The redesigned ESP LTD RB (Rocco Prestia) basses

You mean horizontal Jazz pick up. A vertical one would be practically useless

 

I know this thread is old, but I'm curious about this bass as well, particularly the RB-1005 5-string model. Passive with Duncans already appeals to me since I favor passive instruments and Duncans are my favorite pickups. I'm curious as to how the low B is and how the neck feels.

 

I forgot about those

 

I haven't seen the new Rocco bass in person, but like all the ESP LTD signature basses, they're scarce. I wouldn't hold my breath for anyone on TB to respond to your question. That said, LTD has really upped their game a lot in recent years, I wouldn't hesitate to buy one sight unseen. I'd expect it to be an excellent bass, just like the earlier version. Like you, I'm a fan of the original platform, and got fabulous deals on a as-new four and a fiver. Great basses, uber light weight, too. Is the original version discontinued now?

If I had one nit to pick with them it is that the back of the necks are too slick, I like a little more "tack" there to plant my thumb.

 

These would be sweet if it weren't for those ghastly inlays.

 

Just came from the LTD site, evidently the new Rocco comes with SD Quarter Pounder PJ pickups. QP's have more heft, so I'd expect a big full sound. If QP's are your thing, LTD had a BB4 model with QP PJ pickups and a 3-band preamp that slays. Discontinued now, but used ones are out there. They came in natural and open-pore black like mine. Monster sounding bass, albeit the pre is a tad noisy.

 

The ghastly inlays don't affect the sound or playability.

 

Only thing I didn’t like about the bass is the side dot inlays. They are all the same shape and size. I was painfully unaware that in 20 years I have grown used to having 2 dots for the 12th fret.

I’m sure I could get used to it or apply a sticker. Just a small odd detail, else was absolutely killer.

 

That reminds me of the other niggle I have with the LTD Rocco bass....the side dots are good sized, but they're abalone. Abalone is hard to see in most lighting conditions, but when light hits abalone at a certain angle, the dots become completely invisible even under bright lights.

Same thing on the Conklin Groove Tools Rocco bass...abalone side dots. I bought little stick-on black dots for the Conklin Rocco, which solved the "disappearing side dots" issue. Makes me wonder if abalone was Rocco's idea or just some extra bling thrown in for no apparent reason.

By contrast, my USA Conklin has nice-sized MOP side dots that are clearly visible in all lighting conditions. They're bright white and aren't affected by changing light conditions.

 

I have an Italia Modulo with the body coated in black MOTS. It's part of my little "Kitch" collection.

 

They look great, IMO.

 

I agree.

 

Bump the zombie thread - anyone have any feedback on the newer version (rosewood, passive Duncans) versus the older ones (maple, active Aguilar)? Rocco bass enthusiasts need to know.

 

Looks like the newest versions have Ebony fretboards and Duncan 1/4 # p/j set.

Street price looks to be $1299 on the 4 and $1399 on the 5 stringer. I haven’t seen a current 6 string offered.