Bass Gear

After previewing it at the NAMM Show earlier this year, Markbass has revealed the full details of the Mark Vintage Pre. A big part of the pedal’s creation came from a suggestion by Marcus Miller, who was looking for a compact recording unit.

Thundercat’s bass is as unique as his playing, so this week we’re taking a look at his signature model from Ibanez. The massive six-string hollow body is made in the company’s Japanese custom shop with curly maple for the back and sides and quilted maple for its top.

Bergantino Amplification has once again expanded their Forté line of bass amps with a new model. The 800-watt Forté D builds upon the original version with the company’s Big Fat Tube (BFT) technology.

AC/DC is back with a new album, complete with the classic lineup anchored by bassist Cliff Williams. Now, Ernie Ball Music Man is helping Williams celebrate with a limited-edition bass bearing his name.

Calton Cases has teamed up with Gibson to create a Gibson Signature Series of guitar cases. The lineup includes custom cases made in Austin, Texas for all of Gibson’s basses through history.

Empress Effects has expanded its lineup of compressors with two new models. While their flagship model has been revamped to include a “tilt” tone EQ control and selectable side chain, the new bass model has been retooled for us low-enders.

Master luthier Gerald Marleaux is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Marleaux Basses this year, and he continues to experiment and dream up new instruments. This week we’re checking out the MBass Big Hollow 5-String Fretless.

Aluminati Guitar Co. has expanded its line of aluminum instrument parts with a new set of bass necks. The Andromeda Aluminum Bass Necks are built with a combination of aerospace-grade aluminum and carbon fiber with a “familiar weight and feel.”

Spector is launching a new line of instruments called the NS Pulse Series, and they’re kicking off the range with the NS Pulse. The bass features their flagship NS body shape and is described as representing the core of Spector’s iconic design.

Many entry-level basses are built in factories in Indonesia, but the country also has plenty of highly skilled luthiers. This week we’re checking out the Odieng Red Viper 5 that is absolutely decked out.

Nordstrand Audio has expanded its Power Blade pickup line with a new five-string version. The hum-canceling pickup can be used as a drop-in replacement for a P-bass.

Earlier this year, Jackson Guitars and David Ellefson introduced the X Series Signature David Ellefson 30th Anniversary Concert Bass CBX V. Now they’re following it up with a four-string version, dubbed the CBX IV.