Lakland Skyline 55-02 review

[Eilif]

As long as the question has been asked, I'll just clarify that the 55-01 has the Bartolini MK1 pickups (two soapbars) and preamp. These are not USA Bartolinis, but are an imported system that has appeared on alot of midrange Ibanez, Cort, and other brands in the last decade or so in addition to the 55-01. It's a good system, but not nearly as nice as the Lakland Hanson LH series that is presently in the 55-02 or the USA Bartolini system that formerly was.

 

[craigmack1979]

I bought a new 55-02 last December. Initially, I was awe-struck with the look, feel and quality of this instrument - amazing! In fact, after one week, I thought I had found my "grail" bass! Except for one little detail....the sound. Meek, mild, sorta....well, almost wimpy.

Try as I might, I couldn't get there...by itself, it wasn't bad. With my band, however, this baby would get covered up faster than I could believe. I wound up, on several occasions, sticking my ear about 4' away from my 200W amp just to hear myself.

Tried everything - changed the settings on the toggle switch in the electronics compartment, changed strings, messed with the EQ settings on the amp - some of these actions helped but still didn't get me where I wanted to be.

Finally, I traded it, to a fellow TB'er, for a G&L L2500. All I can say is, ZOWIE! NOTHING covers this baby up - truly an amazing sound. Best I've ever heard from a bass (although my Yammie BB415 comes REAL close)!

I realize this post might seem like a diss of the 55-02, but really it isn't meant to be. Just another example of "different strokes for different folks". The TB'er that got my 55-02 really seems to like it, and I'm undoubtedly in the minority here with respect to how the 55-02 sound is perceived. But would I turn back the clock and "undo" the trade if I were able? Not a chance.

Seem like ??? 200 watt amp ?? Lmao

 

[craigmack1979]

I bought a new 55-02 last December. Initially, I was awe-struck with the look, feel and quality of this instrument - amazing! In fact, after one week, I thought I had found my "grail" bass! Except for one little detail....the sound. Meek, mild, sorta....well, almost wimpy.

Try as I might, I couldn't get there...by itself, it wasn't bad. With my band, however, this baby would get covered up faster than I could believe. I wound up, on several occasions, sticking my ear about 4' away from my 200W amp just to hear myself.

Tried everything - changed the settings on the toggle switch in the electronics compartment, changed strings, messed with the EQ settings on the amp - some of these actions helped but still didn't get me where I wanted to be.

Finally, I traded it, to a fellow TB'er, for a G&L L2500. All I can say is, ZOWIE! NOTHING covers this baby up - truly an amazing sound. Best I've ever heard from a bass (although my Yammie BB415 comes REAL close)!

I realize this post might seem like a diss of the 55-02, but really it isn't meant to be. Just another example of "different strokes for different folks". The TB'er that got my 55-02 really seems to like it, and I'm undoubtedly in the minority here with respect to how the 55-02 sound is perceived. But would I turn back the clock and "undo" the trade if I were able? Not a chance. I felt same way till I tweaked the pre amp by removing cover . You stated you tried everything yet didn't mention adjusting lh3 pre amp inside the bass lmao

 

[squeally dan]

I think I'm going to sell my MIA deluxe P for a 55-02 sooner or later.

I'm looking for a P if you end up selling.