Wal Bass Club.

[kulit17]

Have at it, gents.
Beautiful Wal MK3 6-String Bass - Shedua Facings, Mahogany core, Indian Ebony fretboard - NICE!

that's one helluva mark up!!!! @BWorm uzed to own that one and sold it at a steal!

SOLD - Rare WAL Mk3 (1996) 6 String

 

[Toolmybass]

Setting up @graphics1988 2017 MKIII for him, and a new set of strings. Pickup height and poles needed to be totally reset, along with a truss adjustment. But after that the intonation didn't need to be touched! No more fret buzz and one happy customer!!

I was quite impressed on the build quality and how Paul has just continued on with Pete's magic. My first time handling/playing a "post" Pete Wal. Thank you Scott for bringing her by for some TLC.

I am now very tempted to put in an order for a new one. I would DEF plan a trip to visit the shop to collect when ready. Now just to decide what 2 basses to sell that I don't play to pay for the new one lol

 

[kulit17]

View attachment 2779929 Setting up @graphics1988 2017 MKIII for him, and a new set of strings. Pickup height and poles needed to be totally reset, along with a truss adjustment. But after that the intonation didn't need to be touched! No more fret buzz and one happy customer!!

I was quite impressed on the build quality and how Paul has just continued on with Pete's magic. My first time handling/playing a "post" Pete Wal. Thank you Scott for bringing her by for some TLC.

I am now very tempted to put in an order for a new one. I would DEF plan a trip to visit the shop to collect when ready. Now just to decide what 2 basses to sell that I don't play to pay for the new one lol

Indeed!! you should totally take the plunge

@Toolmybass what's your take on the fingerboard on that one?

 

[mikeswals]

Awesome! How does the rocklite fingerboard feel?

 

[Toolmybass]

Indeed!! you should totally take the plunge

@Toolmybass what's your take on the fingerboard on that one?

Awesome! How does the rocklite fingerboard feel?

I actually liked it! Characteristics in feel and sound were basically right in-between a nice Ebony and a hard Rosewood.
Nice and snappy, but still had some warmish sound/feel as Rosewood.
A great compliment to the rippled ash on that bass. I think Scott took a little video of me trying to noodle a bit on his bass and going through the electronics/knob adjustment

 

[Toolmybass]

That MKIII would sound absolutely killer with a gloss finish with that fingerboard. As you Wal owners know, it is pretty easy to back off on that "Geddy twang", just by adjusting the knobs.

 

[graphics1988]

View attachment 2779929 Setting up @graphics1988 2017 MKIII for him, and a new set of strings. Pickup height and poles needed to be totally reset, along with a truss adjustment. But after that the intonation didn't need to be touched! No more fret buzz and one happy customer!!

I was quite impressed on the build quality and how Paul has just continued on with Pete's magic. My first time handling/playing a "post" Pete Wal. Thank you Scott for bringing her by for some TLC.

I am now very tempted to put in an order for a new one. I would DEF plan a trip to visit the shop to collect when ready. Now just to decide what 2 basses to sell that I don't play to pay for the new one lol

THANK YOU!! I was stoked with the bass originally but, as you know, the fret buzz was a bit nasty... you certainly tuned it up too perfection. It is absolutely mind blowing now. (thx!!)
When you're ready, let me know...maybe we can do an order together
....and ya, i was pleasantly surprised with the rocklite fingerboard as well. (no disrespect to anyone here) but i have never been a huge fan of ebony - to MY ears it has a glassy snap to it that is a bit too much - and its visually 'meh'. My fav is BEM, but as i've been told, they dont make those as fretboards unfortunately. The rocklite looks n feels like a black rosewood. LOVE it!! The custom one will be rocklite as well
Thanks again Deaners. Cheers

 

[mikeswals]

Updated the club# list:
# 146 graphics1988


again, if anyone is missing speak up.
1. Oddio
2. lbpark
3. bbocaner
4. Vegas532
5. Hippiesandwich
6. Idiezman
7. Brian Barret
8. Zombywoof5050
9. Hiperi0n
10. Jaymi
11. RonC72
12. Deksawyer
13. M5yates
14. The Hammer
15. tom5string
16. brothernewt
17. knarleybass
18. Anointd
19. cetera
20. cebe
21. incubus2432
22. Caca de Kick
23. Otter
24. evilgus
25. 4001
26. Toolmybass
27. pennex1
28. matthewfoote
29. AceWhip
30. Drop-D
31. WalWarrior
32. PazzoBasso
33. whodom
34. djaxup
35. kulit17
36. Pj,Rj,Hj
37. oli@bass
38. MC1970
39. eligilam
40. bigsnack
41. bassplace
42. Jam119
43. Zenter
44. Erkindanger!
45. Mojo-man
46. AndrewDavis
47. ZuluFunk
48. spiritchaser
49. marcos epm
50. Ricketboy
51. mesajoe
52. RenorCordic
53. Musicman 1901
54. Papersen
55. zazz
56. JAACA
57. Modlad69
58. sorgas
59. philbone
60. Nedsbassman
61. j.kernodle
62. Bass42
63. kubikixfactor
64. AlexBTATS
65. Tjluke
66. FrankChurchyard
67. Maedros
68. jimfist
69. Nibs208
70. hotrodjohn
71. Laneb
72. Melquides
73. Frankzelf
74. lordradish
75. hunterred43
76. bassballs27
77. bdgotoh
78. Surfbr
79. Walmark
80. Walfretless5
81. b-for-beatles
82. janforth
83. brconflict
84. spitskin
85. lang3735
86. Rickenbackerman
87. sgl
88. DigitalMan
89. Jeremy Paul Carroll
90. bass38
91. gargouill
92. kozyko
93. Mastabass666
94. BWorm
95. Marcin Latko
96. Blundomatik
97. Hopper
98. Rusty
99. Nofrets5
100. AndroWal
101. bt1300
102. frigo
103. danweb22
104. Pjmuck
105. musomuso
106 Cuzin Locust
107. jro
108. Derek Smalls
109. Pushifier
110. Kevan
111. yzz
112. LowEndGroover
113. Jansson
114. Scuba Cult
115. Phantom Valley
116. Brandon Cancho
117. coldcashandcolderhearts
118. WaldoNova
119. Dingwaller
120. IngloriousOz
121. kirillstokes
122. Watermelon Man
123. CamdenRob
124. HaloHalo
125. Ccarson26
126. climb
127. Straightup
128. Raspatue
129. SiberianKhatru
130. Matt Golgotha
131. Mattia
132. WaveyDavey
133. jgroh
134. japhy4529
135. TrevorR
136. celinder 72
137. lan Davies
138. berklee46
139. johnxrobertson
140. ercompa
141. tonyespinoza
142. mase_bass
143. Thrillhouse
144. 2112
145. bronzet
146. graphics1988

 

[Toolmybass]

Scott just sent me these. Vid is from just a crappy San-sung-junk phone (lol)
Second vid i was just plugged into my Ampeg Micro-Cl (man is that thing is loud even at number 2 on the volume) These were before i had done the new strings and set-up.
....and yes i know Higher Ground was a MM lol

 

[JB36]

So I thought I’d post my Wal story here. I’ve known about these basses, but have never really paid too much attention or really known anything about them. There was a thread a few weeks ago debating the value of these basses which was typical TB banter. It did however peak my interest greatly. I spent the last few weeks reading everything I could find, including this thread as well YouTube clips.

I started debating in mind used versus a new build. There doesn’t seem to be much for sale used as I’ve been searching the typical sale sites. I started thinking about a build, but specing out an expensive bass can be risky, especially without knowing the brand. Then there’s the infamous two year wait which would be a killer. Another problem is I’ve seen so many configurations that I’ve liked that’s it been hard to narrow down my choices. My first thought is a MK3 black with a matching head stock. The smaller body, weight, and 24 frets are all things I prefer since I’ve been playing Spectors almost exclusively the past three years.

Again, not too much on the used market, but somehow I missed one right here on TB. It was listed with several other basses. It ticks many of the boxes for me. Black, matching head stock, and ebony fret board which very cool. I do dig the MK1, but the size of the body, less frets may take an adjustment. I’m usually adaptable so I’ll give an honest go. 10 pounds is a tad heavier than I’d like, but I use a wide, padded comfort strap which will help. All rationale escaped me when I saw this bass. My poor bank account didn’t stand a chance as it shrunk immediately.

I figure this bass will do one of three things. I’ll love the Ian Waller 80’s vibe of a Mark1 and it will be a keeper. It will fit in nicely with my 80s era Spectors will I love. It’s possible I don’t like the tone and the preamp which more complicated than my simple 2 band boost and cut mind. It could also end up being a gateway to a new build. Anyways it’s got a week trip from the west coast to the east I’m super excited to give it a try.

It’s the last bass listed: For Sale - Enfield, Marco, Mike Lull, Rob Allen, Sadowsky, Wal basses

Frank

 

[mase_bass]

So I thought I’d post my Wal story here. I’ve know about these basses, but have never really paid too much attention or really known anything about them. There was a thread a few weeks ago debating the value of these basses which was typical TB banter. It did however peak my interest greatly. I spent the last few weeks reading everything I could find, including this thread as well YouTube clips.

I started debating in mind used versus a new build. There doesn’t seem to be much for sale used as I’ve been searching the typical sale sites. I started thinking about a build, but specing out an expensive bass can be risky, especially without knowing the brand. Then there’s the infamous two year wait which would be a killer. Another problem is I’ve seen so many configurations that I’ve liked that’s it been hard to narrow down my choices. My first thought is a MK3 black with a matching head stock. The smaller body, weight, and 24 frets are all things I prefer since I’ve been playing Spectors almost exclusively the past three years.

Again, not too much on the used market, but somehow I missed one right here on TB. It was listed with several other basses. It ticks many of the boxes for me. Black, matching head stock, and ebony fret board which very cool. I do dig the MK1, but the size of the body, less frets may take an adjustment. I’m usually adaptable so I’ll give an honest go. 10 pounds is a tad heavier than I’d like, but I use a wide, padded comfort strap which will help. All rationale escaped me when I saw this bass. My poor bank account didn’t stand a chance as it shrunk immediately.

I figure this bass will do one of three things. I’ll love the Ian Waller 80’s vibe of a Mark1 and it will be a keeper. It will fit in nicely with my 80s era Spectors will I love. It’s possible I don’t like the tone and the preamp which more complicated than my simple 2 band boost and cut mind. It could also end up being a gateway to a new build. Anyways it’s got a week trip from the west coast to the east I’m super excited to give it a try.

It’s the last bass listed: For Sale - Enfield, Marco, Mike Lull, Rob Allen, Sadowsky, Wal basses

Frank

congrats frank. sweet MK1. pretty sure you will be happy with it, if you are not....let me know update us with some pics once received.

 

[bdgotoh]

So I thought I’d post my Wal story here. I’ve known about these basses, but have never really paid too much attention or really known anything about them. There was a thread a few weeks ago debating the value of these basses which was typical TB banter. It did however peak my interest greatly. I spent the last few weeks reading everything I could find, including this thread as well YouTube clips.

I started debating in mind used versus a new build. There doesn’t seem to be much for sale used as I’ve been searching the typical sale sites. I started thinking about a build, but specing out an expensive bass can be risky, especially without knowing the brand. Then there’s the infamous two year wait which would be a killer. Another problem is I’ve seen so many configurations that I’ve liked that’s it been hard to narrow down my choices. My first thought is a MK3 black with a matching head stock. The smaller body, weight, and 24 frets are all things I prefer since I’ve been playing Spectors almost exclusively the past three years.

Again, not too much on the used market, but somehow I missed one right here on TB. It was listed with several other basses. It ticks many of the boxes for me. Black, matching head stock, and ebony fret board which very cool. I do dig the MK1, but the size of the body, less frets may take an adjustment. I’m usually adaptable so I’ll give an honest go. 10 pounds is a tad heavier than I’d like, but I use a wide, padded comfort strap which will help. All rationale escaped me when I saw this bass. My poor bank account didn’t stand a chance as it shrunk immediately.

I figure this bass will do one of three things. I’ll love the Ian Waller 80’s vibe of a Mark1 and it will be a keeper. It will fit in nicely with my 80s era Spectors will I love. It’s possible I don’t like the tone and the preamp which more complicated than my simple 2 band boost and cut mind. It could also end up being a gateway to a new build. Anyways it’s got a week trip from the west coast to the east I’m super excited to give it a try.

It’s the last bass listed: For Sale - Enfield, Marco, Mike Lull, Rob Allen, Sadowsky, Wal basses

Frank

Welcome to the club Frank! It's too bad we don't live close to each other, you could have compared your Mk1 to my Mk3. I think you'll really like the Mk1, it should hang like your Spectors do.

 

[mikeswals]

Wow, congrats Frank on your first Wal. I used to play Spectors, and really to me a typical old NS2/NS4 are hefty too and feel about the same weight as an old Wal.
But I'm glad you bought it as I was thinking about it since Brad is local.

The controls are easy to figure, its a tone knob for each pickup, and think of it like the earliest stack knob Jazz Bass; where you filter the highs from each pickup. Then experiment from there.

 

[JB36]

Wow, congrats Frank on your first Wal. I used to play Spectors, and really to me a typical old NS2/NS4 are hefty too and feel about the same weight as an old Wal.
But I'm glad you bought it as I was thinking about it since Brad is local.

The controls are easy to figure, its a tone knob for each pickup, and think of it like the earliest stack knob Jazz Bass; where you filter the highs from each pickup. Then experiment from there.

There’s a a good video in YouTube, I think from a club member with an MK1 and he gives a good run down on the controls. I should be able to figure it out.

Spectors can be heavy, but I have and have owned a few that were under well under 9. I have a mid 90s era SSD era bass that’s going to be close to the Wal. It sounds amazing so it’s in the rotation. I just don’t like to bring it rehearsals I know will be really long.

 

[JB36]

Welcome to the club Frank! It's too bad we don't live close to each other, you could have compared your Mk1 to my Mk3. I think you'll really like the Mk1, it should hang like your Spectors do.

Can you describe the differences between the 2 basses? I know fret access in the upper register would be one.

 

[bdgotoh]

They sound and feel very similar to me, but the balance on a strap is different due to the location of the upper strap button. The Mk1 rests with the neck more parallel to the floor for me, the Mk3 has a more upright neck position.

 

[TrevorR]

So I thought I’d post my Wal story here. I’ve known about these basses, but have never really paid too much attention or really known anything about them. There was a thread a few weeks ago debating the value of these basses which was typical TB banter. It did however peak my interest greatly. I spent the last few weeks reading everything I could find, including this thread as well YouTube clips.

I started debating in mind used versus a new build. There doesn’t seem to be much for sale used as I’ve been searching the typical sale sites. I started thinking about a build, but specing out an expensive bass can be risky, especially without knowing the brand. Then there’s the infamous two year wait which would be a killer. Another problem is I’ve seen so many configurations that I’ve liked that’s it been hard to narrow down my choices. My first thought is a MK3 black with a matching head stock. The smaller body, weight, and 24 frets are all things I prefer since I’ve been playing Spectors almost exclusively the past three years.

Again, not too much on the used market, but somehow I missed one right here on TB. It was listed with several other basses. It ticks many of the boxes for me. Black, matching head stock, and ebony fret board which very cool. I do dig the MK1, but the size of the body, less frets may take an adjustment. I’m usually adaptable so I’ll give an honest go. 10 pounds is a tad heavier than I’d like, but I use a wide, padded comfort strap which will help. All rationale escaped me when I saw this bass. My poor bank account didn’t stand a chance as it shrunk immediately.

I figure this bass will do one of three things. I’ll love the Ian Waller 80’s vibe of a Mark1 and it will be a keeper. It will fit in nicely with my 80s era Spectors will I love. It’s possible I don’t like the tone and the preamp which more complicated than my simple 2 band boost and cut mind. It could also end up being a gateway to a new build. Anyways it’s got a week trip from the west coast to the east I’m super excited to give it a try.

It’s the last bass listed: For Sale - Enfield, Marco, Mike Lull, Rob Allen, Sadowsky, Wal basses

Frank

Congratulations, you won’t regret it! Looking forward to your NBD review. If you’re on Facebook say “Hi” at the Wal group over there. There’s a sticky on the page where players have listed some of their fave settings. Good place to start exploring the Wal tone controls...

 

[LowEndGroover]

So I thought I’d post my Wal story here. I’ve know about these basses, but have never really paid too much attention or really known anything about them. There was a thread a few weeks ago debating the value of these basses which was typical TB banter. It did however peak my interest greatly. I spent the last few weeks reading everything I could find, including this thread as well YouTube clips.

I started debating in mind used versus a new build. There doesn’t seem to be much for sale used as I’ve been searching the typical sale sites. I started thinking about a build, but specing out an expensive bass can be risky, especially without knowing the brand. Then there’s the infamous two year wait which would be a killer. Another problem is I’ve seen so many configurations that I’ve liked that’s it been hard to narrow down my choices. My first thought is a MK3 black with a matching head stock. The smaller body, weight, and 24 frets are all things I prefer since I’ve been playing Spectors almost exclusively the past three years.

Again, not too much on the used market, but somehow I missed one right here on TB. It was listed with several other basses. It ticks many of the boxes for me. Black, matching head stock, and ebony fret board which very cool. I do dig the MK1, but the size of the body, less frets may take an adjustment. I’m usually adaptable so I’ll give an honest go. 10 pounds is a tad heavier than I’d like, but I use a wide, padded comfort strap which will help. All rationale escaped me when I saw this bass. My poor bank account didn’t stand a chance as it shrunk immediately.

I figure this bass will do one of three things. I’ll love the Ian Waller 80’s vibe of a Mark1 and it will be a keeper. It will fit in nicely with my 80s era Spectors will I love. It’s possible I don’t like the tone and the preamp which more complicated than my simple 2 band boost and cut mind. It could also end up being a gateway to a new build. Anyways it’s got a week trip from the west coast to the east I’m super excited to give it a try.

It’s the last bass listed: For Sale - Enfield, Marco, Mike Lull, Rob Allen, Sadowsky, Wal basses

Frank

Congrats on the Wal. It looks really nice!!!

 

[djaxup]

Congrats! We need pics asap

I also love Spectors... but that Wal grind/grunt/quak is so unique.. you will love it to bits. It is not a bass for every situation - I know mine certainly isn't! - but it sounds super gorgeous and cuts through in any mix.

My most favorite thing is that it seems to have a built in crunch to it's sound. It sounds like it has a midly breaking up valve amp built in. It sounds so, so good even with it's DI out directly into the PA.

 

[TrevorR]

...It is not a bass for every situation - I know mine certainly isn't..!

Ooooooh, I have to disagree with you on that... I've never found a single situation where my Mk 1 couldn't dial up a perfect sound to ace it! From punchy rock tones to plummy ballads, even to a sort of pseudo "upright"-suggestive tone. Perfect for the gig every time, whatever the gig!

...but it sounds super gorgeous and cuts through in any mix.

My most favorite thing is that it seems to have a built in crunch to it's sound. It sounds like it has a midly breaking up valve amp built in. It sounds so, so good even with it's DI out directly into the PA.

Mind you I do agree with every single other word you said!