Robin basses.

Asomodai · #1 10-17-2012, 06:20 PM

Hey guys.

I was wondering if anyone owns a Robin bass? Specifically a Robin Freedom.

Just wondering what the neck was like and what was the sound like?

Lusting after a freedom 2 but nearly impossible to find!

What sort of value do they go for?

Cheers!

Rob.

Asomodai · #2 10-18-2012, 03:14 PM

Bump. Anyone?

smcd · #3 10-18-2012, 03:27 PM

You just missed an ebay auction for a Freedom I.

His asking price of $825 is very high. Robin basses usually run between $400-$700, depending on the model and whether or not it's an import. The imports are priced on the lower end. Freedom basses are rare, but they do come up for sale now and again. Just keep an eye on ebay.

I have a US-made Ranger Jaybird, which is very different than a Freedom bass, so I haven't anything to add regarding the neck shape and sound of a Freedom.

lsabina · #4 12-28-2012, 03:51 PM

I just picked up a Freedom II from the Indianapolis Sam Ash. Sounds great and I love the wider neck with the rosewood fingerboard.

lsabina · #5 01-01-2013, 05:46 PM

Played New Year's Eve gig last night with the new Freedom II. A very versatile bass!

smcd · #6 01-01-2013, 06:35 PM

Nice bass.

There's a Freedom I with (painfully dated) factory graphics on ebay for a reasonable price.

throbgod13 · #7 01-02-2013, 03:16 PM

some of the necks are just unstable.. they just refuse to take a set up..

i had a 1988 Freedom II..

rojo412 · #8 01-02-2013, 03:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by throbgod13

some of the necks are just unstable.. they just refuse to take a set up..

That's all I've ever heard about Robins. Too bad, because they look cool.
I know that Tommy Shannon played one for a while (SRV's bassist, Double Trouble).

smcd · #9 01-02-2013, 08:00 PM

The guy that played in that band that had that hit "Breakfast At Tiffany's" played a Robin.
Also the guy who played in the Fabulous Thunderbirds

I have a Houston-made Robin (on the right). The neck is perfect.

hotrodjohn · #10 01-02-2013, 08:14 PM

you should contact the source:

www.rockinrobinguitars.com

lsabina · #11 01-03-2013, 07:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by throbgod13

some of the necks are just unstable.. they just refuse to take a set up..

i had a 1988 Freedom II..

I guess I'll find out over time if this is the case. So far all looks good and it's set up with nice low action. Mine has a micro tilt adjustment t screw and based on the 1 3/4" neck at nut width and chrome hardware, I'm assuming it's a fairly early one from 1985 or so. It really does feel and sound great, and for a good price.

lsabina · #12 01-03-2013, 03:48 PM

Freedom IIs were pretty expensive basses back in the day...