Tribute L2500 vs. Skyline 55-01........PLEASE HELP!!!!!

At different times, I have owned both so I think I can give you some good advice. If you most value sonic versatility, the Tribute is by far a superior bass. If you most value wide string spacing and a comfortable neck, the 55-01 is a much better bass. Both basses have good B strings, but the 55-01 is superior to that of the Tribute L-2500. The 55-01 has a good set up electronically, but the variety of options with the Tribute system way outshine what the 55-01 can do. I have not played the 55-01 with the NTMB preamp, I understand they have better electronics, but they are also much more expensive too.

 

The 55-01 has a passive sound, but with no tone shaping and the volume is much weaker. The L-2500 does not really sound like a Stingray. With the neck pup soloed, it is amazingly close to a P-bass. The sound with both pickups engaged is distinctive, but it is somewhat akin to a Stingray, but nowhere near a Stingray duplicate. I think that the 55-01 and the L-2500 both have a distinctive, modern sort of slap tone.
I think the L-2500 has a fine and clear B string, but the 55-01 B is tighter and has zero floppiness.

 

I believe what Dr. Cheese is saying is spot on, based on every thing I have read, heard and observed. I doubt you'll get wildly differing opinions from what the fine Dr. has said.

I would almost base my decision from this point soley on string spacing, since they both have a good range of tones.

The spacing in only wide at the bridge. Nut width is 1 3/4" IIRC.
So even then spacing may not be an issue.

 

I had a 55-01. It sounded great, but I ended up selling it because I don't have gorilla paws. The 35" scale just didn't work for me. I *really* miss it but it just wasn't as comfortable as my SR5 is.

 

I've owned a 55-01 and I now own a Tribute L2000. It really depends on what you want it for. The 55-01 is a really versatile "Jazzesque" active bass, but the passive option is useless. It has a very smooth sound, but I couldn't get any kind of growl out of it.

My L2000 is amazing! I'm done looking and have found my tone machine! It's truly a passive instrument with a very useful active option. In passive mode the pups are mighty hot and great sounding! You have control over bass and treble cut rather than just a tone control like other passive basses. You have a series and parallel option, which is like having two basses in one.

The active option is excellent too!

 

I also owned a 55-01 . Problem was I play in a variety band and found the tone a bit too aggresive for me , and my needs .
I absolutely loved the string spacing !! Very comfortable .
Great slap tone . Very stable neck . Great components .
More a Jazz tone then a P tone ( I sold it to get a P ) .
I tried a Tribute at a local store and was not impressed .
I have been thinking about buying back the 55-01 and looking into the up-grade pre-amp .
My opinion , is the 55-01 is a very good value .
Any dealers near you ? I had to get mine from Bass Central .
Good luck !

 

I havent played a Skyline


but I own a Tribute L2k. I absolutely love it. Great action, great feeling neck (if you can get used to a Pbass neck) and lots of killer tones.


I like it so much I'm planning on buying an L2500 one day

 

They're both awesome basses.

 

I've owned a 55-01 and a USA L2500.
The 55-01 has wider string spacing and imo scooped tone. Both good for slapping. The L2500 has narrower string spacing. Chunkier neck. usable but not quite as tight B as the 55-01. Does all the fender tones but better IMO.
I got rid of both basses.
The one I miss is the L2500.
I will get another someday.

 

I don't have the biggest hands either, but I do like bigger necks tho. I did try out a Lakland 55-01, but the neck was to big for my taste. I found that the G&L Tribute L-2500 is just right for me. It's also a lot cheaper then the Lakland. I really like the string spacing on the tribute others don't. G&L has also changed the headstock logo on the tributes which look better then the old logos.(mine has the old logo)Dosn't really matter, but it does add a nice touch to the bass.

I'm also not a very big guy and the G&L fits my body better.

good luck in your search...

 

I haven't played an L2500 (I have an SB-1) but the 55-01 is quite versatile. It can be smooth and round or it can cut very well with just a few quick adjustments. String spacing is not an issue; I have an RB5 also, now there's some wide spacing! I think it's a great sounding bass, especially for the price. FWIW, I've heard mostly good things about the Tributes. I myself like the 35" scale, very distinct notes, great B! Tough choice, sorry I'm not much help. Seems like you would do well with either.