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Checking out GC: Two Modes and a Fodera

Dr. Cheese

Dr. Cheese

Supporting Member
Mar 3, 2004
57,278
120,400
Metro St. Louis
#1






I had to run an errand in North St. Louis County, so I went by the Bridgeton GC for the first time in a few months. The first bass I saw a Mode 1605 and I continue to have a good opinion of this bass. It is light, so good, and plays well. Every bass I played today had loose pots, there must be some heavy handed people playing these basses!

The next bass I saw was a Fodera Imperial 4. This was the first time I was ever able to play a Fodera as much as I wanted to and I did not want to put it down. I can honestly say it is a good deal at $4,999, if you have the resources to buy it. The construction was as nice as any bass I have ever seen. The neck was super comfortable. The action was very nice, especially for bass hanging on the low racks in a very busy GC. The two big dual pots need tightening, but if anybody wants a nice Fodera at good price, look up this GC.

The Ibanez Mode 1000 was a good bass and great, but it needed a set up and had loose pots. I like every Mode I have played, I hope Ibanez gets the trussrod issues corrected.
 
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#3
My MDM1605's truss rod is perfectly fine.
Other MDM guitars from the store I bought from are also fine. The necks are all straight, and the playability is excellent.

Why do so many people think there's a problem with the neck adjuster?
Is this a common issue or an isolated case?
 
#4
hanker756954 said:
My MDM1605's truss rod is perfectly fine.
Other MDM guitars from the store I bought from are also fine. The necks are all straight, and the playability is excellent.

Why do so many people think there's a problem with the neck adjuster?
Is this a common issue or an isolated case?
Click to expand...
People post their experiences . It has not been an isolated incident.
 
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#6
MaxSpinrun said:
Have never played a Fodera, but constantly hear very good things about them! Many comment about how they are worth the price they payed.
Click to expand...
This is my personal experience. Especially buying used or not paying full new pricing. If you buy the right one, it’s like buying a bass that can do the job of 4-5 basses. They are so responsive to your technique and playing. If you have sloppy technique, it will expose that. It’s the most inspirational instrument I’ve ever played.

The problem is most people don’t cross paths with one. My only regret is not buying one sooner when they first caught my attention. That wasn’t until they released the Classic models . Coffee table fancy wood top instruments are not my thing.

If you ever find yourself in NY anywhere close to the shop, I suggest making an appointment to drop by and give some a try.
 
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#9
MaxSpinrun said:
Have never played a Fodera, but constantly hear very good things about them! Many comment about how they are worth the price they payed.
Click to expand...

This was either my second or third time playing a Fodera, but the first time I was able to get comfortable and play as long as I wanted to. I did not want to put it down. The sound was very good, but the playability of the bass was truly exceptional. It was just a joy to play, and with a few setup tweaks, it would be incredible.
 
#11
Dr. Cheese said:
This was either my second or third time playing a Fodera, but the first time I was able to get comfortable and play as long as I wanted to. I did not want to put it down. The sound was very good, but the playability of the bass was truly exceptional. It was just a joy to play, and with a few setup tweaks, it would be incredible.
Click to expand...
They practically play themselves. It’s like there is nothing to fight against . Super responsive instruments.
 
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#12
LadyLoveStingRay5 said:
They practically play themselves. It’s like there is nothing to fight against . Super responsive instruments.
Click to expand...

I remember, years ago, playing a 1959 Precision that blew me out of the water. I would love to compare the Fender side by side to the Fodera Monarch I played yesterday. People talk about vintage basses with mojo, but I think Fodera knows how to put mojo in every bass they make.
 
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#13
Dr. Cheese said:
I remember, years ago, playing a 1959 Precision that blew me out of the water. I would love to compare the Fender side by side to the Fodera Monarch I played yesterday. People talk about vintage basses with mojo, but I think Fodera knows how to put mojo in every bass they make.
Click to expand...
Fenders with mojo: 1/100

Music Man’s with mojo: 3/4

Fodera/Smith/Mtd’s with mojo 1/1 hahah
 
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