(SOLD) Yamaha Super Bass SB-500 Brown 1977
Yamaha SB500 Super Bass, brown finish, made in Japan in 1977. These Super Bass models have got to be some of the most underrated vintage basses going around. It's a little bit Jazz Bass-ish, but with a slightly wonky shape that lends it a unique aesthetic. The body is made from nato, a relative of spruce, and between the nato, the high-mass bridge and a chunky maple neck, this has an incredible amount of growl and punch. It's similar to a Fender J, but with a stack of extra midrange and attack. The neck is slightly thicker than a regular P, but it's nicely shaped and very comfy. The build quality on these 70s Yamahas is outstanding; this will put many more collectable and more expensive basses to shame for both feel and tone. The mocha-brown finish has a certain dirty-70s charm, it's certainly the product of a bygone era. If you want something a bit different with a truckload of tone, this will surely get some booties shaking.
Model: Yamaha Super Bass SB-500
Made: 1977, Japan, Matsumoku plant (serial 002050)
Finish: brown (BR), 3-ply black guard
Body: nato, 2-piece
Neck: maple, 1-piece, dot inlays
Mods: none
Pickup: original Yamaha 8-pole J-style pickups
Case: cool original Yamaha-branded faux-leather gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. There's quite a few small marks around the place, but nothing nasty. The front has some dings on the shoulder carve, above the bridge, near the knobs and on the top horn. There's some scratches and scuffs on the sides; most notably near the near strap pin, around the rounded shoulder carve and around from the knobs. There's a couple of dents on the back too. Overall: good condition (7/10).
Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. Frets are pretty even with plenty of height, 7/10 for life left. All electrics tested and working properly. Set up with fresh 45/105s.