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Godin A4ultra Fretless

B

bardban

Sep 28, 2009
10
0
37
Thessaloniki
#1
Does any of you own or had an experience with this instrument?Quite of an interesting option actually...Unfortunately all of these sound samples around the net aren't the best way to find out more about the instrument. I found it on thomann and I was so excited that I'm even thinking of selling my warwick corvette fretless for one of these. Seems like an instrument full of character. The whole semi-acoustic concept is completely unknown to me but it seems like a good option for a more smooth/jazzy sound.

I would be glad to hear from you any experiences...

Thanks in advance
 
#4
The Godin is only one of the great semi-acoustic, piezo based instruments out there.

The high-end of the bunch are Rob Allen and Turner Renaissance. Joe Veillette and TB's own Martin Keith make brilliant custom versions. John Shuker in the UK does a very fine bass called the Artist. Florida-based Tom Clement has made a bunch for me and others. The Carvin AC40 does a good job here.

Not easy to find/demo...but quite addictive.

In general these basses are very dynamic and expressive. They can give you an "electric upright bass" sound as well as more traditional electric bass sounds. They're often strung with black tape wound strings for a smooth, "woody" sound.

If you can get a good deal on the Godin it will definitely add to your sonic menu.

Here's a few from my posse (still looking for a Godin):

From the left: Tom Clement Mag/piezo, Rob Allen MB2-5, Deep 5, Mouse, MB2, Veillettes on floor.


DSC_0032.jpg
 
#5
richnota

Thanks for your post! I found godin on thomann cyberstore for 1926USD...i am really obsessed with this instrument since then. The only thing I have to do is to sell my warwick corvette for one of these (not the easiest thing though...). I look up for those you told me about too.

btw those are excellent instruments you own! MB2 and Deep 5 seem impressive...
 
#6
I had the first thinline semi fretless Godin made (the 'Acoustibass') which was very similar to the A4. Sounded amazing but the neck dive drove me crazy. If you're planning to use it live while standing up at all, definitely try before you buy. It's very difficult to maintain good intonation on a fretless when you're holding up the neck with the first knuckle of your index finger. :(

Great as a studio bass though, or if you play seated.
 
#7
The Godin is great but UK/EU price seems a bit high. But i cant say i've priced the Ultra; might be the midi output that's adding cost.

I believe Godin is Canadian, buying from UK might a better deal given import tariffs.

The Artist Bass from the Shuker website (mag/piezo but no midi):

artprokoafull.gif


artprokoabod.gif


Good luck!
 
#8
I have a Godin A5 fretted that I really like. You can get some good, woody tones out of it, but it'll still punch when the going gets loud. I currently have those stupid, overpriced coated strings on it. Nano-somethingorrather. Wrong choice. Imma change them as soon as I get a moment.

I'm still trying to decide whether to sell mine because the string spacing is narrower than I'm used to, now that I have a Lākland 5ver and a Fender P5, both of which are much wider-spaced.
 
#10
MNAirHead said:
I've owned an A4 and currently have an A6... I would never buy one again due to the company -- PM me if you want additional details - I don't want to trash up your thread.
Click to expand...

I own an A4 Ultra Fretless and I love it! Got it directly for Godin, here in Quebec. I'm surprised MNAirHead had problems! I order the bass on a Monday afternoon and had it in my office the wednesday before lunch!

For the questions about it; it's not a feather-weight bass, it's kind of heavy. The sound you can get is great, especially with the 13 pin output. The sound samples online are not good compared to what you can here if you try it!

I love playing fretless, the Godin A4 ultra plays like butter!
 

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