Yamaha BBEast Signature 5

Electric Fretted 6-String Bass

Made by Yamaha

Description Nathan East Signature Series. Alder w/ figured Maple cap. Ebony Fretboard. Abalony Block (seg) Inlays. 5-Control active system. Gold hardware. Amber Burst.
Posted By Edwin Ormeo (2349)
Directory Equipment: Basses
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Overall Rating: 5.0 (of 5)
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Member Reviews


On 3/27/2003, Edwin Ormeo (2349) posted:
Overall Rating:
The BBEast is very hard to find. Especially this particular model. MSPR: $3200.00. And someone said, owning this Bass does not make you a Nathan East. So, if you have the $$$ and the knack for quality sound and construction or just a collector, I recommend this bass. All else, stick to your budget. Again, this is a very HIGH-END instrument. Overall, the BBEast is near perfection (99.9%) the remaining 1% is the PRICE!
Price: $1000.00
Where Obtained: 2nd Party Owner
Features:
It comes in Alder w/ figured Maple cap (top), Neck is maple bolt-on, Ebony Fretboard w/ Abalony block style Inlays (actually its segmented), comes in Gold Harware (Solid Brass, Gold Plated), Controls: (5) Master Volume, pan, bass cut/boost, treble cut/boost, user definable mid range (Custom 3-band EQ-completely tweekable user settings), at 34" Scale (rumor that Nathan's a 36")
Playability:
This guitar is absolutely flawless (when you get used to it). The neck is a bit wide, but less 'C' shape so you don't have to worry about cuffing. The ebony fretboard makes the action smoother. But again, once you get used to it, you'd never go back. Some complain about the weight...I use a 3" strap, so it feels fine to me.
Sound Quality:
I use a SansAmp D.I. (just for direct box), the BBEast has a wide range of tonal effects as is. I play gospel to funk, fusion, pop, jazz, rock, country...etc... no fretbuzzes at all. The BB is very versatile. You don't need a lot of effect or maybe get a BOSS CEB-3 for chorus and thats it. Tonally superb all around. Studio, live or just jammin'. The tonal versatility, and the 3 position Midrange contol, with user tweakable settings, facilitates fast and repeatable presets.
Durability:
Not a whole lot of maintenance required. The BB is a HIGH-END Bass. This is quality workmanship. Close to perfection. Although Ebony Fretboards tends to crack and deteriorate faster than other woods, I suggest use Gibson Luthiers Choice for protection. Do it in between string changes, and let it sit for 10-15 mins. And please do not stick this axe in a gigbag. Get a good quality case that incorps a humidifier and perservatives. Protect your investments.