Bass of the Week: Geist Custom Instruments Phantom BF5
This week we’re checking out the Phantom BF5 by the Brooklyn-based guitar company Geist Custom Instruments. Luthier Tim Gospodinov writes on the company website that he “enjoys experimenting with tonal characteristics of different shapes and materials, and is encouraged by the wider adoption of more ergonomic, precise, and innovative instruments.” That’s pretty clear from this bass.
The hand-crafted five-string axe features a multi-scale neck with a 35-inch B-string and a 34-inch G-string. He also opted for some unique wood choices with an espave body and a mango top. Its three-piece black walnut and rock maple neck is fitted with an ebony fretboard. A paua abalone “G” logo is inlaid at the 12th fret, while the Geist logo inlaid in the headstock is aluminum. Electronics include a pair of Fishman Fluence pickups with a 2-band EQ and mini-switch for different voicings.
Geist Custom Instruments Phantom BF5 Bass Specs:
| Scale: | Multiscale 34″-35″ |
| Body: | Espave |
| Top: | Mango |
| Headstock: | Mango with Aluminum logo inlay |
| Neck: | Three piece Black Walnut and Rock Maple with KTS Titanium Reinforcement rods |
| Truss Rod: | Low-Profile Double action |
| Fingerboard: | Ebony |
| Frets: | Stainless Steel |
| Inlays: | Paua Abalone position markers and inlays |
| Pickups: | Fishman Fluence |
| Electronics: | Fishman |
| Bridge: | HipShot Solo Bridges both top loading and thru-body |
| Tuners: | HipShot Ultra-lite Locking Tuners |
| Other: | Magnetic Control and Battery covers, Pure Tone Full-contact Output Jack |
What a beauty!