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Club Fbass (thread 12)

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After playing my third Fbass over a few months now I really can say I wish I found out about them sooner. Here a shot of it after a good setup and cleaning.
th_DSCF0760_zps22d3826e.jpg
 
What are the general sound and feel differences between VF5 and BN5 basses? I've heard clips, but it's hard to judge from those. My impression is that the BN5 would be thicker with more mids and less extreme highs, and could mimic a P bass a better. Am I in the ballpark? The BN5 *looks* more like a jazz/fusion instrument. Does it sound that way? Is it less aggressive and rock-friendly than the VF5? Is it more versatile? I'd like to hear from those who have owned both.

Specifically:
I have an ash/maple VF5, 70's position pickups.
How would this compare to an ash/Macassar ebony BN5?
With both pickups full on, is one likely to be more scooped than the other?

Thanks!
 
What are the general sound and feel differences between VF5 and BN5 basses? I've heard clips, but it's hard to judge from those. My impression is that the BN5 would be thicker with more mids and less extreme highs, and could mimic a P bass a better. Am I in the ballpark? The BN5 *looks* more like a jazz/fusion instrument. Does it sound that way? Is it less aggressive and rock-friendly than the VF5? Is it more versatile? I'd like to hear from those who have owned both.

Specifically:
I have an ash/maple VF5, 70's position pickups.
How would this compare to an ash/Macassar ebony BN5?
With both pickups full on, is one likely to be more scooped than the other?

Thanks!

I own two VF's (a 4 and a 5) and two BN's (also a 4 and a 5).

The necks are quite different (at least in standard form): 1-piece (VF) vs 3-piece (BN), 34" (VF) vs 34.5" (BN), 9" to 14" compound radius (VF) vs 10" to 16" (BN), 21 frets (VF) vs 22 (BN). The width at the nut is the same, though. The upper horn on the BN also extends further (pat the 11th fret) than the VF (12th fret), in part to accommodate that 34.5" scale and bring 1st position back a little closer.

The VF series is supposed to feel more similar to a vintage (Fender) instrument. Tonality is going to depend up on the woods used and the pickup/electronics options, but if I were to generalize, I find the BN series to be more smooth than the VF, in general. Conversely, I find the VF's to be a tad more aggressive. VF's now allow for the option of a P-bass or P/J setup, as well.
 
VF's now allow for the option of a P-bass or P/J setup, as well.


Yes I played a vf5 passive pj today at the Frankfurt Messe, I think I'm in love! Just a lovely light and easy to play bass that sounded really really pleasant aswell...

If anyone want to put their vf4 or bn4 up for sale anytime soon send me a pm.. I'm really into them as I need a modern feeling bass with vintage tones;) I think fbass is just the thing I need!
 
What are the general sound and feel differences between VF5 and BN5 basses?

A BN5 will have a slightly more authoritative tone but also smoother and more compressed. It's a more controlled sound than the VF, which is very much Fender in all aspects. The preamp seems to work a tiny bit better for the BN than the VF because of this.

My impression is that the BN5 would be thicker with more mids and less extreme highs, and could mimic a P bass a better. Am I in the ballpark?

Neither can mimic a P-bass because the neck pickup is in the traditional J position. Both models use humbuckers so you can dial in the neck to get more "brown".

The BN5 *looks* more like a jazz/fusion instrument. Does it sound that way?

Yes.

Is it less aggressive and rock-friendly than the VF5?

Yes.

Is it more versatile?

Yes.


Specifically:
I have an ash/maple VF5, 70's position pickups.
How would this compare to an ash/Macassar ebony BN5?
With both pickups full on, is one likely to be more scooped than the other?

No. Both are fat and juicy. To make a comparison to fruit, the VF is like a navel orange: tangy and acidic, where the BN is like a blood orange: sweet and mellow.
 
Thanks guys....I cant say enough about working with George and Marcel on these projects...they make things so easy...yet their depth of knowledge is very complex and extremely detailed...all I know is ...when these bass's arrive at my door...Perfection!!!
 
Hey guys! Just a heads up. I'm selling/trading my Fbass BN6. It's worn in, but is a champ! I would LOVE to trade it for a BN5 or 4. I may be open to other Fbasses as well. I just can't swing the 6. Ugh. It hurts my hands. Sucks.
 
Marcel have been very helpfull and nice to help me in my BN6 order.
Donovan is great also.
Fbass + Donovan = dream team

Thanks guys....I cant say enough about working with George and Marcel on these projects...they make things so easy...yet their depth of knowledge is very complex and extremely detailed...all I know is ...when these bass's arrive at my door...Perfection!!!
 
I can't do it. Every time I think I can't swing the six, I keep playing it. It just sucks that my fingers are so small.

I'm pulling my add again. LOL. I love this bass. I just get frustrated. To be honest, I'm not sure if it has anything to do with this bass though. I have tendinitis and grip issues, so I'm going to try and work on that.

I do have a few questions for you fellas though.

Ok. SO I really, really want to make this bass prettier. I mean I get the whole vintage type look, but would it be possible to buy replacement pick up covers for an Fbass, and keep the old ones tucked away somewhere?

I also need a set up again, I don't think my luthier did it right. I'm getting buzzing all over now. Weather has been horrible here, so that could play I role I suppose. I wish there was someone from Kansas City here that knew a good luthier. HINT HINT. :)

Last thing. I'm thinking of also getting a ramp for this guy. Where is the best place to get one for an Fbass?
 
I can't do it. Every time I think I can't swing the six, I keep playing it. It just sucks that my fingers are so small.

I'm pulling my add again. LOL. I love this bass. I just get frustrated. To be honest, I'm not sure if it has anything to do with this bass though. I have tendinitis and grip issues, so I'm going to try and work on that.

I do have a few questions for you fellas though.

Ok. SO I really, really want to make this bass prettier. I mean I get the whole vintage type look, but would it be possible to buy replacement pick up covers for an Fbass, and keep the old ones tucked away somewhere?

I also need a set up again, I don't think my luthier did it right. I'm getting buzzing all over now. Weather has been horrible here, so that could play I role I suppose. I wish there was someone from Kansas City here that knew a good luthier. HINT HINT. :)

Last thing. I'm thinking of also getting a ramp for this guy. Where is the best place to get one for an Fbass?

I don't know for sure but I think the PUP covers are glued on? Thought I read that somewhere. Maybe Marcel or somebody who knows for sure will chime in. Jim
 
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