I like that Warwick has incorporated some of their features on the Sadowskys like the adjustable nut and easy access control cavity plate.
Enjoy the benefits of a premium membership!
Upgrade Account
-
TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
Join free Log in
Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.
2023 Sadowsky Metro Express Basses
- Thread starter kevbassman
- Start date
I like that Warwick has incorporated some of their features on the Sadowskys like the adjustable nut and easy access control cavity plate.
On another thread, someone addressed the elephant in the room. Roger Sadowsky is in his seventies, under no circumstances was he going to continue producing basses at his NYC shop the way he was for a long period of time. Like Ken Smith working out a deal with Brubaker, the company's management was going to change hands in some manner. The Warwick deal was of Mr. Sadowsky's own choosing, and no, everything will not be the same. This has happened sooner or later to every successful company.
Last edited:
Not at all the same.
Sadowsky was looking for a way to go back to the bench focusing on NYC custom shop instruments, dealing with direct customers only. Warwick took over all the rest - all Metro lines, Master Built line, Custom Shop instruments (may cost more than a NYC), parts shop and worldwide marketing. It seems that Roger's involvement is limited and they basically do whatever they want within their agreement, I assume.
Smith lost one of his top guys at the shop who had passed. That's what led to outsourcing the building process to Brubaker. The basses where almost identical, all materials came from Smith. This collaboration ended few months ago and Smith basses are now being built in PA again.
It is the same in that Sadowsky made a choice of what to do with his company and so did Ken Smith. My point is that it was his choice; you don't have to like it.
So, following your line of thought, it is also the same as Mike Pedulla who also made a choice of what to do with his company; you don't have to like it either.
I for one have been looking at getting some kind of PJ 5 string at 'budget' pricing. I've owned Sire before but I think the Sadowsky has moved to the top of my list. I'm glad they have corrected their previous issues and I'll be loading up the 'gig account' in hopes to snag one of these down the road….
First I have to say I got this Metro Express bass for a steal $550 shipped. It was the B stock with stamped used on back of headstock. But essentially the 2022 bass was new.
Initially I put some flats on, fixed a stripped string tree screw and control plate screw inserted really sideways, I relocated upper strap button (helps more with any neck dive). I couldn't stand the original logo, so I ordered a Sadowsky water slide logo and after 3 days of lacquer and sanding it came out perfect without any visible logo edges.
The neck finish gives me a "made in China" first impression but that's subjective and actually has a very nice feel and leveled fret board, notes really sing. I don't like lines on my fretless basses which is one thing that drew me to this bass. The Sadowsky tuners are a bit rougher and a bit heavier than Lic. Hipshot, but work.
Overall very impressed, has killer tone and plays incredibly! I have a first gig with it next week, I'm sure it will do just fine..
Initially I put some flats on, fixed a stripped string tree screw and control plate screw inserted really sideways, I relocated upper strap button (helps more with any neck dive). I couldn't stand the original logo, so I ordered a Sadowsky water slide logo and after 3 days of lacquer and sanding it came out perfect without any visible logo edges.
The neck finish gives me a "made in China" first impression but that's subjective and actually has a very nice feel and leveled fret board, notes really sing. I don't like lines on my fretless basses which is one thing that drew me to this bass. The Sadowsky tuners are a bit rougher and a bit heavier than Lic. Hipshot, but work.
Overall very impressed, has killer tone and plays incredibly! I have a first gig with it next week, I'm sure it will do just fine..
Attachments
Last edited:
I have been using non NYC sadowsky's for years. Have owned a Japanese Metro Modern 5-24, a Japanese MetroExpress MV5, and now have a RSD Verdine. My RSD is a early run, but didn't have the hum issues associated with the earliest models. The fretwork is fine too. I also purchased an RSD B-stock MV5 black metallic w Maple board off reverb, but that went right back to the vendor when the tuning gear fell off the headstock during a string swap. It turned out, the screw holding the tuning gear was missing. And the gear simply fell off the bass, when I de-tuned the B string. More on that in a moment.
So, suffice it to say, I've experienced the quality levels of all the non US Sadowsky's ( outside of German models).
The Japanese Metro 5-24, and the Japanese MetroExpress MV5 were the same quality as the NYC models I used to play in the Brooklyn shop. Although the Brooklyn models were noticeably lighter weight than the non chambered metro. But that 5-24 was killer. And it DIDN'T have a VTC. But, the sound of that Bass was not designed for warmth. It was snappy, and hi-fi. So I never missed it. Lost my job, Had to sell it. Still regret it to this day.
A few years later, when the Japanese MetroExpress came out, I pre ordered a MV5 immediately. I got the email it arrived and ran to the shop to play it. They even tweaked the truss rod for me, right there. Played it for years. Also, essentially identical to a NYC model without chambering, but wood, hardware, electronics, build quality was identical. Now that bass was $1975 new. So, even though it was a "production" model, it had flawless quality, and a VTC, of course. When I decided to stop playing 5's and go back to 4's exclusively, I sold it for the same $1975 I paid for it. So, basically free bass rental for years. Beautiful bass.
Fast forward to 2021. I ordered a Verdine from Thomann because I couldn't find a single one in the US. When it arrived, I saw a piece of masking tape sticking out of the neck joint. I had to remove then neck to get it out. Upon re-installing the neck, I caused a tiny chip in the finish at the neck pocket. Not a good start to the RSD experience. Fortunately, the fretwork was good, the electronics were quiet, and it set up well. But without the VTC it simply couldn't be tamed. I ordered one from Ashley in TN, Framus' US distribution hub, and installed it. Perfection. That bass has been my number 1 since then. 7lb 4oz light. Sounds better than anything I've A/B'd it against. I sent a note to Roger, Ashley and Hans Peter regarding the quality issues on both the Verdine and MV5. They appreciate the feedback, and sent me a cool Sadowsky T Shirt, which I wear proudly on Jam nights.
The MV5 had shipped with the screw missing from the tuner gear. The vendor stated it came from the factory that way to the best of their knowledge. That was the only reason they took it back as it was a B-stock, there was a no return policy, but because it was considered defective, I was able to send it back. I actually, put a screw in the gear and took it to a gig. A/B'd it against the Verdine, and without the VTC, found it too twangy to be practical. The Verdine, again proved to be superior.
Now these 2023 models seem to be far closer to a Japanese Sadowsky then ever before. The Hardware appears to be the same as the German Metros ( Larger bridge saddles, Hipshot string tree) and… I think.. they now have hum cancelling pickups(?). The roasted necks are a nice touch and were never an option on the old metros. And the logo, well…I do prefer seeing the designers name on the headstock. So there's that. Ironically, its harder to see a black "Sadowsky" emblem on a roasted neck, which gives me a chuckle. Maybe should'a did it in white? Or Silver… I don' know. And the "invisible fret technology" is cool too, and an absolute improvement over an RSD. (If they're invisible…how come I can SEE them?)
I think, once you install a VTC, that you'll have as close to a genuine Sadowsky experience that you can have at 30% of the price of a German model. Time will tell.
I've been really lucky with this Verdine. I musta got a great piece of wood, because it really has turned out to be a fantastic bass.
So, suffice it to say, I've experienced the quality levels of all the non US Sadowsky's ( outside of German models).
The Japanese Metro 5-24, and the Japanese MetroExpress MV5 were the same quality as the NYC models I used to play in the Brooklyn shop. Although the Brooklyn models were noticeably lighter weight than the non chambered metro. But that 5-24 was killer. And it DIDN'T have a VTC. But, the sound of that Bass was not designed for warmth. It was snappy, and hi-fi. So I never missed it. Lost my job, Had to sell it. Still regret it to this day.
A few years later, when the Japanese MetroExpress came out, I pre ordered a MV5 immediately. I got the email it arrived and ran to the shop to play it. They even tweaked the truss rod for me, right there. Played it for years. Also, essentially identical to a NYC model without chambering, but wood, hardware, electronics, build quality was identical. Now that bass was $1975 new. So, even though it was a "production" model, it had flawless quality, and a VTC, of course. When I decided to stop playing 5's and go back to 4's exclusively, I sold it for the same $1975 I paid for it. So, basically free bass rental for years. Beautiful bass.
Fast forward to 2021. I ordered a Verdine from Thomann because I couldn't find a single one in the US. When it arrived, I saw a piece of masking tape sticking out of the neck joint. I had to remove then neck to get it out. Upon re-installing the neck, I caused a tiny chip in the finish at the neck pocket. Not a good start to the RSD experience. Fortunately, the fretwork was good, the electronics were quiet, and it set up well. But without the VTC it simply couldn't be tamed. I ordered one from Ashley in TN, Framus' US distribution hub, and installed it. Perfection. That bass has been my number 1 since then. 7lb 4oz light. Sounds better than anything I've A/B'd it against. I sent a note to Roger, Ashley and Hans Peter regarding the quality issues on both the Verdine and MV5. They appreciate the feedback, and sent me a cool Sadowsky T Shirt, which I wear proudly on Jam nights.
The MV5 had shipped with the screw missing from the tuner gear. The vendor stated it came from the factory that way to the best of their knowledge. That was the only reason they took it back as it was a B-stock, there was a no return policy, but because it was considered defective, I was able to send it back. I actually, put a screw in the gear and took it to a gig. A/B'd it against the Verdine, and without the VTC, found it too twangy to be practical. The Verdine, again proved to be superior.
Now these 2023 models seem to be far closer to a Japanese Sadowsky then ever before. The Hardware appears to be the same as the German Metros ( Larger bridge saddles, Hipshot string tree) and… I think.. they now have hum cancelling pickups(?). The roasted necks are a nice touch and were never an option on the old metros. And the logo, well…I do prefer seeing the designers name on the headstock. So there's that. Ironically, its harder to see a black "Sadowsky" emblem on a roasted neck, which gives me a chuckle. Maybe should'a did it in white? Or Silver… I don' know. And the "invisible fret technology" is cool too, and an absolute improvement over an RSD. (If they're invisible…how come I can SEE them?)
I think, once you install a VTC, that you'll have as close to a genuine Sadowsky experience that you can have at 30% of the price of a German model. Time will tell.
I've been really lucky with this Verdine. I musta got a great piece of wood, because it really has turned out to be a fantastic bass.
Last edited:
Here's a vid from Jayme Lewis with a pj 4 preproduction Metro Express without the roasted neck that will be in stores soon.
https://www.youtube.com/live/RKsIFIglylQ?feature=share
https://www.youtube.com/live/RKsIFIglylQ?feature=share
I voted yes.
When can I expect my beta tester? Should I PM you my address????
When can I expect my beta tester? Should I PM you my address????
I am 'Old 69 in September and I wouldn't by RSD headstock
Always wanted NYC
Also wouldn't buy G&L because of headstock
Only CLF version
I continue to be 'Shallow'even in my old age
I am 'Old 69 in September and I wouldn't by RSD headstock
Always wanted NYC
Also wouldn't buy G&L because of headstock
Only CLF version
I continue to be 'Shallow'even in my old age
God bless you and buy what you want.
Played my Metro Express fretless for the first time the other night with my Fleetwood Mac tribute band. Used it for one last song at the end "The Chain", sound man and fans kept saying how killer it sounded. I'm very pleased so far, but I might still swap out tuners for some some USA or Lic Hipshots. After lubricant and adjusting on the OE tuners they are still rough and inconsistent feeling.
Swapped out the OE turners for an older set of Hipshot lic I had. Last night I was trying to quickly check tuning before last song and I can tell ya those damn things felt horrible. I was trying get it up to tune but they were super inconsistent with those little gaps in-between turns. Put the Hipshots on today and smooth as butter, and lighter too, headstock feels light as a feather now!
I pre ordered one! Have to give them a chance, especially with the updates, also got it for the same as the RSD in Canada. September 15th is the estimated shipping date. There are a few videos of the new models on YouTube but they are from our Tai bass brothers. Most important aspect of an instrument for myself is how well it plays/feels and sets up, I'll sound like me no matter what I'm playing on as long as it has good electronics. I'm curious about the spherical fret ends. Also wish they include more specs such as single vs dual action truss rod.
I am not certain if this has been brought up so….
I checked the new Metro Express fretless basses on Sweetwater…. None of them came with the Ebony Board on my 2022 model…the new ones all have the Pau Ferro boards.
That's a shame as the Ebony board on my PJ5 Fretless is wonderful
I checked the new Metro Express fretless basses on Sweetwater…. None of them came with the Ebony Board on my 2022 model…the new ones all have the Pau Ferro boards.
That's a shame as the Ebony board on my PJ5 Fretless is wonderful
I noticed that as well, I'm not sure when they switched as some of the old advertisements from a year or two ago say Pau Ferro or Morado for fretless, but not really although mine looks ebony to me. And I'm really happy it! There is a slight hump behind the 1st thru 3 RD fret tho, nothing I can't live with but my thumb certainly feels it..
Last edited:
As long as it's a hard wood lol, ebony is not uniform black, it's usually dyed to appear black…… looking forward to see how the morado/pau ferro fingerboard compares to the one on my Dingwall SJ5 custom exotic. I wish more manufacturers would change to « vintage/banjo » size fret wire as a standard ( Dingwall, Lakland …) I guess I'll find out how the medium jumbo size frets compare to my us fenders non vintage.
One important aspect a lot of players don't often talk about is colour contrast of the neck/fingerboard, do you prefer a darker neck or a lighter neck? I've gravitated towards a darker neck but prefer larger 3mm pearl side dot markers, not that I'm constantly looking where to place my fingers lmao it's kind of just « there », I think some manufacturers drop the ball when they cheap out with plastic side dots 1.5mm, pearloid isn't that expensive. Then again I trust my ears when I'm playing but a comfortable contrast helps, another reason to be excited about this bass coming in is the roasted neck (which appear really dark from what I've seen on YouTube)
One important aspect a lot of players don't often talk about is colour contrast of the neck/fingerboard, do you prefer a darker neck or a lighter neck? I've gravitated towards a darker neck but prefer larger 3mm pearl side dot markers, not that I'm constantly looking where to place my fingers lmao it's kind of just « there », I think some manufacturers drop the ball when they cheap out with plastic side dots 1.5mm, pearloid isn't that expensive. Then again I trust my ears when I'm playing but a comfortable contrast helps, another reason to be excited about this bass coming in is the roasted neck (which appear really dark from what I've seen on YouTube)
Latest posts
-
Selling a member that is not new, but only has 1 post?- Latest: monsterthompson
-
-
-
-
