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Fretless bass under 400

#21
I just picked up a Squier fretless Classic 60s Vibe Jazz on Reverb for just under $400. It was a floor model from a shop in Wisconsin, but in excellent condition.

If you're looking for brand new you may have to wait a while. I looked on the Fender web site for the Squier and they aren't delivering until later this year. Supply chain problems and all...
 
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#23
Nephilymbass said:
The first fretless I owned was a fender Mexican jazz. I picked it up used for around $300. I'd definitely recommend them. I prefer the jazz control layout for fretless
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Wow, Im glad I got mine when i did(ebay,early 2000s) mostly on a whim, wasnt about to yank the frets out a la Jaco P! was around $250 or so, Mexican Fender Jazz. nothing special ,but not Bad. I'd still buy Used online or at store/pawn if out there(seem rare).
 
#24
Rondo Music has some, and they have a good reputation here on TB. I have an old Brice fretless from them that is very high quality (incredible for the money). In the under $400 range, you'll probably be looking at their SX brand basses, and you'll probably need a good setup when it arrives. The SX basses are closer to $200, give or take.

There's also Stagg basses readily available on Reverb and eBay for $200 to $300 new. Afraid I can't comment on their quality though.

Edit: just checked RondoMusic.com. They only have one fretless rn, and it's out of your price range. Seems like their offerings are constantly changing, though, so you could call/email them. Or just go with one of the many other really good options already recommended. Man is it a good time to be a bass player!
 
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#25
If you don't have to have it brand new, I'd say look for a cool partscaster! I have seen a handful of fretless fender partscasters for $350-$400 with Warmoth and All Parts necks.
I would take one of those hands-down over a new factory bass.
The cheaper Warwick fretless basses sound and play well too.
Good luck!
 
#26
There's a Rogue fretless your can get new for $180 or so. They're available all over. I don't know about them, but I have a 2000 Rogue unlined fretless that's really great. I [paid $125 for it. It has an ebonol fingerboard and maple neck. Very nice neck, much better than the inexpensive Yamaha and Squier fretless basses I previously owned. The body is some sort of pressed wood/plywood/compacted newsprint (when I drilled out the holes for the pots it made this weird gray dust) but mine sounds really good. I'd look around in CL, FB, offerup, music-go-round etc. and find something you like.
 
#28
Quin Harris said:
What is that bass, what is the model? Sorry for late response
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It's a Samick SAKB 5, a rare type. It's active, volume, blend tone & tone.
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Well built, no less than the BBN5II. But harder to find.
 

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