G&L JB2

It's been difficult to get many impressions on this bass as they are not as widely distributed as G&L's L-series basses. I've been dying to try one as well, but simply have never come across one yet. If you do a search on them here, you might find a little info, but probably not much.

IMO, G&L has a tough time with distribution. They don't have the brand equity of older more established firms like Fender and MM, so I think that hurts them too. They are just harder to find overall, and the JB-2's even more so. Only time will tell if that will ever change. With the current economic climate however, I don't expect to see them spending more on marketing or distribution anytime soon. I wouldn't be surprised if major retailers don't give them the time of day either. After all, they move a lot more MM's and Fenders off the floor since G&L is almost an unknown by comparison.

 

actually have tried one myself. pretty good tone, nice bite. haven't played it recently, should probably go back and check it out again. it was a little bright for me though(maple neck and fretboard, i don't like maple fretboards either so...) but it still sounded pretty good, i just kinda was comparing it with a warwick corvette FNA at the time, and i just liked the warwicks sound more. but i still thought it was a good bass, and i think it was actually going for under a grand retail, so i don't think the list price was that high. overall good bass, more comfortable and playable than many fender jazzes i've played, but the frets were a bit rough sliding for me, but that again was vs the warwick that cost another $500 more. i'd have to say try one yourself, but i don't think you'd be too disappointed with it if you just blindly bought one.

 

i think Bass Player Magazine reviewed the JB-2

they said that it was a much better jazz bass than that of Fenders.

but i remeber them complaining about the hum that the pickups give.
But I also remember that they gave it a good review, though. Definitely better than buying a Fender Jazz. But that's just my opinion.

 

Funny... I don't remember them saying that.

 

i could be wrong...i remember it was a G&L passive bass though.

 

Actually, your statement is pretty close to the truth.

I went back and dug up the article, in which they said, "...the JB2 definitely held it's own next to a stock '62 Jazz. In fact,...produced clearer high midrange and better sustain than the original."

I guess many would consider that "much better" so I can see how you reached your conclusion.

All in all, sounds like a ringing endorsement to me!

 

I saw an ad for the JB-2 in the November issue of BP and had a major GAS attack. I had to put the magazine down, wipe the drool from my chin, and wait for the feeling to go away before I could pick the magazine up again.

 

Trust me, happens to me all the time. I have to wear a bib...