Lighter weight SB-2?

timber22 · #1 04-02-2009, 07:15 AM

I have an SB-2 Tribute and I love the feel and tone. It's a kick-a** P-bass as those of you on this forum know. The only problem is at 9 lbs, it's just a little heavy. Not bad, but I wish it were a pound lighter. I've had back surgery and have arthritis in my neck, so lighter weight is a good thing for me.
Is there a certain year(s) or model (USA vs Tribute) that are known to be lighter? Or do they randomly vary in weight like some other brands? I may buy another one if it were the right one.
I'm not sure, but I believe mine is around a 2003 vintage. I have a comfort strapp on it which helps. And, I know I could also mod it with things like ultralite tuners but I'd rather not do that.

**craigb** · #2 04-02-2009, 07:28 AM

In my experience they vary. The Trib SB2s I've had seemed to range between 9 and 10 lbs but I have had a couple of Trib JB2s that were 8.something lbs. The US SB2s I've had ranged from 8 to 10+ lbs. So with some patience you'd probably be able to find a US SB2 around there.

Weight is an important question to ask about any G&L - they vary a lot.

One option you do have is that you can buy the MFD split-coil separately and stick it any bass that has a P pickup without any routing. I picked up an SX short scale P for my son to learn on and stuck an MFD P in it to improve the sound. It's not exactly G&L quality and doesn't have the other features (saddle lock bridge, etc.) but it sounds pretty good for what it is. So if you can find a P-style bass that is light enough and you like you can always stick an MFD in it.

timber22 · #3 04-02-2009, 07:52 AM

Thanks, Craig. That is an option. Do the pickups sell directly from G&L?

**craigb** · #4 04-02-2009, 08:52 AM

They aren't in their online store right now, it seems to be hit or miss what's listed there.

Any G&L dealer should be able to order them for you. The one I installed I picked up from the TB classifieds.

TDR1138 · #5 04-02-2009, 03:36 PM

FWIW, my 03 Tribby SB-2 is a little under 8 1/2 lbs... Lightest bass I own.

timber22 · #6 04-02-2009, 05:16 PM

I'll keep on the lookout for a light one. Or maybe put hipshot ultralite tuners on mine.

fendertweed · #7 04-02-2009, 07:00 PM

my u.s. sb-2 [~'97] is 8.4 lbs.