Jens Ritter’s New Beker Bass Channels Pirate Legend and Punk Spirit
Jens Ritter has added a new model to his boutique lineup with the Beker, a bass inspired by the German pirate Klaus Störtebeker. The design includes sharp contrasts that reflect the swashbuckler’s legacy.
“The story of Klaus Störtebeker has fascinated generations: pirate, rebel, and symbol of freedom. Legend says that after his execution, his headless body walked past eleven captured members of his crew, securing their freedom,” Ritter explains. “Two pirate sabres became the starting point for this new model, their sweeping lines forming its silhouette. The Jolly Roger and eleven silver circles carry the legend forward, while the light blue recalls the sea and an endless open sky. And somewhere between old pirate mythology and the rebellious spirit of German punk culture, the Beker was born. A tribute to those who choose freedom over conformity.”
Hear about it from Ritter:
The Beker features a 33.3-inch scale with an alder body, a maple neck, and an ebony fretboard. For electronics, Ritter opted for a pair of Häussel BassBars with passive electronics. Its controls include Volume, Balance, and Tone knobs. Hardware includes a Ritter 3D bridge, Ritter BT tuners made by Gotoh, a bone nut, and Dunlop straplocks.
The Jens Ritter Instruments Beker Bass is part of the Masterpiece series. For pricing and more info, contact Ritter Instruments.
Jens Ritter Instruments Beker Bass Photos:
Jens Ritter Instruments Beker Bass Specs:
| Scale: | 33.3″ |
| Body: | Alder |
| Neck: | 3-piece Maple |
| Fingerboard: | Black Ebony |
| Frets: | 21 |
| Inlays: | Jolly Roger & the 11 Survivors (solid silver) |
| Pickups: | Häussel BassBars |
| Electronics: | Passive |
| Bridge: | Ritter 3D with B1 String Attachment |
| Tuners: | Ritter BT - Custom by Gotoh |
| Finish: | Transparent High Gloss - handpolished |
| Orientation: | Right-Hand Only |
In his time with No Treble, Kevin has met hundreds of amazing bassists and interviewed icons like Jack Casady, Victor Wooten, Les Claypool, Marcus Miller, and more. He's a gigging bassist performing jazz in Northern Virginia and bluegrass with The Plate Scrapers up and down the East Coast. Kevin appreciates all genres of music, from R&B to metal and everything in between. Connect with Kevin on Facebook and check his performance schedule on his website.
