Hi guys I've come into a dilemma whether to choose the Perforner by spector (5 strings) or the Rockbass by warwick standard (4 strings). I really dont care about the string numbers but in term of the pure sound quality, which one will do a better job? After all, I'm going to get a preamp for it whether its a rocks or performer. In term of sound, body and wood quality which one will gets a better results? Thanks a lot!! I gotta decide this fast.
I have a performer, and am quite fond of it. What pickups does the rockbass have? If it's an active jazz, then I would go with that. Do you have/ need a 5 string?
Thanks for the reply Splods! It got 2 humbucker pups, they called it "MEC vintage humbuckers". Actually I got mistaken about the electric, they're both passive not active, so cut out the active/passive questioning but after all I'm going to get a preamp for it (whenever which one I choose). As I said in the beginning, no. of strings doesn't matter at all, I'm deeply focus on the sound, wood and body qualities only.
If it's a newer model Rockbass, with the 2pc bridge, then the quality level is going to be a fair bit higher than the Performer. The original RB was similar to Performer in that they came with more flat style bodies that werr painted solid colors, and with entry grade hardware+electronics, but Warwick wasn't happy with them and improved the line up. Now there are better woods and finishes, along with the same hardware that the German models get. The MEC pickups are so-so, but they're better than the "SSD" buckers. The Rockbass also has a 5pc laminated neck, which is going to be more stable than the Performer. The RB line is more on par with the Spector Legend series, than the Performers.
Thanks for the reply MarkoYYZ! Yes, I think its a newer model, btw. here's the pic the seller sent to me: So, you're suggesting me to get the streamer over the performer? P.S. I'm a bit heading for the streamer now
OP, you completely lost me. You say number of strings doesn't matter, just sound and wood. Then you say you're going to add a preamp. You can buy a bass that feels and plays good and try to make it sound better through upgrades. You can't add a fifth string (unless you are Ric5). Usually number of strings is closer to the top of the "needs list" than what kind of wood it's made of. As to your original question, I pick neither but that's just me.
Warwick. I'm not really a big fan of the Performer series after having one, and it was a lemon. I've heard good things about the Rockbass series as of late.
Thanks for the fast reply Immigrant! Can you confirm the pic that I posted if its the newer model or not. I'm pretty sure I'll go for the Warwick now.
I don't see any pictures... Also, the RB Streamer is the entry model, out of all Warwicks. I think the body is lightweight, like Paulownia or something, but it would still be a notch above the Performer even if it's made in China - much like people consider the Chinese made Classic Vibe Squiers as better instruments than the Indonesian made Vintage Modifieds. There are exceptions in all cases, but with the right oversight at the factories, they can make great stuff.
Here is a terrible video I made showing off an old Performer I have. It certainly growls more than a rockbass would, but it doesn't do much more.
RockBass, and by a mile too. Like someone already said, the new rockbass line is on par with the Spector legend series, LTD 400 series, Mexico/japan Fender. awesome little basses.