tone is awesome: there's a big, wide, fat midrange that sits really nicely in a mix and warms everything up beautifully. The attack is punchy and the low end is rounded, gooey and satisfying... this bass sounds huge. The neck has plenty of play on the clock and feels all the better for it; it's a moderately chunky P-style profile that's instantly familiar and feels like home fast. The black on black diminishes the oddness of the shape a little and lends the look a certain no-fuss class; it's a cool looking thing. You really can't go wrong with an iconic vintage Yamaha like this, history will surely be kind to them and this just oozes attitude.

Model: Yamaha BB800 Broad Bass
Made: Japan, 1978 (serial 002377)
Finish: black, gloss poly
Body: alder
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 10" radius, 34" scale
weight: 4.420kg
Mods: none
Pickup: Yamaha BB split single coil
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. Headstock has some minor marks on the end and edges. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has widespread light scuffs and surface scratches, no major marks. The sides have a number of dimples and scuffs around the whole body, no major marks. The front has no major marks, but there's a bunch of light scuffs around the body, dimples in the elbow area and play wear on the guard and horn. 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 normal wear, there's the start of some pitting but they're pretty even with no major buzz issues, 6/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 45/105 strings.