• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Help Me Choose A Divorce Bass

Out of the three suggested choices, I would say the SR1900. But a similar bass that I would suggest that I like even better is the Ibanez SR1400TE. It is kind of like a hybrid of the Ibby & the Carvin. It is neck-thru like the Carvin and has a mahogany back like the SR1900, but with a maple top instead. Of course it also has the Nordstrand Big Singles, which are phenomenal IMO. I upgraded the onboard preamp in mine to the Aguilar OBP-3 and have never looked back! Adding that would make it like a hybrid of all 3 of your suggested bass options. Good luck on your decision and may the best bass (for you) win…

IMG_1352.JPG
IMG_1354.JPG
 
I own both Ibanez (1997 SR1000SOL with SR-4 prestige neck instead of the factory standard one) and Spector (NS-5H2 American made bolt on) basses and I would definitely choose any Spector over an Ibanez.

I fell in love with the finish of the ibanez (natural mahogany) and its slim neck back when I started playing bass. I played heavy and progressive metal back then, but those slim necks turned out not to be my thing, when I eventually 'matured' musically. I love my Ibanez for all the sentimental reasons, my second purchase and a serious upgrade from a bad second hand Squier. The Ibanez was my only bass for along while i have played more gigs with it than my Spector, but I always had issues with the active circuit and those pick ups, although were helpful given mine were P/J combination, were always lacking. Ibanez was never a good slap bass, but great for those shreds and runs and at one point i played a lot of them and the slim neck helped (Symphony X cover band/ Dream Theater cover band). I cannot say it is a versatile bass unlike my Spector which has amazing playability great craftsmanship, the proper neck thickness and a great active circuit and pick ups (Aguilar).

Currently I want to buy a 4 string bass and I am seriously considering a Fender American Vintage Precision bass.

The finish on the Ibanez is highly sensitive and from the very first couple of months I noticed a discoloration in the wood where I place my thumb. Not to mention the frets which got worn out very easily and are now uneven.

Again go play both if have the chance to and find out which you are more comfortable playing and which sounds better and does what you want it to do.
 
That's true. I always thought that stuff was more of a private matter, but thats just me. I apologize :)
Seems to happen to a lot of people, though...

No input on the bass but the build on the Carvin's I have tried is really good. Since I only play 5's and want a 1 7/8" width on the neck, they are just to narrow for me - the 4's feel like a J-bass neck to me, though.

Good luck with both happenings...divorce and new bass.

Dan
 
I have an Ibanez SR1800, which is extremely similar to the one you posted. It's like playing a sports car, in my opinion. Fast neck, tight aggressive sound, killer looks. It's the only bass that my bass-dumb bandmates have complimented.
 
  • Like
Reactions: bassbooty
"Marriage is about how long you can hack it, but divorce is forever!" - Louis C.K.

Enjoy your new freedom, my friend. My divorce bass was a custom build from G&L: Just like the divorce papers, it took a while but it was worth the wait (and every penny).

All 3 basses you posted are gorgeous, personally I would pick the Ibby (based on looks + Nordstrand pups).
 
So I'm going through a divorce and signed the papers today. It's all good for the most part other than having to move from a four bedroom house to a one bedroom apartment! Good news is that I am not only getting out debt free but getting a settlement from the soon to be ex since she is keeping the house. So since I will have some extra cash in savings and no one to tell me what I can and can't buy I'm going to get a new bass! I'm wanting to stay around or below $1500 and I'm leaning toward something more modern with an active EQ. Here is what I'm looking at so far:

Ibanez SR 1900ENTL Premium. Love the look of this bass and the Nordstrand Big Singles!
Ibanez SR1900ENTL SR Premium - Natural Low Gloss
View attachment 864134

Spector Legend Neck Thru: It has Aguilar pickups and preamp and I have always been a fan of the Spector body shape.
Invalid Link Removed
View attachment 864135

Carvin/Kiesel Icon: I have wanted one of these for years and like that I can customize it.
[Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
View attachment 864139

Would love to get opinions from those who own or have owned any of these. I'm also open to suggestions for other basses and they don't have to be new.

I never tried those ... but I have a Fender Am Dimension Deluxe V HH Bass , and I totally love it. I know it's just an opinion ;) That said ... some love the Dimension while others hate it!
I've played a Musicman Stingray and an Ibanez SR400, and I prefer my bass all the way.
Maybe should try one of these . Used you can find the about 1300$ and I bought mine from music123 and it was an open box and it was mint condition.

But the bass you mention are good basses, so ....