Basses

Caparison Guitars has announced a new bass model called the Brocken 5-BASS, a five-string and 27 fret instrument they say is the most comprehensive bass they’ve ever developed.

Cort Guitars has added to their Artisan series with the A5 Plus SC. The new bass carries many of the same features of the A5 Plus SCMS but has a standard 34-inch scale instead of a multi-scale design.

Aria Guitars is paying homage to the classics this year with their Hot Rod Collection, which includes the Aria Pro II 313-MK2 “Detroit” bass. Unveiled at the Winter NAMM Show, the bass comes in four and five-string versions.

Kala expanded its lineup of U-Basses with two new entry-level models called the Nomad and the Scout. The ukulele-sized basses feature little to no-frills while retaining the U-Bass feel and sound.

Headless bass designs were a big theme at the 2020 Winter NAMM Show, and Ibanez got in on the action with their new EHB series. The models have a new, specially designed body that maintains its playing position whether you’re sitting or standing.

Reverend Guitars and Mike Watt have teamed up to refine the bassist’s signature bass, dubbed the Wattplower. The new Wattplower Mark II features many of the original’s design concepts while adding a new pickup configuration.

Judas Priest turns 50 this year, and Spector is helping bassist Ian Hill celebrate by updating his signature Euro4 bass. Hill, who is the only member to stay in the band its entire existence, worked with the company on some new specifications.

Yamaha unveiled the next generation of their Silent Bass series of electric upright basses at the 2020 Winter NAMM Show. The new SLB300SK continues the range’s familiar feel of acoustic double bass but has an important update in its tonal qualities.

G&L Guitars is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its flagship bass model, the L-2000, which was designed by Leo Fender in the company’s early days. To commemorate the occasion, they’ve unveiled a Ruby Anniversary Custom Shop L-2000.

Another one of the exciting developments at the 2020 Winter NAMM Show was the introduction of Ashdown’s range of bass guitars. The four new models are a collaboration with Dan Lakin, formerly of Lakland Guitars and currently of D. Lakin Guitars.

After revealing a prototype at last year’s NAMM Show, Nordstrand Audio has announced a production version of the Acinonyx short-scale bass. Nicknamed the “Cat Bass,” the bass takes its aesthetics from the classic Goya Panther.

Taylor has expanded its GS Mini line with a new bass model. The GS Mini-e Koa Bass sports the same scaled-down body and string length as its maple predecessor, with some new features.