Yamaha PB400R bass, made in Japan 1986, blue burst finish. It's no secret that Topshelf loves vintage Yamaha stuff... and we've got good reason: it's exceptionally good. This little legend is a PB400R, the 80s update on Yamaha's curiously named 'Pulser Bass'; their take on the classic P-bass. It's got the specs to easily take it to the high-end MIJ Fenders: sen ash body, spiral saddle bridge, deluxe reverse tuners... it's a classy thing. The Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound pickup is a highlight: it gleefully doles out stacks of warmth, roundness, attack and punch; it's a great pickup. This really does have a killer hot-P tone: heaps of definition, fat lows, creamy mids... it's all class. It's pretty easy to 'spot the decade' going by the finish; what other period could produce such a beast? The blue/teal burst extends all the way up the neck and headstock, it's a sleek look that'd be at home on the set of the 80s classic sci-fi film TRON. The best thing about this is the feel: it's built with all the care and attention these vintage Yamahas are renowned for, and you can absolutely feel the love that went into it. In short: this rules.

Model: Yamaha Pulser Bass PB-400R
Made: Japan, 1986 (best estimate, serial 4P18060)
Finish: blue burst with matching neck & headstock, 3-ply black guard
Body: sen ash
Neck: maple with rosewood board, dot inlays
Mods: none
Pickup: Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound P-Bass
Case: generic padded gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. There's a dent on the top horn that's noteworthy, aside from that it's all pretty minor. The back has a bit of 'buckle rash' and a couple of dings, the front has some scratching from play, there's a few knocks around the sides and the end of the headstock has some marks. Nothing to really be concerned about. 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 but there's plenty of height in them, 7/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 45/105s, plays great!