(SOLD) Yamaha PB400R Pulser Bass Blue Burst 1986
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!