Very interesting comparison here. MTD sounds crisper and more aticulate to my ears. The MTD's B-string is also noticeably clearer than the Fodera's.
Both amazing instruments!
Both amazing instruments!
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Articulation is pretty much at the heart of MTD’s identity. That Fodera strikes me as a super plush undercover active Jazz Bass. I would happily take either one.
I'm a vintage guy to my boots, but that's vintage with some reservations.
I like the definition and clarity we get with modern basses but I also like that tempered with a 60's fat mid and low end. I know there were no preamps involved in this shootout, which would have changed everything, but if I had the MTD I'd be emphasising the lower frequencies. The Fodera sounds great to me. I could easily own both.
I like the definition and clarity we get with modern basses but I also like that tempered with a 60's fat mid and low end. I know there were no preamps involved in this shootout, which would have changed everything, but if I had the MTD I'd be emphasising the lower frequencies. The Fodera sounds great to me. I could easily own both.
I slightly prefer the MTD’s sounds, but the Fodera is no slouch. If my wallet would allow it, I’d be happy with either bass.
One great thing about MTD is that you can a lot of the MTD sound on reasonably priced imports. I know my Kingston Super 5 has a B string as clear as Lobster’s. It has the same neck profile too. Of course, it does not have the custom USA Bartolini electronics, Hipshot hardware, or choice woods, but it is $7,000 cheaper than Lobster’s bass too!
Sorry, to me these are two entirely different animals designed to achieve different things.
Both amazing in thier own right, but they are intended to attain two entirely different sounds, so not two I would venture to compare.
Actually, for comparison sake, I thought the Fodera v the Sire M series was an interesting video as I've always wondered how the two would stack up given some similarities in the electronics packages. Essentially can you get the functionality of one for many thousands less.
I just think this is like comparing a Ferrari to Maybach, both super high end, both made to exceptional standards, but aimed at two different ends.
Both amazing in thier own right, but they are intended to attain two entirely different sounds, so not two I would venture to compare.
Actually, for comparison sake, I thought the Fodera v the Sire M series was an interesting video as I've always wondered how the two would stack up given some similarities in the electronics packages. Essentially can you get the functionality of one for many thousands less.
I just think this is like comparing a Ferrari to Maybach, both super high end, both made to exceptional standards, but aimed at two different ends.
I agree, the Fodera versus Sire M7 was much more apples to apples.
I preferred the Fodera, but tester videos where they constantly smack/slap the pickups and strings while playing are like nails on a chalkboard in my ears.
I preferred the Fodera. My ears would find all that "edge" coming from the MTD tiring.
Nice video Lobster I’m curious how they would work in the mix
That “edge” may works better in this case.
That “edge” may works better in this case.
If you lean more towards the traditional Fender tones, you would probably prefer the Fodera.
If a more modern tone is to your liking with clarity and thunderous lows, you would lean towards the MTD.
The B string alone would push me towards the MTD.
If a more modern tone is to your liking with clarity and thunderous lows, you would lean towards the MTD.
The B string alone would push me towards the MTD.
Great video…I love MTDs…the second 535 I owned was a fantastic bass, but I moved away from active basses years ago because I could deal with the “edge” or overwhelming “ping” to a lot of active basses when they’re slapped…that’s pretty much where MTD loses me every time at this point…but the playability is insane and they are overall wonderful…
id probably go Fodera at this point…if I got another boutique 5 string, I’d want a ton of options…the coil tapping and the passive tone control options push it over the top for me..
id probably go Fodera at this point…if I got another boutique 5 string, I’d want a ton of options…the coil tapping and the passive tone control options push it over the top for me..
For me, MTD comes out on top in terms of physical comfort and playability while Fodera wins out on the tone and flexibility side. As has been said several times previous, both are exceptional.
Said the Fodera player...
Said the Fodera player...
My Squier can beat them with a few mods. Heh. But seriously, I like both but given the comparison between those two particular basses on this day, I slightly prefer the Fodera. Tomorrow I might prefer the MTD.
I absolutely love MTD’s neck, and the B string is fire. That said, MTD B strings can actually sound too loud relative to the other strings. A B string like Fodera’s will just fine when you don’t want shock and awe.
Both very nice.
To folks that have played MTD, Smith, Spector....would you tend to categorize them similarly as punchy, articulate, and modern with ample mid range? If so, is it simply a byproduct of the dual HB's favored towards the bridge giving that tone?
To folks that have played MTD, Smith, Spector....would you tend to categorize them similarly as punchy, articulate, and modern with ample mid range? If so, is it simply a byproduct of the dual HB's favored towards the bridge giving that tone?
I just think that edgy sound, which I found a little unpleasant when soloed, might be very fine in the mix. Besides, there’s always an equalizer 
