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Ok. Which model of Standard did you get and what are your impressions? I haven't seen too many reviews posted yet.
The new VB4 and VB5 basses all have the logo on the neck. I don't think it has anything to do with the number of frets. Are you sure there are 26 frets on the VB5? I could only count 24. I also am curious about the placement of the recess under the bridge. On the older VBXs (X={4,5}) the recess would either be level with the edge of the bridge or extend under the bridge. Either the body is a bit longer than a 'standard' VBX or the neck placement has been changed. These extensions should not be necessary.
Bryan R. Tyler
TalkBass: Usurping My Practice Time Since 2002
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- May 3, 2002
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- Reviewer: Bass Player Magazine
I think he meant my specific VB4, which has 26 frets. Funny thing is the fretboard extends further down past the last fret (similar to the TJ models) so there is enough room to put the "Zon" name there. I do like how it looks on the body though, so I'm happy.
I actually didn't ask. I was concerned about cutting string length to account for the way Zon headless basses are strung, learning about the bridge position when installing strings, and using the tools Joe includes, and all the while thinking "how am i supposed to learn stringing a headless bass when I'm looking at this headless TJ6??!!"
But strictly from the perceived visual elements of the strings, and the fact that Joe *knew* I was obsessed on stringing heavier gauge B strings, I believe the strings on the headless TJ6 at that precise time started at low B (BEADGC). I also believe that my string gauge at time of my picking up two VB5s was slightly heavier, on my fretless, strung with Circle K starting at .146 on the B with a conventional VB5.
Just wanted to chime in and say I definitely got another keeper in my stable. It's just dead solid perfect on every level. Fires on all cylinders, all the time.
I know we've talked a lot about build times and such, but I think that's greatly exacerbated by custom options... a small shop like that which is often easily overloaded will take big hits on special options. I just wanted to say, do NOT underestimate a more "standard" Sonus (like the one I got). It'll get built faster, and it sounds/plays every bit as good as one with a lot of custom stuff on it.
Anyway, FWIW.
I know we've talked a lot about build times and such, but I think that's greatly exacerbated by custom options... a small shop like that which is often easily overloaded will take big hits on special options. I just wanted to say, do NOT underestimate a more "standard" Sonus (like the one I got). It'll get built faster, and it sounds/plays every bit as good as one with a lot of custom stuff on it.
Anyway, FWIW.
I just saw this add today. I wish I had the money, but I don't so I figured I'd post it here. I'm not associated with the sale whatsoever. It looks like a killer deal for anyone looking for a Legacy 6-string though (assuming it's in good shape).
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Hey guys!
So this week, I became the custodian of a really remarkable Zon Sonus Custom 5. No inlays, fretted, flamed / spalted maple top, gloss finish, black hardware.
I was actually in the market for a 6, but this instrument sounded and played better than every other bass I tried, and that included some very impressive Laklands, Warwicks, G&Ls, high-end Ibanez, Fender, and many others. The definition and response is just incredible, and the electronics make it a snap to dial in just the kind of fat yet clear tone I crave
One of the most remarkable things about this instrument is that there are zero wolf tones or dead spots anywhere on the 24-fret neck. This is rare as hen's teeth, in my experience.
The only thing I don't like about this bass is that it is fairly neck-heavy as a consequence of the light body (and I like the lightness). Hopefully, one of my wide straps will control this. I'll give a full report and photo after I have a chance to play it at my studio (have only played it at the store so far).
Big big up to local AZ shop The Bass Place for giving me such a killer deal on a wonderful lifetime instrument!
So this week, I became the custodian of a really remarkable Zon Sonus Custom 5. No inlays, fretted, flamed / spalted maple top, gloss finish, black hardware.
I was actually in the market for a 6, but this instrument sounded and played better than every other bass I tried, and that included some very impressive Laklands, Warwicks, G&Ls, high-end Ibanez, Fender, and many others. The definition and response is just incredible, and the electronics make it a snap to dial in just the kind of fat yet clear tone I crave
One of the most remarkable things about this instrument is that there are zero wolf tones or dead spots anywhere on the 24-fret neck. This is rare as hen's teeth, in my experience.
The only thing I don't like about this bass is that it is fairly neck-heavy as a consequence of the light body (and I like the lightness). Hopefully, one of my wide straps will control this. I'll give a full report and photo after I have a chance to play it at my studio (have only played it at the store so far).
Big big up to local AZ shop The Bass Place for giving me such a killer deal on a wonderful lifetime instrument!
Only on wood necked basses. This is the status quo on composite necked basses.
Either wider, or maybe just one with a more suede back so it's not as slippery.
^ that's the one all right!
As arresting as the cosmetics are, they're nothing compared to how this animal plays and sounds. I actually would have preferred a plainer look and satin finish, but I think it looks pretty sweet anyway.
Some other random notes :
- Chords on this thing are ridiculously clear-sounding, almost like a classical guitar
- Workmanship is flawless as far as I can see. Perfect sanding, fitting, and finishing [thoughI suppose that the gloss finish could conceal some minor quirks].
- Black hardware looks cool
- Pickups are very quiet, but there is a tiny amount of audible buzz when the treble is cranked all the way. Would be unnoticeable in a performance situation.
- With the EQ flat, I'd describe this instrument's tone as 'vocal, but not honky, and slightly dark.'
- The neck profile is perfect for me. It's relatively thin, which is how I like it, especially on a 5+.
- Of special note is the "B" string. Based on everything I've played lately, I'd developed a strong preference for a 35"+ scale because the vast majority of basses with that scale had much better-sounding and better-playing B strings than basses with 34" scales. This Zon tested and broke that rule with a 34" B string that sounds strong and present, and is quite playable.
- Similarly, I was worried that the relatively narrow string spacing at the bridge would bother me. In fact, I liked the 17mm spacing quite a bit and will no doubt get used to it quickly.
- Unplugged, this thing rings like the proverbial bell.
- This is important : the fretwork is 100% perfect and most righteous. This counts for a lot with me; there are few things that annoy me more than dodgy fretwork (which I encountered often as I ran the racks of various places, even on $1200+ instruments)
I saw that ad a couple of weeks ago, wish I had that kinda cash as well.
I couldn't find anything about that specific model, but a similar "new" legacy 6 string runs ~ $7,000.
(According to the Zon website)I have to wonder if the owners price is way too low.
I wouldn't touch that bass. It's been passed around waaaaay too much. I have a feeling there may be an issue with it.
Hey fellow Zonites!!! I just put some new Ernie Ball Cobalt strings on my Sonus and I'm really liking the sound!!! I got a few gigs this week so hopefully I can try them in a live setting... Has anyone tried them on their Zons?
^ Word! I haven't tried them, but I might give them a shot for my next set if I don't go with Thomastik flats.
Let us know how they work out!
p.s. what kind of Sonus have you?
Let us know how they work out!
p.s. what kind of Sonus have you?
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