Up for trade is MTD USA Saratoga 5 #2364. This is Mike's version of the jazz bass, but undoubtedly an MTD. Nice low action, and a very playable neck. Here is a review of a very similar specced Saratoga to sum things up: MTD Saratoga 5-String (Review) The details: -Alder Body -Maple Neck -Rosewood Board -Bartolini USA Saratoga electronics - volume, blend, bass, treble, push/pull mids (400/800Hz), passive tone control, active passive switch, and Bartolini single coil jazz pickups -8 lbs 10 oz -19mm String Spacing - 34" Scale - Includes MTD gig bag There are a few small dings, and the small specks on the lower bout appear to be on the surface- you cannot feel them with your hand nor are they through the finish. I took a lot of pictures for full transparency- overall the bass is in very good condition. Priced to sell at $2700 shipped (and reduced! ), and can meet for a local sale. Please ask questions via private message. Thanks for looking! {}
I had an opportunity to play this bass - and I can testify that it is a killer! Plays and sounds amazing, and beautiful condition.
Are these basses comparable to the 535's? Wondering about the difference in sound between soap bars and jazz pickups. The stain/paint job is so distinctive . Guess I will have to check these out on Youtube! GLWYS! Just checked out this incredible bass, it is called a "USA Custom" and sounds incredible, leave it to Mr Tobias to cover every taste in tone. It is also priced very competitively, as the new basses are priced at 3,600. Be still my heart!
In my opinion this bass (and MTD Saratoga's) are more of a sum of the whole rather than a soapbar/jazz pickup comparison. The Saratoga's are Mike Tobias's interpretation of the jazz bass. The sonic spectrum is a bit narrower than the 535s (more Fenderish), but the Saras still look, feel and sound like MTDs. Very unique amongst all the jazz basses out there, and like all MTD's each has its own unique qualities. Really amazing instruments. And a price reduction to $2700 on this one to boot!
