Sorry there has been a lack of content, in recent weeks - a lot to do,
at the moment.
So, inside this case. . . . . . .
. . . .is quite an unusual bass!!
The Yamaha BX-1 Headless bass, I think the only one that Yamaha ever made.
There isn't a great deal of information about these rare birds.
Very well made and a delight to play - well balanced, with a lovely neck.
Two powerful pick-ups, with a std Jazz type set-up with the controls but. . . .
with a difference.
There is a switch on the tone control, which selects Humbucker or single coils,
on both pick-ups, at the same time.
So, you can go from a hard rocking thump to something a bit more funky.
I looked for one of these for ages - and I mean ages!
I have only had it for about 3 years and in that time, I haven't seen another
one up for sale, in the UK.
They are a little more common in the USA but still command a fair price, due
to their rarity.
Regular readers with know that I have had Westone Rails and still have a
Quantum, as well as a Hohner B2A (not done that one yet) but this is by far,
the better proposition.
It hangs a lot better, due to the design and therefore plays more like a
conventional bass.
The other good thing, like the Westone, you can use standard strings and not
the double ball end, which means you can string it up with your favourite
brand and away you go!
Lovely neck joint, that blends seamlessly into the body. Nice!
Yamaha BX-1. Very Nice!
Back with more, next time.
Cheers. :)
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Latest post.
I have owned of of these for 23 years now. I bought it in 1990, original case, owners manual and tools for $500. It is still in mint condition and I love recording with it. It is probably a 1988 model.
ReplyDeleteCheers, Donny X (find me at google)
Donny, Hi. As you know, these are a bit rare. Most player know about the other basses in the same vein - Steinberger inspired but not many have even seen the Yam. Glad you like yours.
ReplyDeleteCheers. :)
Hi there, I've just bought one and was wondering about that switch tone... Is this supposed to be a push-pull pot? Mine stays lifted...
ReplyDeleteHi. Perhaps you need to investigate further. The pot/switch may be broken. Mine (and all the others, as far as I know) definately has the swithcing option. Cheers.:)
ReplyDeleteI had one. I had it for years, but I honestly don't remember where I got it or where I sold it. I regret selling it. I always loved that bass.
ReplyDelete...I have wanted to add a 2nd bass to supplement my Modulus Graphite Quantum 5, which I love. I have a funky little Riverhead headless that's fun, unusual,& easy to transport, but it lacks any upper horn for the strap, (or fiberglass fold-out like Steinbergers). Subsequently, it tends to push the fretboard away from where it's most comfortable to play. So I found a nice BX-1 on eBay, pulled the trigger & bought it! Really looking to getting it soon. Your review is encouraging that it's a pleasure to play.
ReplyDelete"HeinekenPete" from Cape Cod, MA.
Just waiting for one to come from the USA $599 + shipping $180 + duty @ 20%..........I am sure it will be worth it......been looking for a year
ReplyDeleteI have FIVE bx1 basses. Got rid of every other bass I owned, Precision, Ovation etc. Couldn't stand the weight of the large basses, the bx1 is best on the planet for me!!
ReplyDeleteYamaha company does not make anything that is sub par as the Fender units usually are just not great quality. The Yamaha BX1 stays in tune for months! My Fender lost tune every 5th song.