Martin BC 16 e vs Fender Kingman V2

[Bassman 60]

First time post.
So I recently purchased a Martin acoustic bass (16 BC e). While it feels and looks nice, is fairly loud for an acoustic, I have been to the luthier four times . Twice for replacing/repairing the piezo and fret work. Also on the E and A strings they get a little flat after the 10th fret( no resonance).
I have not been able to exchange for another as they are Backordered forever (would have been my first choice). Two repairs later the bass is working again (for now).
My question concerns the Fender Kingman V2 and it’s comparison to the Martin. Has anyone had experience with both. I use acoustic basses for practice and gigs maybe a quarter of the time minimum. At $600 the Fender would save me a ton of money but quality and sound-wise would it be worth the exchange. Unfortunately no one has the Fenders around here to try out for comparison.

 

[jd56hawk]

Sorry, but the Fender wouldn't even be in my top five.
What is it you like about them?

Other than that, can't you simply return the Martin?

 

[abarson]

Sorry, but the Fender wouldn't even be in my top five.
What is it you like about them?

Other than that, can't you simply return the Martin?

The inevitable post to anything ABG related...

 

[jd56hawk]

The inevitable post to anything ABG related...

Sure, pretty much all that's needed for anyone seeking something good, something versatile.
I sure can't recommend something inferior with a clean conscience.

 

[Bassman 60]

Sorry, but the Fender wouldn't even be in my top five.
What is it you like about them?

Other than that, can't you simply return the Martin?

 

[Bassman 60]

Yes I could return it to GC but would not get replacement due to backorders out several months. Would have done that way back in December, otherwise. That was why I was stuck making several trips to luthier.

 

[jd56hawk]

Sounds pretty good!
Don't get me wrong, the Kingman isn't a bad acoustic bass, but...

 

[jd56hawk]

Yes I could return it to GC but would not get replacement due to backorders out several months. Would have done that way back in December, otherwise. That was why I was stuck making several trips to luthier.

This guy seems to like the Kingman.

 

[Bassman 60]

Haven’t been able to try them. Looking at decent option.Also won’t buy anything made in Communist China.

 

[jd56hawk]

You just might have to gamble and buy without trying.
I have 11 basses, bought them all online.
Bit of a gamble but it's all about betting smart.
I've played the Fender.
It's very comfortable.
Should benefit from putting on the proper strings.

 

[Bassman 60]

This guy seems to like the Kingman.

Yah saw video but don’t play heavy metal. Would use for acoustic type songs. Have two American G&Ls and two American Fenders Jazz and p basses for other songs on set list.

 

[jd56hawk]

Believe it or not, I actually made another video.
(Headphones or earbuds are recommended.)

I have two USA-made G&Ls, too.

 

[Old gold]

I’m not a good bassist, having just started two years ago, and have not played with anyone else. I also have not played the Martin. I purchased my Kingman about 18 months ago and replaced the strings with GHS flat wounds. I like the sound (more acoustically than plugged in, though). I find the Kingman to be very comfortable to use and well built. It stays in tune and has reasonable intonation. I use the bass to practice almost everyday and take it with me when I travel.

 

[Ostie]

I have not played either of those basses, but the build quality of the Fender isn’t in the same league as the Martin. Fender is not known for their acoustic guitars or mandolins.

 

[chadds]

Haven’t been able to try them. Looking at decent option.Also won’t buy anything made in Communist China.

Where is your phone, TV, computer, coffee pot, refrigerator, dishwasher, etc. from? Let me know cause I will shop with you.

 

[chadds]

The inevitable post to anything ABG related...

That wasn’t our regularly scheduled anti ABG post. It was about Fender ABGs specifically.

 

[chadds]

That wasn’t our regularly scheduled anti ABG post. It was about Fender ABGs specifically.

Actually those “ABG are useless posts” have all but ceased. Live and let live.

 

[Bassman 60]

Where is your phone, TV, computer, coffee pot, refrigerator, dishwasher, etc. from? Let me know cause I will shop with you.

Dishwasher and refrigerator are made in America. All five basses made in America. GK amps made in America. Whenever possible pay extra to avoid anything made in Communist China or Vietnam!. If all these companies that are “woke” ……..

 

[chadds]

Dishwasher and refrigerator are made in America. All five basses made in America. GK amps made in America. Whenever possible pay extra to avoid anything made in Communist China or Vietnam!. If all these companies that are “woke” ……..

No argument here. Are you sure they aren't labeled once they get here? The chips in your appliances aren't made in America.

 

[bmoriarty]

This guy seems to like the Kingman.

Well now we know it can sound like ass