Of the two basses listed, which is a better all around bass? I know this is subjective, but I'd appreciate some input. I'm looking for one GOOD bass that I can use for most styles. I like everything from Duck Dunn to The Cure. I know no single bass can do everything but I'd like to get as close as I can. Thanks
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G&L JB-2 vs L2500
- Thread starter ronin614
- Start date
my vote goes for the L2500.
and if you do the simple mod converting the parallel/series switch to a parallel/singlecoil/series switch... even more.
and if you do the simple mod converting the parallel/series switch to a parallel/singlecoil/series switch... even more.
Well, they don't even have the same number of strings 
I played both and liked the L2500 more.
It is more versatile than the JB-2, so I think you should try to play one of them. The JB-2 is a Jazz Bass, you can have an idea of how it sounds if you played another Jazz before...
I played both and liked the L2500 more.
It is more versatile than the JB-2, so I think you should try to play one of them. The JB-2 is a Jazz Bass, you can have an idea of how it sounds if you played another Jazz before...
Well, they don't even have the same number of strings
I played both and liked the L2500 more.
It is more versatile than the JB-2, so I think you should try to play one of them. The JB-2 is a Jazz Bass, you can have an idea of how it sounds if you played another Jazz before...
Ditto what Dan said... Also, if you are one of those that prefer wider string spacing on a 5, the L2500 doesn't have that.
I checked out a used L2500 recently, and it was a seriously great bass. Also the L2000 is very cool as well... I just can't hang with the narrower spacing on a 5.
This is a simple mod? I would love to learn how to do this, as I have little to no use for the series mode. Can you point me to a thread or information on how to do this mod?
Unfortunately only the JB-2 only comes with the thinner neck profile, right?? 
or is that just the tribute
or is that just the tribute
Unfortunately only the JB-2 only comes with the thinner neck profile, right??
My USA JB-2 has a wonderfully thin neck.
Representin' for the JB-2! Seriously, it depends on whether you want an all-passive instrument, or not, as it has pretty much been settled that the best all-passive setup is the classic J, for the majority of folks. YMMV, etc.
Speaking of classic J, here's one I just got:
Starting to drink the G&L Tea....... Sorry for the side bar...
www.bassesbyleo.com has the schematics for doing the mod.
I've considered breaking out the soldering iron and tackling this mod on my L-2500. It's not that difficult. I would like to hear what it sounds like first.
Look up Ken Baker here on on Bassesbyleo.com and he can give you the skinny on it.
The 2500 covers the sonic spectrum as a 5 string, the JB-2 is limited as a passive bass. I think the JB-2 far more attractive. It would be awesome if G&L had a JB-2 5 string with the option of the MFD Humbuckers.
As pointed out, it's an odd comparison: 5-string active w/versatile electronics vs. 4-string, passive J... I've owned and loved both, but for different gigs. It's true, you can do most things a J will do w/a 2500, but if you're a 4-string player, the JB-2 neck is fabulously fast and comfortable, and I personally prefer its P-style body vs the J-shape for comfort. I don't think you'll go too far wrong going either way unless you truly need those low notes.
My thoughts weren't really concerned w the 5 vs 4 string issue. It's just that I have the opportunity to pick up either a JB-2 or L2500 rather cheaply. I know the Jb isn't as versatile as the L2000 but will it cover most kinds of music?
As for passive vs active, I've never owned a strictly passive bass. Mine have always been both so I guess I'm looking for some input on how powerful the passive system on the JB is.
As for passive vs active, I've never owned a strictly passive bass. Mine have always been both so I guess I'm looking for some input on how powerful the passive system on the JB is.
There is a reason amps have tone controls, use them and you may find that passive basses are a great way to go. Only 1 of my 10 or so basses have a preamp in it and that os only because of the Rick Turner piezo pickup in it. In the past 40 years of playing and owning dozens of instruments in that time only 6 of them were active, two were are Rick Turners, two were Alembics amd two were Zons, but I did replace the active electronics in the first Zon with a passive system.
The JB-2 cam be as powerful as needed, it's just where you make the adjustments that are different.
IMO I'd go with the JB-2, a true workhorse Jazz bass.
I put some fralin splits in mine & it sounds freakin awesome.
But if you need a fiver go with the 2500
I put some fralin splits in mine & it sounds freakin awesome.
But if you need a fiver go with the 2500
