please help! Sadowsky content

Dragan · #1 03-10-2013, 09:32 AM

I have oportunity to buy a Sadowsky jazz bass,it's 1989 model,serial number around 100. from what I know it's a basswood body. I also hear rumours that Sadowsky used Warmoth parts in the past and things.

Can I get advice from Sadowsky experienced players and experts, is this a good deal,i.e. something I should go for?
I will test the bass ofcourse in a few days,but what is the story behind first models and what are your experience (old vs new Sadowsky basses)

I think mr Sadowsky is member here so his input would be also greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

DaveAceofBass · #2 03-10-2013, 09:38 AM

I think the newer models are probably way better. The old ones are probably not as special...mostly parts basses with an older version of the famous Sadowsky preamp.

Dr. Cheese · #3 03-10-2013, 01:19 PM

I think you need to go to the Sadowsky website and e-mail Roger Sadowsky himself. He has records, and he can tell you what you need to know about how the bass was constructed.

Dragan · #4 03-10-2013, 01:44 PM

thanx guys!

Got2SadowskyNYC · #5 03-10-2013, 01:48 PM

The Guys in the shop are very responsive. I think youll be surprised at how easy they are to get in touch with. You could even call.

Dragan · #6 03-10-2013, 01:54 PM

yup,I contacted Roger once about outboard preamp I bought back then. He replied in a matter of minutes. But I wanted players' input as well.

bikeplate · #7 03-10-2013, 05:01 PM

The present preamp started being standard mid 1990 I believe. This bass might have a different pre. I don't think they've ever used Warmoth parts when building new instruments

**cfsporn** · #8 03-10-2013, 05:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Got2SadowskyNYC

The Guys in the shop are very responsive. I think youll be surprised at how easy they are to get in touch with. You could even call.

+1. I went into their shop to buy some strings, and they invited me to check out their selection of basses and guitars. I even saw Rodger there!

20db pad · #9 03-10-2013, 05:15 PM

I have a '90 Sadowsky, purchased that year. They're a little different than current offerings, in terms of hardware, body style (edges) and neck attachment design, but the DNA code of what makes a Sadowsky a Sadowsky is all there. It was a great bass back then and has matured into a really great bass.

My '90 has a Bartolini TCT preamp, which always sounded a little more raw and aggressive than the current pre.

Mr_Dave · #10 03-10-2013, 05:31 PM

I had a '91 Sadowsky with a fairly low serial that was a killer bass, light, responsive and had the 'Sadowsky sound'

ClassicJazz · #11 03-10-2013, 07:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dragan

I have oportunity to buy a Sadowsky jazz bass,it's 1989 model,serial number around 100. from what I know it's a basswood body. I also hear rumours that Sadowsky used Warmoth parts in the past and things.

Can I get advice from Sadowsky experienced players and experts, is this a good deal,i.e. something I should go for?
I will test the bass ofcourse in a few days,but what is the story behind first models and what are your experience (old vs new Sadowsky basses)

I think mr Sadowsky is member here so his input would be also greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

If the serial number is around 100...it is allot older than a 1989. I have a 1988 Standard and the serial number is 461.

Mine has a Swamp Ash body and has been upgraded a number of times over the years at the Sadowsky shop (original preamp was replaced and I think PUs, and I had the VTC put in). I don't know if the body and neck were made by Warmoth, and frankly I don't care. It is the magic that is done in the Sadowsky shop on the raw components that makes these basses special. Lots of hands on craftsmanship and love go into these instruments. It should not sway you if the body and neck where made at Warmoth or the current sub-contractor they use....it is the end result that matters!

Early Sadowsky basses are killer instruments in the their own right. I love mine.

rskxqjjw · #12 03-10-2013, 07:31 PM

The old ones are probably not as special.

ClassicJazz · #13 03-10-2013, 07:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rskxqjjw

The old ones are probably not as special.

In what way?

**svtb15** · #14 03-10-2013, 08:00 PM

I have seen very old sadowsky basses made from early ESP parts.... I had a 4 string very lightweight Sadowsky Jazz in 87 or so. It was stamped Anderson in the Neck and body... One of the best basses i ever played.. it had the Bartolini TCT preamp...
Not sure about Warmoth though...

Munjibunga · #15 03-10-2013, 08:10 PM

Does it really matter whose CNC router cut the body? The magic happens in the shop.

ClassicJazz · #16 03-10-2013, 08:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Munjibunga

Does it really matter whose CNC router cut the body? The magic happens in the shop.

+10000

Dragan · #17 03-11-2013, 01:56 AM

thanx guys again. I will check that bass for sure, if it has "magic" I wont hesitate. I played just one newer model some years ago and it was KILLER, and this one looks great too. Can't wait to try it!

Dragan · #18 03-11-2013, 07:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ClassicJazz

If the serial number is around 100...it is allot older than a 1989. I have a 1988 Standard and the serial number is 461.

My bad, I misheard the owner. serial is 543. here are the pics:

tonybassboss · #19 03-11-2013, 07:49 AM

That's my ex Sadowsky...yes..Warmoth body, EMG pups... heavy bass...good one, but not that good as a new ones...

Dragan · #20 03-11-2013, 09:03 AM

Hey Tonchi! Yes I know its yours, sorry for not asking you first. I thought you were sold it too fast (like most of your basses,you GASZILLA!!!!)