Love everything about this video! The BB-735 is my number one for basses I WILL buy one day. I currently own a BB-615 and it is a hidden gem that can be bought for an amazing price when you find a used one. Huge respect for including the 415 in the video. They don't get as much love as they deserve.
I own the 735a (and a 734 a). Excellent 5Stringer. No Problems here with the BString. Might be your Set of strings. Compared to other 5rs, there is no big difference from the B to the the other 4 strings in tone , clarity or tension. You forgot to mention that the Yamaha PJs sound best compared to other competitors when both PUs are activated and that´s the point IMO. In that category, the Yammies beat every fender, especially in that price region. This is a perfect 5er for everyone who looks for a 18 mm string spacing for the right hand, but a slightly more narrow spacing at the nut. Besides that, the preamp is very musical and never too harsh. No matter how it´s set, it always sounds usable (and good to my ears). Thanx for the review Lobster!
Thank you Alexander! Great comment and thank you for sharing :), I do use the same gauge and type of strings in all my reviews to keep things constant, but from what you and others have said - this bass might like fatter B strings a bit more.
@@LowEndLobster My 735a shipped with the wedge side up for the B string, and it sounded quite dead until I actually tried flipping it around to the round side. For whatever reason, it works better (with LaBella Low-Tension Flats).
I personally use Ernie ball cobalts for all my basses, and the flats for my fretless. I bet those would be an excellent choice. I am unfamiliar with the strings you use there LEL.
I love mine. It is dead stable as mentioned, doesn't lose a ton of volume when switched to passive, and actually gives me a usable drop A on the top string.
Great comment - I’ve been thinking about picking this up for one of my metal bands as both of my 5s would cost me more than a paycheck to replace and I want something I don’t have to worry about as much, but one band does tune down a step so I was wondering how these handled that. Thanks!
The Yamaha sound is there, very precise and straight, modern tone, you love it or not but i think every bassist need one in their arsenal, mostly for studio work. Great review.
I love Yamaha Basses. My First Yamaha was a TRBX 174, a beginner instrument but pretty solid. Nowadays I got a Yamaha Attitude Custom from 1990. I was extremely lucky to find it! It has a Dimarzio precision pickup, a Dimarzio woofer pickup under the pickguard and a piezo at the bridge! I'm never going to get rid of it! I wish Yamaha made more versions of the Attitude like they did in the 90's. Yamaha is pretty solid and I feel right at home with their basses.
@@trashacademy It's a solid bass for beginners. I have zero complaints about it. The neck was smooth, the frets were well done, the colour was truly beautiful, super comfortable and lightweight as well.
I thought the active mode added a nice polish to an already great sounding bass. However, I do agree, the older four strings, even if they are passive, made the BB line what they are. There are people that swear by Yamaha and only Yamaha, because of the BB.
I started looking into the Yamaha line after discovering Casiopea and Tetsuo Sakurai. This line has blown me away, as I wasn't really drawn in by the Fender style of PJ Bass, but I loved the sound and style of these models! It's impressive to see them improve the 414 model after all these years.
This one was straight up $4k USD new (they're a 3k USD bass normally), but I think I would have paid up for this one (had I the cash and it was time for me to buy an Attitude finally)...there's also an original one on ebay for about 1k USD that has a real nice look to it - I'm assuming its the original model because it only has a 4 bolt joint and there's a plate. ua-cam.com/video/mXuLO2DCOn0/v-deo.html
Indeed, build quality here was definitely top notch. Wasn't crazy about the electronics, but those can be changed. However, these BBs are definitely a solid foundation
Got me the 734a a few years ago and love it. Have also BB434, 424X and TRBX504 they're all great.And the BB424/5 were the last model of the original BB design, later in 2017 came the new BB line up.
Thanks Savana! Indeed, didn't realize that they had another in the 42X series. Those are elusive on the used market as well, much harder to come by vs the 41X
I have a BB434 and it seems very solid. I will probably add some nice Nordstrand or Aguilar noiseless pickups. The fretwork on the 434 is very impressive. The fretboard is subtly rolled as well. The last couple of MIM Fender basses I've owned had string alignment issues and felt more like Fender were seeing what they could get away with for the price. Yamaha turned out a higher quality instrument for the same price.
I have the 734 and a 735, both are brilliant to play, I changed the J pup for a Dimarzio DP148, not much difference sound wise, but with the added bones of NO HUM ! Change the strings to LA BELLA RX and the B will sing for you. Hope this helps others out there.
I agree when you said the P pickup on the 414 sounded better, I thought the same thing when I was listening to the comparison. Back in 2008 i flew to Israel to play some gigs, instead of travelling with a bass, a bass was rented (or borrowed not sure) for me, it was the 5 string active version of your BB414, a BB615 I believe. I thought it was a decent instrument that sounded and played pretty good, and I don't remember having any issues with the B-String. Perhaps if you tried a .130 B string on the BB735A it might be better, I use .130 B-Strings on my basses and I have found them to sound fuller and have better definition.
Good review video,however there are 2 things I would point out that wasn't demo'd in the video. The bridge saddles have 2 sides,smooth and sharp. (They can be turned around and set to your sound prefefence) This feature greatly enhances the dynamics of the notes played,especially with the B string. I believe this is why you didn't like the b string as much. Second point, IMO, nickel plated strings don't sound clear enough on 5 string model basses. Especially on the b string. The frets on this bass are stainless steel as well,which wasn't mentioned also. All in all,I have to agree on the single coil though. A hum canceling one would've been clutch.
Great review - as usual. I've had a soft spot for the Yamaha BB basses for ever, and owned and sold at least a dozen of them through the years. The nice thing about the newer BB series basses is that the pickup sizes are no longer proprietary, which means you can buy after market pickups and use them. Yamaha QC is always some of the very best in the industry - regardless of the price point. Thank you Mr. LowEndLobster.
I have seen first hand what happens at Yamaha's QC and good enough is not good enough .. . The amount of stuff that goes into the reject container is crazy and I would love to dive into one just for parts but that is strictly forbidden.
Thanks for the review. I love my BB734A, and it's one of my go-to basses despite having a collection with a bunch of more expensive instruments. It sounds so good to me, especially in rock settings. I put a set of DR Black Beauties and it roars while looking super-slick in blacked-out fashion. I notice no noise on mine and personally really like the preamp, finding it quite responsive with a good tonal range and super-smooth high-quality controls. It also comes with a very nice gig bag, strap locks, etc.
I fell in love for the BBs and their sound right when I became a Casiopea fan about a decade ago. They're great basses. By the way, 414 is my answer. I prefere the passive sound on these basses, even though they sound quite similar.
I like everything about the old one. The chrome pickup covers are so cool, and active basses just aren't my thing. Tony Kanal is one of the big reasons I learned bass so I've always had a special place in my heart for the older BBs.
I have a BB1600, the same one Kanal started on if I’m not mistaken, and this bass is just oozing with mojo. Nothing I’ve ever played sounds quite like it.
In the past I owned a 1025X, loved everything about it minus the weight.. really hefty bass. Fast forward to today, just purchased a 414 which is currently at the luthier’s for adjustments. I have to say, I was so impressed with the feather-like weight. It’s the perfect weight for a bass! 😳
I owned both a BB 415 (on two occasions) and the active counterpart that bass and I agree with you that I prefer the older model for tone. It was a simple set up as you pointed out but it just sounded good; the active model did not sound as good to my ear. I am currently playing a TRBX305 and I have to say that I am impressed with how much bass that it for the money.
Hi 🦞 I actually ending up buying the BB735 coffee and I tell ya what it's an amazing bass with a great sound. My B string kicks ass . On mine the actual saddle on the B string was installed upside down , and I didn't notice it at first. Lol I love this bass. It's a 5 outta 5 for me.❤ Can you review a TRB 1005 one day? Cheers . Keep up the good work!
I know this is an old comment, but I just want to point out that the bridge is "reversible". It's supposed to be installed that way from factory. Round side for softer sound and the pointy side a tighter tone. All of the saddles can be turned around if you want.
Have to admit, I wasn't a fan of the look of the BBs *until* I saw one in person, it really hits different when you can see the light reflecting off it. My band's drummer got one for his birthday and we had a chance to try it out at our last practice when our bassist didn't have his Jaguar with him. Thing sounded awesome, and when I tried it out, it just felt great under the fingers. Not sure now whether I want a BB or a TRBX more.
Nine minutes in, I’ve decided that I prefer the sound of the orange four string. Back in the day I owned a Japanese BB3000MA Michael Anthony signature. It was the nicest P Bass I’ve ever experienced. I sold it for aesthetic reasons. I couldn’t get past the chili pepper inlays. I should have kept it as they are quite rare and valuable these days.
I own the BB735. My bandmates beg me not to sell it because they all love the tone. I like it a lot, but it really shines in a band context. I use my Fenders for practicing alone at home but always carry the BB to jam sessions or live shows. The most versatile bass I ever had. The B is flappy, but sound really good, wayyy better than Fender Low Bs. I use .135 Elixir so its not so bad now. Best bang for the buck bass I ever had. I agree the pickups on the 414 are hotter and more vintage. But the 735 has a preamp to make up for it in a more modern fashion. Just dont expect 60s Pbass exact tone with the 735
@@illadeligut yeah since ive put low riders on my jazz bass I cant go back to anything else. NYXL ‘s are great too though. I think they might be too soft (low tension) for a BB735 though. But id love to try it! Give me some news if you do!
Oooooh, perfect! Haven't watched this yet, but this is exactly the bass I was looking into these past two weeks! Well, BB735 vs BB435 vs BBP35 that is.
Thanks paulpaul. Others have recommended using a fatter B (I use .125) to fix what I experienced. I use the same type of string for every review to keep it constant and based on what I used, it was turrible. That being said, I only tested in one scenario with one type of string. I appreciate you sharing!
Thank you for the review. I own a BB734A and i absolutely love it. I have to admit I never noticed any hum on the J pickup, but it's also true that I usually play it with both pickups on, which is where it really delivers a wonderful tone. It's obviously your review, but I think 3/5 could be a bit low for this basses.
Thanks Stefanos! The ratings are just my opinion, but I hope people definitely form their own opinions based off the sound clips and their own experiences. I just share my two cents :)
@@stefanos80 Indeed! My ratings are not really comparable between basses and are an overall statement on how I feel about them based on numerous factors such as price, perceived quality, feel, tone, flexibility/versatility. 3/5 is an average (not bad) rating, 4/5 is above average and 5/5 is a near-perfect instrument (all are my opinion). In my opinion the $83 Glarry is an immense value for $83, where the Yamaha I review here is an average value. I'm not saying an $83 Glarry is better than this Yamaha because it's not. However, at $800 I personally think the Yamaha is an average value.
0:00 looking forward to hearing these - every one I've heard with the slug pickups has been sweet, responsive, thick, and articulate. Not sure why it would be changed, but there's always a lot of brand refocusing going on in the mid-tiers...
3:50 I've been designing a platform qualification setup - yep, instruments can be characterized on their physical qualities and attributes with ZERO signal chain in the way of determining (it's even easier to test stuff like neck flex because strain gauges are cheap, kind of like pre-gummed stamps, yes, multiaxis lol) what the actual properties of the thing is. I hate guessing - it's not very consistently reproducible.
7:00 yeah the new guy is sounding like a Yamaha bass should so they're dialing in their tones on the new electronics fairly well...it's hard to compare the old with the new because they're completely different electronics in the platforms. All serviceable as fuck, no problems.
10:35 speaking of comfort, be cool to see a comparison between someone like Michael Anthony's sig models, Yamaha and Schecter - actually a fun lark would be to review the set of instruments people have had sig models or used in their careers, little history/little fun. Like check out all versions of Billy Sheehan's Attitude! A/B/C/etc :-)
The weird thing for me is I just bought the 734a and the jazz pick up is totally hum free. Very pleasant bass to play and that active switch blows me away,
Bro, you knocked it out of the park as usual! Another great review video. I’m loving the Tribe so far and am really impressed with the MJC strings, I gotta say. They’re special. Also...how am I JUST NOW noticing the bass clef claws in your logo??
Thanks Chris! So glad you're enjoying it :). Yes! The original logo didn't have any of that, but a viewer made me a new one halfway through last year and it has those subtle touches :)
I’ve been really fighting the urge to get a 734a recently because I want to put the Les Claypool signature EMG’s in it. I’ve already got a BB1600 and I just love it. Thanks for the review.
Thanks for another honest and thorough review, love the effortless playing too. I was thinking of getting one of the 4 string BB734A's as I heard the eq system was really good for recording, I might think again and check out some of your other reviews. Shame Yamaha didn't cancel the hum in some way, I really like their guitars, as a rule.
I'm a huge fan of BB series. I had two - a BBG5S and a BB 615 (similar to your 414 but a 5 with an active preamp). Both were AT LEAST very decent. I also had an opportunity to try out some older BBs from the 80s - they were awesome! I'd absolutely love a BB3000. Or a 5000A. Or, better yet, a 5000AF. I still regret not being able to buy a beautiful 5000AF in a stunning dark purple metallic (Deep Purple ;-)) several years ago. It was the only one in this colour I've ever seen and was up for grabs here in Poland. Some lucky bastard snatched it and holds on to it to this very day. As for these two - I think the 414 sounds slightly better but the 735 is really nice too. But I still think the original Japanese BBs from the 80s were the real deal. Lovely basses!
Awesome review. The Yamaha bb basses are killer sounding bass guitars. Even the lower leveled Yamaha bb basses sounds phenomenal. I own a Yamaha bb235 and it’s sounds awesome. It’s got a killer p-bass sound that’s suitable for any genre. Including metal. \m/ not to mention they sound phenomenal with effects. I highly recommend these basses and the trbx basses.
Another great review. Thanks! I have a BB235 and was considering getting a 2nd hand 435. The bridge pickup hum and the B string is what I don't like about it as well, so I assume if I got the 435 that wouldn't make me happier. Maybe and new bridge and new electronics would be a better (and more fun) route. Another thing I don't like is the neck width is so narrow but I am getting used to it.
Thanks Quincy! The neck is definitely an odd duck with the narrow spacing at the nut and the wide spacing at the bridge. Definitely takes some getting used to like you said!
Mr Lobster, some of us LIKE single coil pickups. There's no points lost in having a normal jazz bridge wind when a jazz bass only cancels exactly in the middle anyway. Doesn't everyone dial one pickup on a jazz a bit back to get the top back? There's an idea for a video.... Find a hum cancelled jazz bridge pickup that has as an open a top end as a conventional.
True, James! No points lost for J basses, absolutely. I usually mention it as some newer players may look at a bass, get it without understanding the difference, and think something is wrong because of the noise. The BEST hum cancelling J's at the 500-ish dollar bass price point were found in the Cort GB64jj. The preamp was a little bridge, but those pickups had loads of high end and 0 hum.
I have no complaints about noise or buzz on my BB734. I have Elixer strings on it and while I don't use the preamp so much it really does kick ass and will punch through anything.
I had a Yamaha BB5000, the cream color and got rid of it! THE WORST MISTAKE I EVER MADE! I see why my man Nathan East used Yamaha Basses. They have a nice warm tone. These new BB’s are pretty good! I hate the pickguard on ‘em tho. But they sound great! If they released a BB 5000 type of 5 string bass; I’ll get one in a heartbeat!😳🎶👍🏾
@@LowEndLobster Thanks! I hope so too. Even the BB3000 series are a beaut. I saw Richard Page from Mr. Mister played a 3000 fretless and that thing was ‘a la cream!’ Even tho they’re Japanese built, the quality was tops.😌🎶👍🏾
Nice review. The B string isn't as defined as the others but the .132 chromes on my 435 definitely helped. I believe the higher end TRBX series may have a more defined B
Thanks Crayon! I think the biggest difference is the blend vs 3 way toggle. IMO I never really find myself using the blend in a way where I'm not having it dead center or at the extremes, but that's just me.
Nice one Lobster. Been eyeing the 735 since it came out, like so many other players. I owned a 435 (teal) but had to let it go cause the B string was absolutely not happening. My fav mid priced Yamaha is still the TRB1005 (or J). The 35" scale, humbucking pickups and powerful onboard EQ always win. Thanks for the great review.
Two things that I've noticed here: 1. The BB 414 body looks wider than the 735A. 2. The 735A allows for pickup upgrades as the traditional BB basses did not.
Great review as always Lobster. 2 years ago was deciding between this and the Ibanez SR505e. Went with the Ibanez. Mine weighs only 8lbs. Your reviews of the DCB pickups are making me consider them for my SR. Would love to see a review from you of the SR505 if you get a chance.
This is exactly the type of review I was looking for! The only thing I would've liked was the use of the B string in context with the main lick and tone tests. It's never used in context. Only when he plays it alone after saying it wasn't the best. Otherwise thank you!
So I’ve been playing BB Basses on and off for 10+ years. I have a 1985 BB5000 MIJ that is superb, and has very similar pickups to your BB414. I’ve also owned a more recent BBP35. The BBP35 was a good bass, but lacked some of the sound that made the BB series special, as you mentioned; a lot of it had to do with the more Fender-esque pickups. They sound great, but not like a BB. The B string on the BBP35 sounded good though. The REAL problem that I’ve been seeing with Yamaha in general is that their Indonesian factory has been increasingly churning out stuff that I think is below Yamaha standards. This most recent BB series is one I’ve had some issues with, having played the BB235 briefly (and with a few different specimen) as well as several of the higher TRBX Basses. They’ve had some construction issues, and the B on those upper TRBXs was never good. That’s not the Yamaha I played for years. Stick with older BB Basses; you’ll like the B string better there, too.
I had a BB734A a few months ago. Wanted to love it as aesthetically it was perfect and the neck pickup was awesome. Unfortunately the bridge pickup just felt too weak and it was too thin to use at all for me. I sold it, and recently bought a 2005 BB414 (Orange !) and it is the sound I wish the BB734 did, it was well less than half of the price too. It might even be a keeper.
Lobster, your reviews IMO are some of the best; - honest, informative and your subjectivity is very helpful to the audience. I'd like to share my comments w/U: 1. The 414 overall has the better sound in every passive setting between the two. Could it be that the 735's electronics are putting too much of a load on its pickups (even tho's it's in a passive mode) and therefore a more compressed, less open sound than the 414? 2. ln my 40 plus years of playing bass and Fender type instruments w/single coil pickups, I've never had a sound man, recording engineer or fellow band member ever, ever complain about single-coil pickup noise or hum. Just saying, and wanted to share my experience w/that subject. 3. I picked up a BB424 (the Japanese domestic version) from Yamaha Music on the Ginza in Tokyo in 2017, - which is close to the 414 but w/added useful features like the top loaded or string-thru body bridge, a multi-wood laminated neck and the fingerboard inlays like the 414's. Really nice playing and well-balanced, too. I believe that Yamaha should stick mostly to the original concept of the BB series w/passive electronics that it collaborated w/the great Nathan East when it started to produce these basses back in the mid-1980's. Again, thank you for your presentation.
I have a modded (not by me) BB1025 with a series/parallel switch for the neck pu. This gives an extra, slightly cleaner sound and parallel does give you the extra option to be absolutely humfree while still using both pickups. I must add that I never had any hum-issues with this bass and I guess most people will prefer the sound of the the normal series switching, at least I do. But it's always good to have options ;-)
I totally agree with you - the old BB sounds much better. Nonetheless, without playing on one myself, I still think that BB is just different looking japanese P-bass with my least favourite pickup layout (PJ).
Thanks! Honestly, I'm much more of a fan of the PJ config in a modern setting (spector) vs a vintage/traditional setting like this. I want to get my hands on the Peter Hook model!
I have always been put off by the body shape. I didn't like the old design, but i wasn't aware they received such a rework in design. Maybe it'd be something to revisit.
I’d be interested in hearing your review of Yamaha’s TRBX 605FM. I’m seriously considering purchasing one of those once I sell a few things that I don’t need.
Nice review. I really loved the BB735 I played at a GC last December. Somebody else liked it too, because when I came back the next day, it had been sold. I liked the B string myself, but you spent much more time with the bass than I did. Although I have heard worse, Yamaha should employ some sort of hum canceling technology on these basses, even at the lower price levels. The must feel the overall tone is worth the hum because even their top of the line BB basses are not hum canceling.
Thank you! I agree 100%, in a PJ setup I don't really think anything is lost by employing some hum cancelling in the J. A J can be quiet with both pickups balanced, but a PJ with no noise cancelling will always be noisy and some (like myself) definitely find that unappealing. I definitely understand the character of single coils differs from their humcancelling and humbucking counterparts, but in a PJ I often find the J to be an afterthought (though to Sire's credit, the U5 does it RIGHT!).
@@LowEndLobster I think Sire may end up lighting a fire under Yamaha because PJ’s with comparable preamps, but silent bridge pickups that are also cheaper, are going to bite into Yamaha’s sales.
I´m a Yamaha guy .. You are right on the spot .. My main is the bb1024X ,- and i hate the humming singlecoile on 700 series .Pickups on the 1024x is way better sounding . But i realy like the neck on 700 series . and active preamp option . I think the 700 series is a good bass ,- but lack off characters in the sound . Well now i have severel yamaha´s - now im going for a musicman for different sound .. I watcht you reviuws on Stingray 34 .. yes ,- i go with that .. and then the Musicman sterling ,- now im not sure about that one ... Sp my next bass will be a Sterling 34 NA ... thanks for nice show . I think you're the first to not praise this bass up to the clouds, - I wonder why ?
Thank you Mougaard! I approach instruments a bit differently then most on my channel. I try to keep everything as constant as possible and let the raw tone do the talking where others may do their best to make the bass sound as good as possible via EQ, effects, modeling, etc. My thought is to look at a bass in an environment with as few variables as possible. Amp settings always the same, same type/brand/gauge of string, same environment, etc. I know the feeling of seeing something, wanting it, buying it, and expecting it to perform a certain way based on the media that I consumed, and being disappointed that I'm not getting the same result as what I saw. That's why I use my 50W Orange practice amp for all my videos because it is likely more representative of what others will experience vs a much nicer amp stack (my main rig is an Aguilar Tone Hammer 350 and Accugroove Tri112L cab)
@@LowEndLobster Yes,- in my band ( Country band) i play the BB1024 on SWR Workingman 8/10 with SWR Workingman 8004 AMP. That works very well. It´s very hard for my to try new equipment , mostly it goes bad , and im back with the same old rig . :) But i am optimistic about the Sterling by Music Man Sterling Sting Ray 34 . When the right one is in stock .. , Yes, i know .. Musicman is not for Country music .. :) shure wy not ..
15:08 the nice thing about bass strings is someone does not like the strings that are already on it they can always take them off and put a set of their favorite brand on it.
I had the Yamaha BB615 5 string and loved it. I wish I could've kept that Bass (all of them) but I was in a situation that required that I get rid of a Bass before I could get a different Bass. (Kids, what are ya gonna do ??) I played it when I was playing with a Blues Rock band and it could cut any mix. (though I always made friends with the sound man before we started to play) It was tight and full sounding.
Good review. I have learned to never use 3 coils. Noise and mud don't work for me. Other than strings and electronics, construction and quality parts have a lot to do with tone and Low B articulation. This is why some basses sound great, unplugged.
It’s probably not really fair to compare a 34” scale B string to your 35” scale Ibanez’s. 125 gauge is generally just too lightweight for a decent B on 34”.
Thanks JJ! I'll be showing some other 5 strings using the same gauge which respond better and are 34" scale. I'm going to try and snag the BB435 too and revisit the BB series
Sounds and looks great. 4 string is my bag. Again I would maybe swap the noisy pickups out for Aguilar AGDCB4PJ set or AG 4P/J HC set . Love the Matt Black look , Currently using a 1978 Fender Precision , Wanting something a bit more versatile and hence why looking at your reviews for options. Always love Stingrays as you may have gathered from previous comments. Again great in depth review . Thanks LEL.
![What's all the fuss about?! | Yamaha BB735A [Review/Demo]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/hg9GY6kDHtQ/mqdefault.jpg)
![What's all the fuss about?! | Yamaha BB735A [Review/Demo]](/img/tr.png)
![Why aren't more basses like this?! | Yamaha BB434M [Review/Demo]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/-DJGGAnSo7Y/mqdefault.jpg)
Love everything about this video! The BB-735 is my number one for basses I WILL buy one day. I currently own a BB-615 and it is a hidden gem that can be bought for an amazing price when you find a used one. Huge respect for including the 415 in the video. They don't get as much love as they deserve.
Thank you Michael! So glad you enjoyed this!
I own the 735a (and a 734 a). Excellent 5Stringer. No Problems here with the BString. Might be your Set of strings. Compared to other 5rs, there is no big difference from the B to the the other 4 strings in tone , clarity or tension. You forgot to mention that the Yamaha PJs sound best compared to other competitors when both PUs are activated and that´s the point IMO. In that category, the Yammies beat every fender, especially in that price region. This is a perfect 5er for everyone who looks for a 18 mm string spacing for the right hand, but a slightly more narrow spacing at the nut. Besides that, the preamp is very musical and never too harsh. No matter how it´s set, it always sounds usable (and good to my ears). Thanx for the review Lobster!
Thank you Alexander! Great comment and thank you for sharing :), I do use the same gauge and type of strings in all my reviews to keep things constant, but from what you and others have said - this bass might like fatter B strings a bit more.
@@LowEndLobster My 735a shipped with the wedge side up for the B string, and it sounded quite dead until I actually tried flipping it around to the round side. For whatever reason, it works better (with LaBella Low-Tension Flats).
@@renehayden3013 thank you! Great to know
I personally use Ernie ball cobalts for all my basses, and the flats for my fretless. I bet those would be an excellent choice. I am unfamiliar with the strings you use there LEL.
I got me a bb734a and I m speechless. Just amazing
I love mine. It is dead stable as mentioned, doesn't lose a ton of volume when switched to passive, and actually gives me a usable drop A on the top string.
Thanks Terry!
Great comment - I’ve been thinking about picking this up for one of my metal bands as both of my 5s would cost me more than a paycheck to replace and I want something I don’t have to worry about as much, but one band does tune down a step so I was wondering how these handled that. Thanks!
The Yamaha sound is there, very precise and straight, modern tone, you love it or not but i think every bassist need one in their arsenal, mostly for studio work. Great review.
Thanks Vince!
I love Yamaha Basses. My First Yamaha was a TRBX 174, a beginner instrument but pretty solid. Nowadays I got a Yamaha Attitude Custom from 1990. I was extremely lucky to find it! It has a Dimarzio precision pickup, a Dimarzio woofer pickup under the pickguard and a piezo at the bridge! I'm never going to get rid of it! I wish Yamaha made more versions of the Attitude like they did in the 90's. Yamaha is pretty solid and I feel right at home with their basses.
Thank you for sharing, Pedro! That attitude sounds KILLER! Hit me up on IG and send me a picture :)
How would you review the TRBX 174? Im looking to buy it and at this price range I cant find anything better.
@@trashacademy It's a solid bass for beginners. I have zero complaints about it. The neck was smooth, the frets were well done, the colour was truly beautiful, super comfortable and lightweight as well.
I'm so mad I traded in my RBX170 almost fifteen years ago. It was a really nice instrument :(
FINALLY I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR A YAMAHA VIDEO
:)
I thought the active mode added a nice polish to an already great sounding bass. However, I do agree, the older four strings, even if they are passive, made the BB line what they are. There are people that swear by Yamaha and only Yamaha, because of the BB.
Thanks Everett! Well said :)
I started looking into the Yamaha line after discovering Casiopea and Tetsuo Sakurai. This line has blown me away, as I wasn't really drawn in by the Fender style of PJ Bass, but I loved the sound and style of these models! It's impressive to see them improve the 414 model after all these years.
Thanks Lord! I really want to check out a 434 as I think that might be the 'best buy' of the Bunch. (Also want to check out a MIJ!)
Now I'm gonna need you to do a Billy Sheehan attitude bass
That'd be siiiiick.
I’ll put a vote in for that as well.
@@PushSueAside lol you priced them lately? they're half again more than a G&L custom shop ha ha ha
@@LowEndLobster Yeah I agree. I had three of them. The Attitude is pretty much the monster p bass tone. Gotta try it !
This one was straight up $4k USD new (they're a 3k USD bass normally), but I think I would have paid up for this one (had I the cash and it was time for me to buy an Attitude finally)...there's also an original one on ebay for about 1k USD that has a real nice look to it - I'm assuming its the original model because it only has a 4 bolt joint and there's a plate.
ua-cam.com/video/mXuLO2DCOn0/v-deo.html
from what I have gathered from looking at getting a new bass.. Yamaha is the brand you get if you just want a good overall bass.
Indeed, build quality here was definitely top notch. Wasn't crazy about the electronics, but those can be changed. However, these BBs are definitely a solid foundation
Got me the 734a a few years ago and love it. Have also BB434, 424X and TRBX504 they're all great.And the BB424/5 were the last model of the original BB design, later in 2017 came the new BB line up.
Thanks Savana! Indeed, didn't realize that they had another in the 42X series. Those are elusive on the used market as well, much harder to come by vs the 41X
I couln't help stopping by after I saw you own the same BB 414 as me!
Great bass, I have it since 2012, totally worth its money!
Thanks Master! Yes, that was a sweet 414 that had tones of tonal character. I really liked it
I have a 2011 BB 424. It kills! It's a tone beast, the only bass you can solo the bridge pup and still get lots of meat on the bone.
I’d love to see you review a BBP35! Yamaha’s top of the line BB before stepping into the signature series. And it’s all passive
Would love to see a BB35 review next. Always liked both basses, great info on the 735. Thanks.
Thanks Ox!
I have a BB434 and it seems very solid. I will probably add some nice Nordstrand or Aguilar noiseless pickups. The fretwork on the 434 is very impressive. The fretboard is subtly rolled as well. The last couple of MIM Fender basses I've owned had string alignment issues and felt more like Fender were seeing what they could get away with for the price. Yamaha turned out a higher quality instrument for the same price.
Thanks Al! Definitely agree in comparison to Fender. I don't know how they can be charging over a grand for MIM stuff that hasn't gotten any better.
I have the 734 and a 735, both are brilliant to play, I changed the J pup for a Dimarzio DP148, not much difference sound wise, but with the added bones of NO HUM !
Change the strings to LA BELLA RX and the B will sing for you. Hope this helps others out there.
Thanks Alec! Great comment! The DiMarzio bridge pup swap is an excellent idea. Love DiMarzio pickups!
The Nickel or Steel?
@@cayetanohuett9037 Nickel
Always loved the Yamaha sound, and in particular the BB series.
I have to say, the older 414 sounds just as good, if not better!
I love the older BB pickup rings.The BB,a true classic.
Man, those are some sweet-sounding basses. I’ve always loved the BB’s.
Thanks Rumblin Man!
Congrats on 8k subs!
The BB is a powerhouses. Its just so punchy. Nice!
Thanks Ross :)
I agree lobster. I personally prefer the sound of the old BB, but the new one looks killer
Thanks Ryan!
Wow that black BB sounds amazing!
Thanks Rob!
I agree when you said the P pickup on the 414 sounded better, I thought the same thing when I was listening to the comparison.
Back in 2008 i flew to Israel to play some gigs, instead of travelling with a bass, a bass was rented (or borrowed not sure) for me, it was the 5 string active version of your BB414, a BB615 I believe. I thought it was a decent instrument that sounded and played pretty good, and I don't remember having any issues with the B-String. Perhaps if you tried a .130 B string on the BB735A it might be better, I use .130 B-Strings on my basses and I have found them to sound fuller and have better definition.
Thanks Michael! The B string comparison using a control bass might make for some interesting content.
Good review video,however there are 2 things I would point out that wasn't demo'd in the video.
The bridge saddles have 2 sides,smooth and sharp. (They can be turned around and set to your sound prefefence)
This feature greatly enhances the dynamics of the notes played,especially with the B string. I believe this is why you didn't like the b string as much.
Second point, IMO, nickel plated strings don't sound clear enough on 5 string model basses.
Especially on the b string.
The frets on this bass are stainless steel as well,which wasn't mentioned also.
All in all,I have to agree on the single coil though. A hum canceling one would've been clutch.
Great points! I will revisit this in the future and be a little more in depth. Thank you!
Great review - as usual. I've had a soft spot for the Yamaha BB basses for ever, and owned and sold at least a dozen of them through the years. The nice thing about the newer BB series basses is that the pickup sizes are no longer proprietary, which means you can buy after market pickups and use them. Yamaha QC is always some of the very best in the industry - regardless of the price point. Thank you Mr. LowEndLobster.
Thanks Chris! Great comment
I have seen first hand what happens at Yamaha's QC and good enough is not good enough .. . The amount of stuff that goes into the reject container is crazy and I would love to dive into one just for parts but that is strictly forbidden.
I love the 735a bass it's very versatile bass. Cheers for the review...
Thanks Antony!
Thanks for the review. I love my BB734A, and it's one of my go-to basses despite having a collection with a bunch of more expensive instruments. It sounds so good to me, especially in rock settings. I put a set of DR Black Beauties and it roars while looking super-slick in blacked-out fashion. I notice no noise on mine and personally really like the preamp, finding it quite responsive with a good tonal range and super-smooth high-quality controls. It also comes with a very nice gig bag, strap locks, etc.
What is the weight of your 734?😊
Loved the older BB basses with the reversed P-Bass pickups. Wish they kept the pickups that way on the newer models.
I fell in love for the BBs and their sound right when I became a Casiopea fan about a decade ago. They're great basses.
By the way, 414 is my answer. I prefere the passive sound on these basses, even though they sound quite similar.
Thanks B@ssiCS!
I like everything about the old one. The chrome pickup covers are so cool, and active basses just aren't my thing. Tony Kanal is one of the big reasons I learned bass so I've always had a special place in my heart for the older BBs.
Thanks AMP! I agree, the older one has way more 'it'.
I have a BB1600, the same one Kanal started on if I’m not mistaken, and this bass is just oozing with mojo. Nothing I’ve ever played sounds quite like it.
In the past I owned a 1025X, loved everything about it minus the weight.. really hefty bass.
Fast forward to today, just purchased a 414 which is currently at the luthier’s for adjustments. I have to say, I was so impressed with the feather-like weight. It’s the perfect weight for a bass! 😳
Great video ! BB's are just classics !
Thanks :)
I owned both a BB 415 (on two occasions) and the active counterpart that bass and I agree with you that I prefer the older model for tone. It was a simple set up as you pointed out but it just sounded good; the active model did not sound as good to my ear. I am currently playing a TRBX305 and I have to say that I am impressed with how much bass that it for the money.
Thanks Keith! I def need to try out a TRBX soon :)
Hi 🦞
I actually ending up buying the BB735 coffee and I tell ya what it's an amazing bass with a great sound. My B string kicks ass . On mine the actual saddle on the B string was installed upside down , and I didn't notice it at first. Lol
I love this bass. It's a 5 outta 5 for me.❤
Can you review a TRB 1005 one day?
Cheers . Keep up the good work!
TRUTH
I just got a TRB1005J yesterday and love it
I know this is an old comment, but I just want to point out that the bridge is "reversible". It's supposed to be installed that way from factory. Round side for softer sound and the pointy side a tighter tone. All of the saddles can be turned around if you want.
Have to admit, I wasn't a fan of the look of the BBs *until* I saw one in person, it really hits different when you can see the light reflecting off it. My band's drummer got one for his birthday and we had a chance to try it out at our last practice when our bassist didn't have his Jaguar with him. Thing sounded awesome, and when I tried it out, it just felt great under the fingers. Not sure now whether I want a BB or a TRBX more.
Great comment. Yeah, the BB's definitely have a character and vibe all their own.
@teuast. Did you end up with a BB? I’m currently looking vintage late 70’s either SB or BB
Nine minutes in, I’ve decided that I prefer the sound of the orange four string.
Back in the day I owned a Japanese BB3000MA Michael Anthony signature. It was the nicest P Bass I’ve ever experienced.
I sold it for aesthetic reasons. I couldn’t get past the chili pepper inlays. I should have kept it as they are quite rare and valuable these days.
Thanks for sharing Lhaley! I agree about those inlays haha
Thanks for this review, I've been wondering what the newer Yamahas are like but haven't been able to test drive since the plague started.
Thanks Goby! We'll def be checking out more Yammys!
I own the BB735. My bandmates beg me not to sell it because they all love the tone. I like it a lot, but it really shines in a band context. I use my Fenders for practicing alone at home but always carry the BB to jam sessions or live shows. The most versatile bass I ever had. The B is flappy, but sound really good, wayyy better than Fender Low Bs. I use .135 Elixir so its not so bad now. Best bang for the buck bass I ever had.
I agree the pickups on the 414 are hotter and more vintage. But the 735 has a preamp to make up for it in a more modern fashion. Just dont expect 60s Pbass exact tone with the 735
Thanks JP! Great comment!
Have you tried other strings on it? I put Elixir's on my 5 recently and I've never hated a string more than them in 30 years of playing
@@illadeligut no unfortunately I sold the bass. But im saving to buy it back and put DR low riders on it. Its gonna be killer
@@lebeaujp5594 good luck man. Those are definitely better strings, my personal favorite right now are the D'Addario NYXL's
@@illadeligut yeah since ive put low riders on my jazz bass I cant go back to anything else.
NYXL ‘s are great too though. I think they might be too soft (low tension) for a BB735 though. But id love to try it! Give me some news if you do!
I'd also like to add Jack Bates (Peter Hook's son) uses several 734As on tour with Smashing Pumpkins and he's really happy with them.
Thanks BD! I really want to try the Peter Hook model
the two basses almost sound the same for me. thank you for the review.
Thanks Emma!
@@LowEndLobster you are welcome
Oooooh, perfect! Haven't watched this yet, but this is exactly the bass I was looking into these past two weeks! Well, BB735 vs BB435 vs BBP35 that is.
Thanks Timo!
Nice review! Regarding the B String: I got one of these basses and the low B string is actually very good. Just wanted to mention this....
Thanks paulpaul. Others have recommended using a fatter B (I use .125) to fix what I experienced. I use the same type of string for every review to keep it constant and based on what I used, it was turrible. That being said, I only tested in one scenario with one type of string. I appreciate you sharing!
I agree the P pickup on the old one sounds better. Both are very nice, thanks for the comparison 🦞
Thanks Sparks!
If budget was of no object I could see getting the 4 string version and putting some EMG pickups and preamp in there. Nice review as always.
Thanks Marks! I was contemplating grabbing the BB434 as a platform to drop the new DCBs in... we'll see ;)
Damn, I’ve never paid attention to any Yamaha basses before, the little touches are so cool. I really like the rubber truss rod grommet .
Indeed! It's little stuff like that which shows the attention to detail that's persisted throughout the lineage of the BB line.
Thank you for the review. I own a BB734A and i absolutely love it. I have to admit I never noticed any hum on the J pickup, but it's also true that I usually play it with both pickups on, which is where it really delivers a wonderful tone. It's obviously your review, but I think 3/5 could be a bit low for this basses.
Thanks Stefanos! The ratings are just my opinion, but I hope people definitely form their own opinions based off the sound clips and their own experiences. I just share my two cents :)
@@LowEndLobster oh, I just found out that the 83$ bass got 4/5. Very interesting
@@stefanos80 Indeed! My ratings are not really comparable between basses and are an overall statement on how I feel about them based on numerous factors such as price, perceived quality, feel, tone, flexibility/versatility. 3/5 is an average (not bad) rating, 4/5 is above average and 5/5 is a near-perfect instrument (all are my opinion). In my opinion the $83 Glarry is an immense value for $83, where the Yamaha I review here is an average value. I'm not saying an $83 Glarry is better than this Yamaha because it's not. However, at $800 I personally think the Yamaha is an average value.
When you point at us at the end of the drum loop, I point back. XD
That's wholesome AF XD
0:00 looking forward to hearing these - every one I've heard with the slug pickups has been sweet, responsive, thick, and articulate.
Not sure why it would be changed, but there's always a lot of brand refocusing going on in the mid-tiers...
3:50 I've been designing a platform qualification setup - yep, instruments can be characterized on their physical qualities and attributes with ZERO signal chain in the way of determining (it's even easier to test stuff like neck flex because strain gauges are cheap, kind of like pre-gummed stamps, yes, multiaxis lol) what the actual properties of the thing is. I hate guessing - it's not very consistently reproducible.
7:00 yeah the new guy is sounding like a Yamaha bass should so they're dialing in their tones on the new electronics fairly well...it's hard to compare the old with the new because they're completely different electronics in the platforms. All serviceable as fuck, no problems.
10:35 speaking of comfort, be cool to see a comparison between someone like Michael Anthony's sig models, Yamaha and Schecter - actually a fun lark would be to review the set of instruments people have had sig models or used in their careers, little history/little fun.
Like check out all versions of Billy Sheehan's Attitude! A/B/C/etc :-)
Oh man, that'd be sick to snag some attitudes. Someone else mentioned they had a sick Attitude custom with factory piezo. So much coolness
Yes, my man Lobster always delivering. Hope for more Yamaha reviews. The TRBX series looks very interesting and a great bang for buck.
Thanks Thiago! I agree, hoping to check out more Yamahas soon :)
The weird thing for me is I just bought the 734a and the jazz pick up is totally hum free. Very pleasant bass to play and that active switch blows me away,
I love your videos keep up the amazing work it was nice meeting you today
Thank you! You as well :)
I like the thick low mids of the older Yamaha.
But...
They both sound great in their own way.
Yamaha excels in their gear construction
Thank you! Indeed the construction and attention to detail was definitely top notch.
I love this bass. It's my main 5 string for gigs. Fun review as always.
Thank you!
Bro, you knocked it out of the park as usual! Another great review video. I’m loving the Tribe so far and am really impressed with the MJC strings, I gotta say. They’re special. Also...how am I JUST NOW noticing the bass clef claws in your logo??
Thanks Chris! So glad you're enjoying it :). Yes! The original logo didn't have any of that, but a viewer made me a new one halfway through last year and it has those subtle touches :)
I think a comparison to the 615 would have been more useful, since it's a 5 string too and has an active preamp
Hey bro,,,,i had a BB1200 in the early 80s,,,, natural finish,,,WISH I HAD IT BACK thanks for a great video 🎸🤠in Arkansas.
I really love the older one! That color is beautiful!! Goes great with the chrome and black
I’ve been really fighting the urge to get a 734a recently because I want to put the Les Claypool signature EMG’s in it. I’ve already got a BB1600 and I just love it. Thanks for the review.
Thanks Xander! Those EMGs look so cool. I have one on order and can't wait to check it out :)
Thanks for another honest and thorough review, love the effortless playing too. I was thinking of getting one of the 4 string BB734A's as I heard the eq system was really good for recording, I might think again and check out some of your other reviews. Shame Yamaha didn't cancel the hum in some way, I really like their guitars, as a rule.
Thanks Jon!
I had a BB 424, and it's awesome. Yamaha got a great quality control!
I'm a huge fan of BB series. I had two - a BBG5S and a BB 615 (similar to your 414 but a 5 with an active preamp). Both were AT LEAST very decent. I also had an opportunity to try out some older BBs from the 80s - they were awesome! I'd absolutely love a BB3000. Or a 5000A. Or, better yet, a 5000AF. I still regret not being able to buy a beautiful 5000AF in a stunning dark purple metallic (Deep Purple ;-)) several years ago. It was the only one in this colour I've ever seen and was up for grabs here in Poland. Some lucky bastard snatched it and holds on to it to this very day.
As for these two - I think the 414 sounds slightly better but the 735 is really nice too. But I still think the original Japanese BBs from the 80s were the real deal. Lovely basses!
Thanks BD!... that purple one sounds drool worthy. I really want to try some older MIJ ones as well, they have such mojo!
The lobster 🦞 always has the best reviews
Thanks T H!
Awesome review. The Yamaha bb basses are killer sounding bass guitars. Even the lower leveled Yamaha bb basses sounds phenomenal. I own a Yamaha bb235 and it’s sounds awesome. It’s got a killer p-bass sound that’s suitable for any genre. Including metal. \m/ not to mention they sound phenomenal with effects. I highly recommend these basses and the trbx basses.
Thanks Alex!
Nice review Lobster. Both of em sound great.
Thank you :)
Another great review. Thanks! I have a BB235 and was considering getting a 2nd hand 435. The bridge pickup hum and the B string is what I don't like about it as well, so I assume if I got the 435 that wouldn't make me happier. Maybe and new bridge and new electronics would be a better (and more fun) route. Another thing I don't like is the neck width is so narrow but I am getting used to it.
Thanks Quincy! The neck is definitely an odd duck with the narrow spacing at the nut and the wide spacing at the bridge. Definitely takes some getting used to like you said!
I have the 434 and it has noise when jazz pickup is added. That's normal. It happens even on my 734a too.
Mr Lobster, some of us LIKE single coil pickups. There's no points lost in having a normal jazz bridge wind when a jazz bass only cancels exactly in the middle anyway. Doesn't everyone dial one pickup on a jazz a bit back to get the top back?
There's an idea for a video.... Find a hum cancelled jazz bridge pickup that has as an open a top end as a conventional.
True, James! No points lost for J basses, absolutely. I usually mention it as some newer players may look at a bass, get it without understanding the difference, and think something is wrong because of the noise. The BEST hum cancelling J's at the 500-ish dollar bass price point were found in the Cort GB64jj. The preamp was a little bridge, but those pickups had loads of high end and 0 hum.
@@LowEndLobster thanks for your response. My past experiences with noiseless have been less than stellar. Good to hear cort are getting it right
I have no complaints about noise or buzz on my BB734. I have Elixer strings on it and while I don't use the preamp so much it really does kick ass and will punch through anything.
You probably live in a newer building with modern wiring.
You deserve way more view. Best yt bass review channel
Thank you Mio!
I had a Yamaha BB5000, the cream color and got rid of it! THE WORST MISTAKE I EVER MADE! I see why my man Nathan East used Yamaha Basses. They have a nice warm tone. These new BB’s are pretty good! I hate the pickguard on ‘em tho. But they sound great! If they released a BB 5000 type of 5 string bass; I’ll get one in a heartbeat!😳🎶👍🏾
Thanks! Oh snap, those 5000's are suhweet. Hope one finds its way to you :)
@@LowEndLobster Thanks! I hope so too. Even the BB3000 series are a beaut. I saw Richard Page from Mr. Mister played a 3000 fretless and that thing was ‘a la cream!’ Even tho they’re Japanese built, the quality was tops.😌🎶👍🏾
Nice review. The B string isn't as defined as the others but the .132 chromes on my 435 definitely helped. I believe the higher end TRBX series may have a more defined B
Thanks Lucy!
Ahoy Bearman...
I used to have one Yamaha BB 414. I wish I didn't sell it. It was very enjoyable to make music with BB 414. You revived my memories.
Glad you enjoyed the vid :)
Finally a proper BB review.. I have the 414 in white and love it and was looking at the 734 but maybe I'll consider the 434?
Thanks Crayon! I think the biggest difference is the blend vs 3 way toggle. IMO I never really find myself using the blend in a way where I'm not having it dead center or at the extremes, but that's just me.
Nice one Lobster. Been eyeing the 735 since it came out, like so many other players. I owned a 435 (teal) but had to let it go cause the B string was absolutely not happening. My fav mid priced Yamaha is still the TRB1005 (or J). The 35" scale, humbucking pickups and powerful onboard EQ always win. Thanks for the great review.
Thanks Jean-Paul!
Two things that I've noticed here:
1. The BB 414 body looks wider than the 735A.
2. The 735A allows for pickup upgrades as the traditional BB basses did not.
Great review as always Lobster. 2 years ago was deciding between this and the Ibanez SR505e. Went with the Ibanez. Mine weighs only 8lbs. Your reviews of the DCB pickups are making me consider them for my SR. Would love to see a review from you of the SR505 if you get a chance.
Thanks jlopez! I'll do my best to snag one :)
This is exactly the type of review I was looking for! The only thing I would've liked was the use of the B string in context with the main lick and tone tests. It's never used in context. Only when he plays it alone after saying it wasn't the best. Otherwise thank you!
So I’ve been playing BB Basses on and off for 10+ years. I have a 1985 BB5000 MIJ that is superb, and has very similar pickups to your BB414. I’ve also owned a more recent BBP35. The BBP35 was a good bass, but lacked some of the sound that made the BB series special, as you mentioned; a lot of it had to do with the more Fender-esque pickups. They sound great, but not like a BB. The B string on the BBP35 sounded good though. The REAL problem that I’ve been seeing with Yamaha in general is that their Indonesian factory has been increasingly churning out stuff that I think is below Yamaha standards. This most recent BB series is one I’ve had some issues with, having played the BB235 briefly (and with a few different specimen) as well as several of the higher TRBX Basses. They’ve had some construction issues, and the B on those upper TRBXs was never good. That’s not the Yamaha I played for years. Stick with older BB Basses; you’ll like the B string better there, too.
Thank you Marc! Great comment, thank you for sharing your experience.
I had a BB734A a few months ago. Wanted to love it as aesthetically it was perfect and the neck pickup was awesome. Unfortunately the bridge pickup just felt too weak and it was too thin to use at all for me. I sold it, and recently bought a 2005 BB414 (Orange !) and it is the sound I wish the BB734 did, it was well less than half of the price too. It might even be a keeper.
Lobster, your reviews IMO are some of the best; - honest, informative and your subjectivity is very helpful to the audience. I'd like to share my comments w/U:
1. The 414 overall has the better sound in every passive setting between the two. Could it be that the 735's electronics are putting too much of a load on its pickups (even tho's it's in a passive mode) and therefore a more compressed, less open sound than the 414?
2. ln my 40 plus years of playing bass and Fender type instruments w/single coil pickups, I've never had a sound man, recording engineer or fellow band member ever, ever complain about single-coil pickup noise or hum. Just saying, and wanted to share my experience w/that subject.
3. I picked up a BB424 (the Japanese domestic version) from Yamaha Music on the Ginza in Tokyo in 2017, - which is close to the 414 but w/added useful features like the top loaded or string-thru body bridge, a multi-wood laminated neck and the fingerboard inlays like the 414's. Really nice playing and well-balanced, too.
I believe that Yamaha should stick mostly to the original concept of the BB series w/passive electronics that it collaborated w/the great Nathan East when it started to produce these basses back in the mid-1980's. Again, thank you for your presentation.
I have a modded (not by me) BB1025 with a series/parallel switch for the neck pu. This gives an extra, slightly cleaner sound and parallel does give you the extra option to be absolutely humfree while still using both pickups. I must add that I never had any hum-issues with this bass and I guess most people will prefer the sound of the the normal series switching, at least I do. But it's always good to have options ;-)
I totally agree with you - the old BB sounds much better. Nonetheless, without playing on one myself, I still think that BB is just different looking japanese P-bass with my least favourite pickup layout (PJ).
Thanks! Honestly, I'm much more of a fan of the PJ config in a modern setting (spector) vs a vintage/traditional setting like this. I want to get my hands on the Peter Hook model!
Glad to see I'm not the only one not a fan of PJ pickup configuration
I have always been put off by the body shape. I didn't like the old design, but i wasn't aware they received such a rework in design. Maybe it'd be something to revisit.
Thanks James! Indeed the redesign was pretty substantial.
What's the blue bass behind you? That finish catches my eye everytime.
It's an FGN Mighty Jazz i think
Krodran is correct! - ua-cam.com/video/aDkOJ5q9RfU/v-deo.html
In had this bass for two weeks. Loved the sound, couldn't stand how much the neck dived on it.
Thanks for sharing Liam!
@@LowEndLobster any time. Enjoy the videos. Keep it up
I’d be interested in hearing your review of Yamaha’s TRBX 605FM. I’m seriously considering purchasing one of those once I sell a few things that I don’t need.
Thanks Chuck! Those are definitely on my radar!
Nice review. I really loved the BB735 I played at a GC last December. Somebody else liked it too, because when I came back the next day, it had been sold. I liked the B string myself, but you spent much more time with the bass than I did. Although I have heard worse, Yamaha should employ some sort of hum canceling technology on these basses, even at the lower price levels. The must feel the overall tone is worth the hum because even their top of the line BB basses are not hum canceling.
Thank you! I agree 100%, in a PJ setup I don't really think anything is lost by employing some hum cancelling in the J. A J can be quiet with both pickups balanced, but a PJ with no noise cancelling will always be noisy and some (like myself) definitely find that unappealing. I definitely understand the character of single coils differs from their humcancelling and humbucking counterparts, but in a PJ I often find the J to be an afterthought (though to Sire's credit, the U5 does it RIGHT!).
@@LowEndLobster I think Sire may end up lighting a fire under Yamaha because PJ’s with comparable preamps, but silent bridge pickups that are also cheaper, are going to bite into Yamaha’s sales.
I´m a Yamaha guy .. You are right on the spot .. My main is the bb1024X ,- and i hate the humming singlecoile on 700 series .Pickups on the 1024x is way better sounding . But i realy like the neck on 700 series . and active preamp option . I think the 700 series is a good bass ,- but lack off characters in the sound . Well now i have severel yamaha´s - now im going for a musicman for different sound .. I watcht you reviuws on Stingray 34 .. yes ,- i go with that .. and then the Musicman sterling ,- now im not sure about that one ... Sp my next bass will be a Sterling 34 NA ... thanks for nice show . I think you're the first to not praise this bass up to the clouds, - I wonder why ?
Thank you Mougaard! I approach instruments a bit differently then most on my channel. I try to keep everything as constant as possible and let the raw tone do the talking where others may do their best to make the bass sound as good as possible via EQ, effects, modeling, etc. My thought is to look at a bass in an environment with as few variables as possible. Amp settings always the same, same type/brand/gauge of string, same environment, etc. I know the feeling of seeing something, wanting it, buying it, and expecting it to perform a certain way based on the media that I consumed, and being disappointed that I'm not getting the same result as what I saw. That's why I use my 50W Orange practice amp for all my videos because it is likely more representative of what others will experience vs a much nicer amp stack (my main rig is an Aguilar Tone Hammer 350 and Accugroove Tri112L cab)
@@LowEndLobster Yes,- in my band ( Country band) i play the BB1024 on SWR Workingman 8/10 with SWR Workingman 8004 AMP. That works very well. It´s very hard for my to try new equipment , mostly it goes bad , and im back with the same old rig . :) But i am optimistic about the Sterling by Music Man Sterling Sting Ray 34 . When the right one is in stock .. , Yes, i know .. Musicman is not for Country music .. :) shure wy not ..
I like the way you reviuw the basses .. i will be watching
15:08 the nice thing about bass strings is someone does not like the strings that are already on it they can always take them off and put a set of their favorite brand on it.
This is true! I try and use the same type and gauge of string to keep things constant, but that is limiting in some ways.
I got the Yamaha BB734A, no jazz pickup hum ftw! 😋
Noice!
Try plugging your bass into your audio interface and listen on headphones, tell me then don't you hear a noise. It's there for sure.
A very good Review, thanks . It's Yamaha , a bass for every move in Life ! Pure Quality wood and Technical Material. For a Great Sound .
Great review. Really Dig my YAMAHA BBP34 and BBP35. Great in the studio and on the stage!!
….would also love to see Lobster tackle the BBP34. ;)
I had the Yamaha BB615 5 string and loved it. I wish I could've kept that Bass (all of them) but I was in a situation that required that I get rid of a Bass before I could get a different Bass. (Kids, what are ya gonna do ??) I played it when I was playing with a Blues Rock band and it could cut any mix. (though I always made friends with the sound man before we started to play) It was tight and full sounding.
i love both those finishes
The weirdness around the pickups on the original is oddly nice.
Thanks froge! I agree, Joe. Honestly I found that the old one had more aesthetic and tonal character, the new one looks and sounds a bit more generic.
Its the P pickup that makes the B string muddy on these. Has been the same issue on every BB 5 string I have tried.
Interesting! Thanks Nick!
Good review. I have learned to never use 3 coils. Noise and mud don't work for me. Other than strings and electronics, construction and quality parts have a lot to do with tone and Low B articulation. This is why some basses sound great, unplugged.
Thanks Gerry, great comment!
It’s probably not really fair to compare a 34” scale B string to your 35” scale Ibanez’s. 125 gauge is generally just too lightweight for a decent B on 34”.
Thanks JJ! I'll be showing some other 5 strings using the same gauge which respond better and are 34" scale. I'm going to try and snag the BB435 too and revisit the BB series
sick bas
Thank you!
Sounds and looks great. 4 string is my bag. Again I would maybe swap the noisy pickups out for Aguilar AGDCB4PJ set or AG 4P/J HC set . Love the Matt Black look , Currently using a 1978 Fender Precision , Wanting something a bit more versatile and hence why looking at your reviews for options. Always love Stingrays as you may have gathered from previous comments. Again great in depth review . Thanks LEL.
Thanks Stuart! I was eyeing a 434 as a recipient for the new DCB PJs hehe
@@LowEndLobster sounds good to me. Love to hear on that bass 👌