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Modulus VJ question

P

Puscifer

Dec 12, 2009
7
0
#1
Anybody use a Modulus VJ as their main bass? And I know this next part is opinion, but what is the best or preferred options to have on a VJ?

Also, anybody run their Modulus VJ through a SansAmp VT bass pedal?

I've owned several basses in the past (couple of Zon's, Music Man's, Yamaha, Spector and currrently an Ibanez ATK5), but I've never got to play a Modulus VJ.

Let me know what the skinny is on these (and it would be going through a SansAmp VT Bass pedal into a Ampeg BA115). My live gigging days are over, so this would just be for the man-cave.

Thanks!
 
#4
I have a 2009 VJ and love it. They are extraordinary quality instrument. Modulus sends about 85% of them out with Bartolini N4J pickups (disco'd to the public, but made for them) and a Bart NTBT (bass & treble) preamp. If I could order all over again, I would have optioned the Villex pickups and chechen wood fingerboard. Something to consider with a VJ: there is an inherent mid cut from about (guessing here) between 750-850hz and about 4-5k. It isn't drastic, but noticeable. I believe this has to do with the composite neck. This could be good or bad, depending on your desired tone. I swapped the p/u's for Nordstrand NJ4SE's. The Barts were fine, but I just can't stop meddling.......In retrospect, the more 'vintage' type p/u replacements like NJ4/4SV's, Villex, Fralins, some of the Duncan offerings would get some of that sonic spectrum evened out for a more 'traditional' bass sound. The NJ4SE's rock the booty, though! As for the Sans Amp as it relates specifically to the VJ, I don't know, but Sans Amp stuff is good quality and tweakable. You stated you don't gig anymore. If you get the VJ, my guess is that will change.....it's a great, quality instrument that is hard to put down.
 
#5
Gforce9;

That is great input - I appreciate it. I must admit, even though I've been playing for a long time, I hardly know anything about different pick up brands and then the differences between different models within the same brand.

I was keeping an eye out for a used one on E-Bay or Craigslist. Im 38, married & have a 3 yr old and a 1 yr old. So buying brand new is out of the question. Out of all the different options the one that seems the most interesting is hearing the difference between the regular modulus neck / fingerboard and then the version that has the "chechen"(sp?) fingerboard.

Anyways, what do you think of this configuration?
Invalid Link Removed

(it's the bottom black one listed at "demo pricing")

cheers.
 
#6
You can sometimes find them on ebay for decent prices. They're not as many VJ's as Quantums or Flea's, though. Kids at that age are great; enjoy the time, it goes by way too fast. I've tried both fingerboards and here is choices (personal preference only): Chechen on a VJ and composite on a Quantum5, though either on either is still great. That link shows a beautiful bass. I like the black with tort pickguard.....very nice. If the price is right, grab it! As a side note, one of the benefits of the Modulus neck is: you adjust it once (unless you radically change the action and/or strings) and it stays, both tuning and relief. That is really nice and will make you spoiled.
 
#7
I know right? (about the kids). That "demo" bass I posted the link for is $1650.00 That seems pretty good. But right now with Christmas coming, it might as well be $16,500.00

I can't wait to get one though...they look beautiful.
 
#8
I have one and love it. It's my main 4 string. Mine has a sienna finish, with a quilted maple top. I had it modded with a U-Retro Deluxe preamp and a Hipshot Xtender. I bought that bass at a store where I worked, Mars Music. If I had ordered one custom I would have gone with the chechen fingerboard and satin neck. The Villex pickups would have been a consideration, perhaps paired with an Aguilar OBP-1, although I love the East preamp. I love the bass as it is though, and won't ever sell it or change it.
 

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