I have had the privilege to record with one of these before. Superbly made instrument. There is nothing like a Fodera. Its so buttery smooth and such a pleasure to play. 😀 Great job Lobster in playing the hell out of the bass!
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this has become my favourite bass review channel, keep up the good work
I'm sure Fodera makes excellent basses, but they are constructed out of very two rare elements that very few can afford-unobtainium and cantaffordium! KIller looks and tone though with punch and growl in humbucker mode! However, if I COULD afford it, I'd get a Ken Smith!!!
You would make a right choice. I've just sold my ken smith bsr 5. And that's OK. Liked or but didn't really get much live use for it. Never the less I paid 7 grand for a new smith I didn't even got to play before the purchase. I played 2 Foderas. They are amazing. But in EU there are at least 4 manufacturers, that make essentially same thing for less. Much less that is. No one though has managed to replicate KS so far. It's special.
@@farmerlister3863 I agree. I've heard a number of basses that come close to replicating the Smith tone(the USA Peavey Cirrus and the PRS Gary Grainger Bass, which is the closest that I've ever heard and my first choice next to the real thing). No one can duplicate it exactly.
I've had times where I've considered saving up to get one, but man, I'd be terrified to play that thing out anywhere. It'd end up being a house bass and I can't justify the price for that. Still, thanks a bunch for showing us the bass! It was a treat.
Naw man, these instruments are meant to be played out and heard. I’ve been gigging with a $4000 PRS for over 20 years and it’s never failed me. It even got stolen back in the mid 2000s (later found it on eBay and had it back at the police station within 24 hours). After a certain amount of time, the value of your instruments is no longer intimidating.
It sounds like that cause this guy IS running it through a compressor XD he doesn't give you the dry signal, which is kinda stupid, the compressor is more pronounced than the actual bass IMHO
For over 30 years I have brought and sold many hi end basses, the Fodera I had was a cut above most of the other Hi End Boutique Basses. F Bass and Fodera Basses are the best playing and sounding Basses on stage and in the mix.
Fodera....many years ago I was at Sweden Rock Festival a giant rock festival. I´m walking between the stages and suddenly I hear an out of this world bass sound during a short sound check...FAT, punchy and wirh clarity and projection. I think to myself, this HAS to be a Fodera. Didn´t even know what band was sound checking. So I go to that stage to check things out. Turn out Vanilla Fudge is about to play....and indeed the bass player was playing a white Fodera :) Met the bass player later as I had a back stage pass and told him the story :). Now, I have heard many many soundchecks in my life...and especially at rock/pop gigs where the bass goes "boooom"--- just some undefinable low end rumble where you don´t hear the notes. So this Vanilla Fudge sound check was really something else :)
Fodera makes great basses. Expensive; BUT great QUALITY instruments. I always like the ‘Victor Wooten’ ying yang model but don’t like EMG’s. If I had my way I’ll have Nordstrands in there. Other than that, great bass, Lobster.
My first Fodera had the EMG PJ pickups like the Ying Yang. I also didn’t like them, way too modern sounding. Fodera ended up swapping them out for Aguilar which were much better. But not nearly as good as the Duncan dual coil which my second Fodera had as well as my current one, the one in the video.
Fantastic bass!! I had the 4 string walnut model. To be honest I wasn’t too crazy about the pickups. Even in humbucker mode it still sounds like a Jazz bass to me. I’m surprised they don’t have there own brand of pickups like Sadowsky does. Mine was also over 9lbs. You would think it would be lighter at that price. Anyway great video as always!! Thank You Lobster:)
Excellent as always! Very nice for sure. Speaking of the letter F it would be nice to see if you could get a hold of a F Bass. 34.5” scale, should be interesting. Alain Caron makes them sing. 🤷
Great review and the tones did not disappoint as they seem familiar and traditional. That being said I would not buy one for that reason as well. You should do a post or video if possible on your thoughts between the craftsmanship and playability between the Fodera and your MTD. Tone wise they are apples and oranges but playability and construction can be compared. Give us your thoughts. I am a little bias to the MTD as I like the looks better.
Lobster, early on I was shedding tears over the videos on high dollar Basses. I can no longer in good conscience do that as I have been granted human status by the credit reporting bureaus. This snd all Fodera Basses are out of my range(and playing ability, still a newbie) I loved this look at the 5 Standard. I respect and love that you were honest with your rating. Your concerns with the B string and whatever the other factors in the 4 claw rating is testament to what all UA-cam channels should aspire to.
I was talking to Lobster about that (that is my bass in the video). I think the strings can also dictate how the B string is. He swapped out the strings I use (Dunlop Super Brights) for the SIT strings he uses. With the Dunlop I never had an issue with the B string. When got the bass back it still had the SIT strings on it and yes, I could feel a difference. Could be the Dunlop strings are a bit higher tension then the SIT strings, thus a tighter B string.
Thanks for the great video! I love my Fodera Yin Yang Standard 4 PJ. It hadn't occurred to me yet, to go through the preamp as you did. I discovered some things sonically on mine. I want one with the Duncans as well.
The bass of one of my heroes, Anthony Jackson! Surprised that it’s not an anchor. They always appear to look heavy, but I’ve never actually played one.
Hey lobster! Could you review squire's 40th anniversary gold edition bass guitars? I would love to hear an honest review. I like the way they look but, are they really worth $600? Love the channel.
I've been tempted to buy every Fodera I've held lol. There's a dealer for them called The Low End Bass Shop in Murfreesboro TN where you can try them at your leisure if you promise to be gentle.
Man I have yet to even see a Fodera in person! Not that my Thumb is any slouch but still. Dying to see if they're really all that for the price tag honestly.
I believe this is the first one I've ever held, and the only ones I've seen have been in the hands of Victor Wooten at a show many many years ago hahaha. This was quite the experience.
I have. The photos don’t do justice. I’ve seen the Monarch 4 string and Emperor 5 and Sam Ash in NYC (when they were on 48th St) . The Emperor had a gorgeous Buck eye burl top and ebony fretboard and the monarch had a flame top with rosewood board. OMG! You had to seen them. Beautiful sight to behold! (Until I saw the prices.😉)
With those pickups yes. Not as much with the EMG PJ they use like in the Ying Yang model. My first Fodera had them and were too modern sounds for my taste.
Always wanted to get my hands on a Fodera. One day I'm sure I will but for now I'm in love with my Sadowsky NYC Will Lee, which is right around the same $6-7k price range. The quality of the build actually does justify the price for me.
I had a bunch of Sadowsky basses before my Fodera. Actually had a custom Fretless made, Roger shaped the neck himself! But honestly disappointed he sold out and now is make cheap Asian basses after he said he would never do that.
He didn’t sell out! Warwick makes his Metro line in Germany, and Warwick over sees his Metro Express line made in China. However, Roger still makes the NYC models in the USA.
Somehow I knew you'd eventually work your way up to a Fodera. They are very special indeed. Keep that lobster claw away from it though :-) These babies sound amazing even in passive mode.
Hey Lobster. I had a 84 4 string Monarch with a Fodera Emperor, Fodera installed 3 Band / 4 inside Mid Switch Bass from 95- to 2016. She was OLD, SEASONED AND DELICIOUS. Had to sell Her😢( Fifi - Asia - Name) Was getting Married and my Air Conditioner went out(in Florida)also I very seldom played 4string any more However Just a Crazy Crazy Excellent sounding Bass. Ive had that Fodera , and now have a 5 string MTD. ( a semilar Priceed Royce Royce and a Bentley)Both Top of the Line But Different. Anywho I guess when you are able to Purchase these Elite Level Basses( Ken Smiths, MTDs, Fodera s, Alembic s, Usa Spectors,Surine s, ETC)It Becomes a Matter of Feel, Taste, And The Feature/ Execution of the Bass. Just a Another Excellent Wonderful Bass Review you ve Done. God Bless you Sir🙏🙏
This bass would be mine if I won the lottery! It's beautiful, it sounds amazing!, and it's well made. It's the Mercedez Benz of Bass. Dream bass, for sure!
Happy Easter~ I'm surprised that the cat didn't show up for this. You should check out Wayne Jones' Fodera~ it's in all his UA-cam vids showing off his amazing amps.
I'd really wanna see one of these with a Lakeland style 3 way split-parallel-split switch. I think you can achieve something closer to 60s style Jazz Bass when using the bridge inner coil with the neck outer coil, or a modern Ibanez style with the bridge outer coil and neck inner coil
It so funny to read some of these nea sayer comments. Like on TalkBass from people who probably never touched one no less play one. Yes they are expensive. But there is a reason they have an almost two year wait time for new basses. Also not mentioned is the people behind Fodera. The best in the business. They will go out of their way to make sure you are happy. They even took me out to lunch when I was at their shop! I actually had a Sire M5 which was a great bass. But when you played it you can feel the difference, it lacks the feel and the love that goes into making a handmade instrument. Like going from a Toyota Corolla which is a solid dependable car to a handmade Lexus LC 500!
I realize I forgot to mention the nut width and profile! My bad! Neck profile is decently shallow modern C shape, similar to a 5 string Jazz honestly. A lot about this bass really felt like a normal jazz, just way better... but still normal. Sometimes with these high end instruments, you expect almost a foreign/different feel, but the Fodera feels like you can pick it up with no adjustment period.
@@LowEndLobster Yep/ They used all kinds of finishes over the years including oil, acrylic, water based eurythane and a finish that was sprayed on satin. But oil and eirathane wear off, acryllic is not that protective and spray on satin is full of particles which causes finishing issues. Years back they built a spray booth and now they do it htis way. Very protective as it is clear coat but with the gloss taken out.
I do have a Fodera... They really are something very special... Rationally, worth the 7k? Probably not. Especially considering we are probably paying more than we should just for their Brooklyn Manufacturing and Overheads, and their entire marketing team... Consider the first Monarch Bass Victor Wooten received was selling for ... $900 ! (yep) at the time... Now, would I buy it again at the price I payed (full retail last year), Yes, 100%!
I sold my Fodera's about 5 years ago. Hands down best instruments I played but I'm now happy with my Ibanez SR505. I'd get another but even the used market the price is something I'm not willing to spend.
There's no way your Ibanez won't do the job the Fodera did in a band mix. Those super high end basses are definitely very nice pieces for the player but at the end of the day they are not justified strictly from a sound engineer, and ultimately audience, aural perception. I mean, didn't Marcus Miller get some of the best tones ever out of a not-so-great late 70s jazz ? :-)
I did notice that the B string had a bit of a tendency to collapse harmonically…which is one of those things you really, REALLY don’t want on such an expensive 5 string. What’s the point? Other than that, the rest of the instrument sounds impeccable. That preamp, the construction and the overall flexibility are top notch. The B string situation would keep me away from this bass, personally…but if it were a 4 string, it would be one of the nicer sounding 4 strings I’ve heard.
To my ears sound much better than MTD, I don't know why a 4 - it deserves a 5 for sure. I still think MTD's 535 electronics seems to be a better quality. I am on the market for a boutique bass to add to my collection. What I have learned so far is that if you like a Music Man, modern and brighter tones go for an MTD. If you like a more a classic, richer Fender Jazz and maybe Precision spice to it, go for a Fodera or F Bass. If you like a full vintage, thicker tone go for a Sire or Warwick. I havent researched other brands yet. Sadowsky Custom seems to be a good option too
Fodera seem like amazing basses, they are stunning, sound great, and people always say they are very easy to play and very comfortable. However you can say that on many other custom shop bass companies, with many of them being cheaper than Fodera. I feel like Foderas cost that much because they are based in NYC (which is expensive), and because quite a few people *will* buy their basses regardless of the price. Kind of like how many other companies have high prices, because they know that people will buy it regardless. I would love to be able to play a Fodera one day, but I can say the same about Sadowsky, F-Bass, Mayones and many more. Heck, the only reason I got to play an expensive Canadian made Dingwall is because I live in the city where they are made and one time they had a small event showcasing some of their basses in one of the city's guitar shops! I played a 5 string Afterburner II (the semi hollow one) and it cost about 7,000 CAD which is about 5,500 USD, and while it played like a dream and sounded great, I didn't feel like I could pay that much for a bass when my Warwick that I paid about 3500 CAD played just as good! Long story short, I'm sure that Foderas and the likes all sound incredible and play great, but you can get other basses that will play as good and sound as good for half the price, if not even less...And that way you can have more than one of them XD Great video nonetheless Lobster :D
Well said. Foderas are wonderful instruments (but I played a few, not many, mind you, but more than one or two, that were sub par, and by a long shot) but really expensive. Of course the relation between price and perceived quality is an exponential function, at a certain point even a minimum amount "quality" might add a bangload of money. IE a brazilian rosewood fingerboard is that much of upgrade in terms of tonal quality? How many people would be able to identify it in a blind test? A local luthier, unknown outside of Italy, built me a bass that plays as good as any Fodera for a fraction of the price, and I got to personally handpick every single piece of wood and hardware that went into its construction (no brazilian rosewood, of course), so I totally agree with your last statement. Also going local has the great advantage to let you have a deeper understanding of the construction process. In the above example, the luthier had me "tone test" (not sure I'm translating correctly) each piece of wood, to let me choose what was best for what I had in mind.
You can get basses that sound as good as your $3500 example for half of that price as well. My point is we are well into the realm of diminishing returns and you buy a Fodera (or likewise) as a flex, not because it's a good value.
@@57precision I wouldn't necessarily say it's a flex, and if people wanna buy it then they can go ahead, just saying that there are wonderful options for half if not less than the price these basses go for :)
@@57precision being an old dude, I think the diminishing returns factor is even more evident today. Lower/mid priced instruments now sports a quality I would have expected to find in high end or even boutique basses 20/30 years ago. But I agrre with Martyr Of Grenth, boutique basses aren't necessarily a flex. Sometimes they are the only option available for certain needs of a specific musician. Do you want to sound like Anthony Jackson? Better start saving now, there isn't a single bass out there that has that timbre. ;-)
Why can't everyone do like Dingwall and add magnets for covers to be easily taken off? 😭 *may or may not have done something stupid and done a trade in for a used NG-*
@@LowEndLobster I have seen an MTD with that option once or twice, the same unit at a nearby music store. And I'm actually waiting on my brother to bring it from his PO box since I couldn't get anything shipped to mine...i have a couple cheap ibanez and Squier basses but I'm sure the jump will be massive with the Dingwall haha
I love bass guitars. Got a few nice ones but I realise that if you want one with those rich overtones and clarity, you need to be willing to dish out at least $5-6k for a 4 string, like this Fodera as an ‘entry level bass’. Leveling up to the sound of the through neck Fodera or Ken Smith, it’s at least $8.5k I need to strike the national lottery!!! 😂
@@AndresGarcia-kj3cr Yeah, the builder has some pretty abhorrent views certain topics (human rights and the pandemic) which I don't want to support on my platform.
It's my platform at the end of the day... There are plenty of other small boutique shops out there from better people without hateful views, and I'd rather spend my time focusing on those.
I used to have a 1973 Series 1 about 16-17 years ago. It was SO HEAVY, chugged batteries, and had the weirdest neck profile I've ever felt hahaha. I'd love to check out a modern one though!
I’d love to get the Emperor Standard 4 string but how can one justify it when only play in bedroom. As a gigging musician, possible to justify it. Nmind … just dream and watch UA-cam. 🤣😂
Love your reviews but, there is no entry level Fodera. They are all made with the same attention to detail. Some people like solid colors, some like a basic p and some value exotic woods. The quality and craftsmanship does not waiver regardless of model.
Man, there is no way a high quality Ibanez bass, that has a neck though and battery cavity, isn’t a better value at 1/3 the price. I would need to have some lottery money the be able to buy this bass! Haha
@@LowEndLobster It would make for a really superb video, since no one does much on them. They're so crazy expensive but a review of the phantom power and the tones it offers would be really interesting, but a review video isn't worth the eight grand buy in, unless someone has another loaner that they'd be interested in seeing featured by you.
@@offbeatbassgear I bought mine used for like $3k around 2005. It weighed like 14 lbs, was HUGE, and chugged batteries (unless you brought the little power adapter box with you). The neck also had 0 taper. Same dimensions at the 12th fret as the 1st. Very odd instrument. I hope I come across one (that I can borrow) some day!
@@LowEndLobster You know, if you're looking for something to review that isn't done to death, I'd look at the Squier Bass VI or an eight string that's somewhat affordable. The Riot Eight from Schecter comes to mind.
Fodera basses are obviously very well crafted and very nice basses. Having said that, however, even if money weren't an issue and I was a billionnaire, multiple thousand bucks for an electric instrument is beyond crazy for me. Especially considering that, realistically, it's not anything that special. Diminishing returns and all. Not trashing owners, anyone can do whatever they want with their money but yeah, not for me, thank you. And to be fair, I think the same of MusicMan or even Fender.
Fodera basses aren't consistent in tone imo! Sharay Reed, Felix Pastorius and Richard Bona own Fodera basses that sound incredible. Besides Fodera on the headstock, I didn't hear any magic coming for that bass!
That is absolutely correct! If you want basses that all sound the same, get a Fender. Except for the Standard Series, no two Fodera basses are the same. Each custom Fodera is built specifically for the customer. They work with each customer to help tailor the sound they are looking for. That is where Fodera's incredible knowledge of tone woods come into play. Victor Wooten's bass does not sound like Anthony Jackson's bass. Anthony Jackson's bass doesn't sound like James Genus bass and so on. That is why they are "Custom" basses. I have owned three Fodera's including the one in this video. Not one sounded the same, but all sounded incredible!
🙄 sorry to be a dick, but granted,… It probably feels great and it’s built with the best stuff, & blah blah. but $6000-$7000 for that thing!?, and when you started playing, it just sounded _(to my ears)_ like any other $800 ‘jazz bass’ on the market 🤷🏼♂️
I have had the privilege to record with one of these before. Superbly made instrument. There is nothing like a Fodera. Its so buttery smooth and such a pleasure to play. 😀 Great job Lobster in playing the hell out of the bass!
this has become my favourite bass review channel, keep up the good work
You’re one of the few people that I’ve heard that actually give me an accurate idea of the tonal options of the fodera
I'm sure Fodera makes excellent basses, but they are constructed out of very two rare elements that very few can afford-unobtainium and cantaffordium! KIller looks and tone though with punch and growl in humbucker mode! However, if I COULD afford it, I'd get a Ken Smith!!!
I'd get 2 Canadian Dingwalls.
You would make a right choice. I've just sold my ken smith bsr 5. And that's OK. Liked or but didn't really get much live use for it. Never the less I paid 7 grand for a new smith I didn't even got to play before the purchase. I played 2 Foderas. They are amazing. But in EU there are at least 4 manufacturers, that make essentially same thing for less. Much less that is. No one though has managed to replicate KS so far. It's special.
@@farmerlister3863 I agree. I've heard a number of basses that come close to replicating the Smith tone(the USA Peavey Cirrus and the PRS Gary Grainger Bass, which is the closest that I've ever heard and my first choice next to the real thing). No one can duplicate it exactly.
You know they’re good when Victor Wooten use them
They all make music. 😉
I've had times where I've considered saving up to get one, but man, I'd be terrified to play that thing out anywhere. It'd end up being a house bass and I can't justify the price for that. Still, thanks a bunch for showing us the bass! It was a treat.
I use it all the time! That’s why I got it! Like my Corvette, I bought it to drive it and now have 60k miles on it!
Same with my '77 Lawsuit era P Bass from Goya.. I'll never find another one quite like it, so it stays home
I play my YY5S out more than any other bass of mine. It’s not just eye candy. Phenomenal instrument.
Naw man, these instruments are meant to be played out and heard. I’ve been gigging with a $4000 PRS for over 20 years and it’s never failed me. It even got stolen back in the mid 2000s (later found it on eBay and had it back at the police station within 24 hours). After a certain amount of time, the value of your instruments is no longer intimidating.
If you can; get one second handed. It's always gonna hurt your wallet but it's totally worth it, especially compared in price to a fender custom shop.
Fodera's sound like a passive bass that went through all the preamp/compressors in a studio. The controls are very usable and musical.
I do have a Fodera Deluxe Emperor 5 (35' scale) I may send it to you if you want to make a video with it ;-)
That would be killer! Please reach out over instagram or email (lowendlobster at gmail) and we can make arrangements. :)
It sounds like that cause this guy IS running it through a compressor XD he doesn't give you the dry signal, which is kinda stupid, the compressor is more pronounced than the actual bass IMHO
YES FINALLY A FODERA ON LOBSTER'S CHANNEL!!
For over 30 years I have brought and sold many hi end basses, the Fodera I had was a cut above most of the other Hi End Boutique Basses.
F Bass and Fodera Basses are the best playing and sounding Basses on stage and in the mix.
Oh Fodera, the bass on every players powerball list. Fantastic instruments. One of the few companies that are worth the money.
Yes!!
It looks like that bass was really inspiring the way you play.
Fantastic.
Thanks to the owner for letting us check that out.
You are welcome! He was definitely excited when I sent it!
Aahhh that tone. And dare I say, it's taken your playing to the next level. Love it.
Thank you!
I'm undecided if I should buy a Fodera or 87 Glarrys. Great review, Lobster.
😂😂😂😂
Monster of a bass and it looks and sounds amazing. Awesome to see this on the channel. Great work.
Fodera....many years ago I was at Sweden Rock Festival a giant rock festival. I´m walking between the stages and suddenly I hear an out of this world bass sound during a short sound check...FAT, punchy and wirh clarity and projection. I think to myself, this HAS to be a Fodera. Didn´t even know what band was sound checking. So I go to that stage to check things out. Turn out Vanilla Fudge is about to play....and indeed the bass player was playing a white Fodera :) Met the bass player later as I had a back stage pass and told him the story :). Now, I have heard many many soundchecks in my life...and especially at rock/pop gigs where the bass goes "boooom"--- just some undefinable low end rumble where you don´t hear the notes. So this Vanilla Fudge sound check was really something else :)
That must have been legendary Tim Bogert. He used one. Saw a pic of him playing a 6 string. He was my earliest influence.
Fodera makes great basses. Expensive; BUT great QUALITY instruments. I always like the ‘Victor Wooten’ ying yang model but don’t like EMG’s. If I had my way I’ll have Nordstrands in there. Other than that, great bass, Lobster.
My first Fodera had the EMG PJ pickups like the Ying Yang. I also didn’t like them, way too modern sounding. Fodera ended up swapping them out for Aguilar which were much better. But not nearly as good as the Duncan dual coil which my second Fodera had as well as my current one, the one in the video.
I have a YY5S that I swapped the EMG PJs for Duncan NYC humbuckers. The thing KILLS now.
I know these are the bees knees but I’ve never really enjoyed the way they sounded. But, that’s just my .02. Keep up the good work!
"This is a $6000 instrument from Fodera. I am now going to start ripping these pickups apart to see if they are REALLY humbuckers"
LMAO XD
OH that SOUNDS amazing!!! the slab is a combination of a modern with a jazz bass!!
Oh my goodness, that is a gorgeous bass
The best review of a Fodera Bass that I ever seen! Thanks man!
Nice review Lobster, a bit of a dream bass for most of us. It was nice to see and hear you play the standard. You sounded great.
Fantastic bass!! I had the 4 string walnut model.
To be honest I wasn’t too crazy about the pickups. Even in humbucker mode it still sounds like a Jazz bass to me. I’m surprised they don’t have there own brand of pickups like Sadowsky does. Mine was also over 9lbs. You would think it would be lighter at that price.
Anyway great video as always!! Thank You Lobster:)
Played this bass at a boutique bass shop in San Diego. I was tempted to trade them my Honda and just have my wife come pick me up. Hahaha.
Hold on, gotta grab the headphones to give Lobster’s fine work the listen it deserves!
Excellent as always! Very nice for sure. Speaking of the letter F it would be nice to see if you could get a hold of a F Bass. 34.5” scale, should be interesting. Alain Caron makes them sing. 🤷
Hey Lobster thanks for showing Ryan Martinie some love!!! He is my favorite player!! He’s earned the respect for sure!!!
Nice shirt. My fav's have been the Jazzborghini and the Valenti. To me those have been the best sounding. I would love to hear an Exotic.
Great review and the tones did not disappoint as they seem familiar and traditional. That being said I would not buy one for that reason as well. You should do a post or video if possible on your thoughts between the craftsmanship and playability between the Fodera and your MTD. Tone wise they are apples and oranges but playability and construction can be compared. Give us your thoughts. I am a little bias to the MTD as I like the looks better.
Thank you Meyers! There's definitely a comparison coming :)
Lobster, early on I was shedding tears over the videos on high dollar Basses. I can no longer in good conscience do that as I have been granted human status by the credit reporting bureaus. This snd all Fodera Basses are out of my range(and playing ability, still a newbie) I loved this look at the 5 Standard. I respect and love that you were honest with your rating. Your concerns with the B string and whatever the other factors in the 4 claw rating is testament to what all UA-cam channels should aspire to.
I was talking to Lobster about that (that is my bass in the video). I think the strings can also dictate how the B string is. He swapped out the strings I use (Dunlop Super Brights) for the SIT strings he uses. With the Dunlop I never had an issue with the B string. When got the bass back it still had the SIT strings on it and yes, I could feel a difference. Could be the Dunlop strings are a bit higher tension then the SIT strings, thus a tighter B string.
Thiiiiiss!! Thank you for your honest review siir!
:)
Thanks for the great video! I love my Fodera Yin Yang Standard 4 PJ. It hadn't occurred to me yet, to go through the preamp as you did. I discovered some things sonically on mine. I want one with the Duncans as well.
The bass of one of my heroes, Anthony Jackson! Surprised that it’s not an anchor. They always appear to look heavy, but I’ve never actually played one.
Hey lobster! Could you review squire's 40th anniversary gold edition bass guitars? I would love to hear an honest review. I like the way they look but, are they really worth $600? Love the channel.
Thank you! I plan on snagging them at some point
I've been tempted to buy every Fodera I've held lol. There's a dealer for them called The Low End Bass Shop in Murfreesboro TN where you can try them at your leisure if you promise to be gentle.
One day I too shall get one of those.
Amazing review bro
Ah si j'etais riche ! Great review like always, thanks Lobster.
gorgeous tone! dang
Man I have yet to even see a Fodera in person! Not that my Thumb is any slouch but still. Dying to see if they're really all that for the price tag honestly.
I believe this is the first one I've ever held, and the only ones I've seen have been in the hands of Victor Wooten at a show many many years ago hahaha. This was quite the experience.
I have. The photos don’t do justice. I’ve seen the Monarch 4 string and Emperor 5 and Sam Ash in NYC (when they were on 48th St) . The Emperor had a gorgeous Buck eye burl top and ebony fretboard and the monarch had a flame top with rosewood board. OMG! You had to seen them. Beautiful sight to behold! (Until I saw the prices.😉)
Excellent video, thanks ! For the future, can you show us the Sire P5 5 strings. I would like to know if it's a big deal. Greetings from Tahiti
Sounds more old school than I thought it would. The midrange texture is awesome.
With those pickups yes. Not as much with the EMG PJ they use like in the Ying Yang model. My first Fodera had them and were too modern sounds for my taste.
We need battle between this masterpiece bass and MTD 535
Oh it's comings
@@LowEndLobster Thanks Lobsterman, i will waiting.
Always wanted to get my hands on a Fodera. One day I'm sure I will but for now I'm in love with my Sadowsky NYC Will Lee, which is right around the same $6-7k price range. The quality of the build actually does justify the price for me.
I had a bunch of Sadowsky basses before my Fodera. Actually had a custom Fretless made, Roger shaped the neck himself! But honestly disappointed he sold out and now is make cheap Asian basses after he said he would never do that.
He didn’t sell out! Warwick makes his Metro line in Germany, and Warwick over sees his Metro Express line made in China. However, Roger still makes the NYC models in the USA.
Somehow I knew you'd eventually work your way up to a Fodera. They are very special indeed. Keep that lobster claw away from it though :-) These babies sound amazing even in passive mode.
Thank you! I never thought I'd have the chance to play one, let alone borrow one.
Hey Lobster. I had a 84 4 string Monarch with a Fodera Emperor, Fodera installed 3 Band / 4 inside Mid Switch Bass from 95- to 2016. She was OLD, SEASONED AND DELICIOUS. Had to sell Her😢( Fifi - Asia - Name) Was getting Married and my Air Conditioner went out(in Florida)also I very seldom played 4string any more However Just a Crazy Crazy Excellent sounding Bass. Ive had that Fodera , and now have a 5 string MTD. ( a semilar Priceed Royce Royce and a Bentley)Both Top of the Line But Different. Anywho I guess when you are able to Purchase these Elite Level Basses( Ken Smiths, MTDs, Fodera s, Alembic s, Usa Spectors,Surine s, ETC)It Becomes a Matter of Feel, Taste, And The Feature/ Execution of the Bass. Just a Another Excellent Wonderful Bass Review you ve Done. God Bless you Sir🙏🙏
PS Fodera. Installed Emperor 3 Band / Passive/ active, 4 inside Mid Switch Circut ( serial # 062)
This bass would be mine if I won the lottery! It's beautiful, it sounds amazing!, and it's well made. It's the Mercedez Benz of Bass. Dream bass, for sure!
Noice speaking of next jazz evolution have you tried those fender contemporary jazz
Great bass. Very expensive though. My mini van cost less than this when I bought it.
Happy Easter~ I'm surprised that the cat didn't show up for this. You should check out Wayne Jones' Fodera~ it's in all his UA-cam vids showing off his amazing amps.
That bass can do everything 😍💯🎸
Thanks!😎
I'd really wanna see one of these with a Lakeland style 3 way split-parallel-split switch.
I think you can achieve something closer to 60s style Jazz Bass when using the bridge inner coil with the neck outer coil, or a modern Ibanez style with the bridge outer coil and neck inner coil
It so funny to read some of these nea sayer comments. Like on TalkBass from people who probably never touched one no less play one. Yes they are expensive. But there is a reason they have an almost two year wait time for new basses.
Also not mentioned is the people behind Fodera. The best in the business. They will go out of their way to make sure you are happy. They even took me out to lunch when I was at their shop!
I actually had a Sire M5 which was a great bass. But when you played it you can feel the difference, it lacks the feel and the love that goes into making a handmade instrument. Like going from a Toyota Corolla which is a solid dependable car to a handmade Lexus LC 500!
Lovely bass. But not affordable at all. She puts you a smile, it's a good thing. Thank you for this review ;-)
Great man
For this review
Thanks for sharing
S.V
Just wondering what was the neck profile. By the Congrats on a great feature specially a Fodera. Great review also.
I realize I forgot to mention the nut width and profile! My bad! Neck profile is decently shallow modern C shape, similar to a 5 string Jazz honestly. A lot about this bass really felt like a normal jazz, just way better... but still normal. Sometimes with these high end instruments, you expect almost a foreign/different feel, but the Fodera feels like you can pick it up with no adjustment period.
Thanks for the reply as always Lobster. keep up the good work
The best thing about Fodera's is they make a Warwick look like a bargain
not the masterbuilt warwicks... them suckers get up to the $7k-$8k xD
Could not agree with you more.
It is a high gloss finish that has been rubbed down in the factory to a satin finish.
Thank you! That's REALLY neat and the effect is stellar. It feels almost 'soft', but it's also not soft.
@@LowEndLobster Yep/ They used all kinds of finishes over the years including oil, acrylic, water based eurythane and a finish that was sprayed on satin. But oil and eirathane wear off, acryllic is not that protective and spray on satin is full of particles which causes finishing issues. Years back they built a spray booth and now they do it htis way. Very protective as it is clear coat but with the gloss taken out.
@@rogermiller2742 What would you suggest to maintain this type of finish?
@@6strngbass Don't need to, that's the point. It is clea coat made to feel like satin.
Great bass tone
Fodera eh ? Olinto bass guitars, Premium made in America, deserve a serious look. Lobster, Thx for the Fodera review.
This ax is so versatile ⚡️🎸⚡️🤙🏾💯‼️
I do have a Fodera... They really are something very special... Rationally, worth the 7k? Probably not. Especially considering we are probably paying more than we should just for their Brooklyn Manufacturing and Overheads, and their entire marketing team... Consider the first Monarch Bass Victor Wooten received was selling for ... $900 ! (yep) at the time... Now, would I buy it again at the price I payed (full retail last year), Yes, 100%!
I sold my Fodera's about 5 years ago. Hands down best instruments I played but I'm now happy with my Ibanez SR505. I'd get another but even the used market the price is something I'm not willing to spend.
There's no way your Ibanez won't do the job the Fodera did in a band mix. Those super high end basses are definitely very nice pieces for the player but at the end of the day they are not justified strictly from a sound engineer, and ultimately audience, aural perception. I mean, didn't Marcus Miller get some of the best tones ever out of a not-so-great late 70s jazz ? :-)
Great presentation! At this point it's how much can you afford or want to spend.
I did notice that the B string had a bit of a tendency to collapse harmonically…which is one of those things you really, REALLY don’t want on such an expensive 5 string. What’s the point? Other than that, the rest of the instrument sounds impeccable. That preamp, the construction and the overall flexibility are top notch. The B string situation would keep me away from this bass, personally…but if it were a 4 string, it would be one of the nicer sounding 4 strings I’ve heard.
It’s sound ok and sure feels great.
I’m just not a fan of dual coil pickups. I kinda like more the emg PJ sound. But sure a great bass.
To my ears sound much better than MTD, I don't know why a 4 - it deserves a 5 for sure. I still think MTD's 535 electronics seems to be a better quality. I am on the market for a boutique bass to add to my collection. What I have learned so far is that if you like a Music Man, modern and brighter tones go for an MTD. If you like a more a classic, richer Fender Jazz and maybe Precision spice to it, go for a Fodera or F Bass. If you like a full vintage, thicker tone go for a Sire or Warwick. I havent researched other brands yet. Sadowsky Custom seems to be a good option too
We need Fodera vs MTD!l
Already filmed ;)
@@LowEndLobster yay, thanks 🙏
Any other basses you have played that are up to a similar standard of workmanship, and are less expensive/better value?
Fodera seem like amazing basses, they are stunning, sound great, and people always say they are very easy to play and very comfortable.
However you can say that on many other custom shop bass companies, with many of them being cheaper than Fodera.
I feel like Foderas cost that much because they are based in NYC (which is expensive), and because quite a few people *will* buy their basses regardless of the price.
Kind of like how many other companies have high prices, because they know that people will buy it regardless.
I would love to be able to play a Fodera one day, but I can say the same about Sadowsky, F-Bass, Mayones and many more.
Heck, the only reason I got to play an expensive Canadian made Dingwall is because I live in the city where they are made and one time they had a small event showcasing some of their basses in one of the city's guitar shops!
I played a 5 string Afterburner II (the semi hollow one) and it cost about 7,000 CAD which is about 5,500 USD, and while it played like a dream and sounded great, I didn't feel like I could pay that much for a bass when my Warwick that I paid about 3500 CAD played just as good!
Long story short, I'm sure that Foderas and the likes all sound incredible and play great, but you can get other basses that will play as good and sound as good for half the price, if not even less...And that way you can have more than one of them XD
Great video nonetheless Lobster :D
Well said. Foderas are wonderful instruments (but I played a few, not many, mind you, but more than one or two, that were sub par, and by a long shot) but really expensive.
Of course the relation between price and perceived quality is an exponential function, at a certain point even a minimum amount "quality" might add a bangload of money. IE a brazilian rosewood fingerboard is that much of upgrade in terms of tonal quality? How many people would be able to identify it in a blind test?
A local luthier, unknown outside of Italy, built me a bass that plays as good as any Fodera for a fraction of the price, and I got to personally handpick every single piece of wood and hardware that went into its construction (no brazilian rosewood, of course), so I totally agree with your last statement.
Also going local has the great advantage to let you have a deeper understanding of the construction process. In the above example, the luthier had me "tone test" (not sure I'm translating correctly) each piece of wood, to let me choose what was best for what I had in mind.
@@Chris-dp1el That's really cool, what is the name of the company/builder?
You can get basses that sound as good as your $3500 example for half of that price as well. My point is we are well into the realm of diminishing returns and you buy a Fodera (or likewise) as a flex, not because it's a good value.
@@57precision I wouldn't necessarily say it's a flex, and if people wanna buy it then they can go ahead, just saying that there are wonderful options for half if not less than the price these basses go for :)
@@57precision being an old dude, I think the diminishing returns factor is even more evident today. Lower/mid priced instruments now sports a quality I would have expected to find in high end or even boutique basses 20/30 years ago.
But I agrre with Martyr Of Grenth, boutique basses aren't necessarily a flex. Sometimes they are the only option available for certain needs of a specific musician. Do you want to sound like Anthony Jackson? Better start saving now, there isn't a single bass out there that has that timbre. ;-)
First Carl Thompson then Fodera I think next bass should be Wal Mk1
The dream!
A Canadian Dingwall, Zon, Mtd
Sell everything- buy one of these!
Why can't everyone do like Dingwall and add magnets for covers to be easily taken off? 😭
*may or may not have done something stupid and done a trade in for a used NG-*
I feel that. MTD has that as an option, and mine has that. Such a great feature. Also, CONGRATS! You're gonna love the NG.
@@LowEndLobster I have seen an MTD with that option once or twice, the same unit at a nearby music store. And I'm actually waiting on my brother to bring it from his PO box since I couldn't get anything shipped to mine...i have a couple cheap ibanez and Squier basses but I'm sure the jump will be massive with the Dingwall haha
Very cool but way out of my price range. Thanks for the fairly rare close detailed look at a Fodera.
Now do a comparison video to an Ali Express Fauxdera!
I love bass guitars. Got a few nice ones but I realise that if you want one with those rich overtones and clarity, you need to be willing to dish out at least $5-6k for a 4 string, like this Fodera as an ‘entry level bass’.
Leveling up to the sound of the through neck Fodera or Ken Smith, it’s at least $8.5k
I need to strike the national lottery!!! 😂
Great review as always! Have you ever reviewed a Maruszczyk bass?
Thank you! Nope, and no plans to.
@@LowEndLobster any reason for not wanting to?
@@AndresGarcia-kj3cr Yeah, the builder has some pretty abhorrent views certain topics (human rights and the pandemic) which I don't want to support on my platform.
It's my platform at the end of the day... There are plenty of other small boutique shops out there from better people without hateful views, and I'd rather spend my time focusing on those.
@@gabrielesquaratti5709 What is a sjw?
Nice
Thanks!
That’s nice 🤩
Do an Alembic next ;)
I used to have a 1973 Series 1 about 16-17 years ago. It was SO HEAVY, chugged batteries, and had the weirdest neck profile I've ever felt hahaha. I'd love to check out a modern one though!
Took the words right out of my mouth😁🤘🏽
@@LowEndLobster Check out a 1995 or newer Alembic. Love the Channel Lobster🦞, kick ass content as always!!😁🤘🏽🤘🏽🤘🏽
15:59 is my dreaming tone
I’d love to get the Emperor Standard 4 string but how can one justify it when only play in bedroom. As a gigging musician, possible to justify it. Nmind … just dream and watch UA-cam. 🤣😂
If my boat comes in, I’ll get one on day 2 😂
Sweet!
No battery door??? Why lol
I want that shirt (and that bass).
Wow!
*HighEndLobster
... I'll see myself out
I dont think that there is any better bass than fodera i think it desrve 5 what ever enjoy
Love your reviews but, there is no entry level Fodera. They are all made with the same attention to detail. Some people like solid colors, some like a basic p and some value exotic woods. The quality and craftsmanship does not waiver regardless of model.
Man, there is no way a high quality Ibanez bass, that has a neck though and battery cavity, isn’t a better value at 1/3 the price. I would need to have some lottery money the be able to buy this bass! Haha
And if you think Fodera basses are expensive, look at Alembic's top line basses.
I had a 1973 Series 1 for a little bit, a VERY weird bass. This was way before the channel. I wish I could make a vid on it!
@@LowEndLobster It would make for a really superb video, since no one does much on them. They're so crazy expensive but a review of the phantom power and the tones it offers would be really interesting, but a review video isn't worth the eight grand buy in, unless someone has another loaner that they'd be interested in seeing featured by you.
@@offbeatbassgear I bought mine used for like $3k around 2005. It weighed like 14 lbs, was HUGE, and chugged batteries (unless you brought the little power adapter box with you). The neck also had 0 taper. Same dimensions at the 12th fret as the 1st. Very odd instrument. I hope I come across one (that I can borrow) some day!
@@LowEndLobster You know, if you're looking for something to review that isn't done to death, I'd look at the Squier Bass VI or an eight string that's somewhat affordable. The Riot Eight from Schecter comes to mind.
Don’t now what it is about Foderas…sometimes I love the tone..sometimes, not so much…
Get the fretless standard!!
That bass sound soo ridiculous. Never wanted to be a fan of Fodera lol... But damn!
Fodera basses are obviously very well crafted and very nice basses. Having said that, however, even if money weren't an issue and I was a billionnaire, multiple thousand bucks for an electric instrument is beyond crazy for me. Especially considering that, realistically, it's not anything that special. Diminishing returns and all. Not trashing owners, anyone can do whatever they want with their money but yeah, not for me, thank you. And to be fair, I think the same of MusicMan or even Fender.
So for professional orchestral instrument money you can get...a thing that sounds like a modern jazz bass. Ok!
Top
Fodera basses aren't consistent in tone imo! Sharay Reed, Felix Pastorius and Richard Bona own Fodera basses that sound incredible.
Besides Fodera on the headstock, I didn't hear any magic coming for that bass!
That is absolutely correct! If you want basses that all sound the same, get a Fender. Except for the Standard Series, no two Fodera basses are the same. Each custom Fodera is built specifically for the customer. They work with each customer to help tailor the sound they are looking for. That is where Fodera's incredible knowledge of tone woods come into play. Victor Wooten's bass does not sound like Anthony Jackson's bass. Anthony Jackson's bass doesn't sound like James Genus bass and so on. That is why they are "Custom" basses. I have owned three Fodera's including the one in this video. Not one sounded the same, but all sounded incredible!
Meh. I had a Fodera. Pure hype. Sold it.
🙄 sorry to be a dick, but
granted,… It probably feels great and it’s built with the best stuff, & blah blah. but $6000-$7000 for that thing!?, and when you started playing, it just sounded _(to my ears)_ like any other $800 ‘jazz bass’ on the market 🤷🏼♂️
The quality is stunning but i gotta say, just sounds like a ‘polite’ jazz bass and a bit….unexciting.