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Possible NBD incoming: need opinions

What should I purchase?

  • Yamaha BBP35

    Votes: 65 54.2%
  • Fender USA Geddy Lee jazz bass

    Votes: 43 35.8%
  • Neither of these, so I'm going to give you my opinion

    Votes: 12 10.0%

  • Total voters
    120
I'll agree that the Yamaha is the obvious choice since you primarily play a 5 string. That is unless you're jonesing for a Jazz with a particularly chunky neck, which is what you'll find with the USA Geddy. It's got a great finish, and those white blocks and binding are quite lovely, but my Pro II fits my hand better, and the Supernatural Satin finish is every bit as nice as the oil/wax on the Geddy. Just my opinion.
 
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Of those two, Yamaha all day every day.

Cast your net wider, and pick up a first-gen Peavey Foundation. The Super Ferrites are fantastic.
 
I'd vote Yamaha, but only if you're okay with the very narrow nut width. I had it high on my list a year-ish ago when I was looking for a new 5er. You can't find a bad review of them anywhere. I played a lower tier BB in a store, and liked everything about it except for the nut width, it just felt too narrow to me, and all of my 4 strings have J-bass nut widths. I suppose I could have gotten used to it, but it felt really tight.

I ended up with a Reverend Mercalli 5, something totally different but highly versatile.
 
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Sounds like you are leaning Yamaha. You could always try a Tom Brantly J pickup in it.
Bass Shop Seattle has them frequently so 4 hour drive and you could try the one you would buy before laying down your payment.

Never been to their shop but next time I drive up from PDX I’m checking them out. Selection around here isn’t the best.
 
Found a Geddy to try, only a few hours unless you get stuck in traffic in which case, you'll probably give up. I've never actually been to this location but i think same guy that ran the Pioneer Square bass store which was a fantastic place, and around the corner from Emerald City Guitars which is still there but doesn't have a lot

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The USA Geddy Lee Jazz bass is one of the best Jazz basses that Fender has ever made. It is IMHO a special instrument. Personally I don't think that the P/J pickup setup works that well so I'd go with the Geddy Jazz bass.
 
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One of my buddy has a 4-string Yamaha PJ. It's a very well-built bass, but I personally wouldn't shell out for a 4-string one. If you need a 5-string then it's a solid option, but doesn't Fender make a 5-string Jazz bass, too?
 
Okay, need some assistance with a possible new bass day. I'm torn between these two, even though they are very different.

Yamaha BBP35
Fender USA Geddy Lee jazz bass

My thoughts: I could definitely use a 5-string PJ style bass, and the Yamaha is at the top of my list. My friends play a lot of Yamaha guitars, and all rave about them. I've played this particular model a few times at stores and at gigs, so there's that. I'm also primarily a 5-string player, so this would be nice to have a PJ passive style bass.

On the Fender side, I love 4-string jazz basses, and have read nothing but great reviews about this USA Geddy Lee. I currently have a 75th anniversary J bass, and love it. I figure with this one, it will a) have a different sound than my current, b) look great because of the maple board with inlays (and black paint job), and c) be great to have another J-style anyway.

So, what say you? I play a bit of everything, and am in multiple tribute bands (mostly 90s alternative rock).
You already have another J and other basses? I know I'm still in the honeymoon period but I have P's Js and just recently completed the Leo Trifecta with the Stingray special I have been very impressed how versatile it is while still maintaining its original character, especially with the Genre you are playing.
 
I voted for the USA Geddy. Contrary to a previous poster, I think you would definitely experience a different tone with the Geddy than with your 75th. If you like a bright Jazz that's super well-built, the Geddy is your bass. I've found that the 75th is warmer sounding. Each is excellent in its way.
 
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I voted for the BBP35. I have it's little brother the BB435 and it's fantastic. Plus, you already have a jazz bass, even if it's not the Geddy. If you like the flats tone, I recommend the DR Legends (.125 medium gauge), they sound amazing and buttery smooth on the Yamaha electronics.