SOLD Warwick Fortress Masterman 5

Gave this beast a decent trial run for a few months. It's got a really unique sound, similar to a Music Man, but with its own deep-growling twist.

I've taken good care of it while I've had it (as I do with any instrument), but even I'm in awe of what kind of condition this thing is in.

It's not my cup of tea, but it's a really amazing bass that deserves a good home. It's in superb condition, and has one tiny little nick on the lower horn about the size of a pencil eraser. It's not really that noticeable, but just giving full disclosure.

Other than that, the fretwork and neck are like new. It's a 1999, and the neck is Ovangkol, the fretboard is Wenge. The body is Maple. The horn makes it very well balanced.

The finish is called "Nirvana Black", which is Warwick's proprietary colored oil-finish. This finish is really dark and smooth looking, and it has a satin-feeling to it when played. Don't even need a sweatband!

The neck is slimmer than you'd expect (if you're used to playing Warwicks). I think it might have something to do with the year, but when playing on a 5 string of a more modern era, there was a definite difference in grip. I'd say this [almost] vintage neck is way more comfortable.

As I said, the sound is like a MM Stingray. It's not QUITE the same, but it's in the same market.

Any questions will be answered.

Edit: More pics added. That nick is the only sign of use on the entire bass.

 

I remember the thread lol.

 

Coincidentally, I just got a Streamer Stage 1 and I'm in heaven. But the cost was like double this. Lol

 

It's still here man!

 

After owning both a five string $$ and this one, I compared the two side by side. This one has a stronger low b. The $$ had features that I liked too, more based around its attack-tones and the neck pickup's integration. I believe the exposed poles give a $$ a bit more harmonic overtone, while the Masterman has more of a throaty snarl.

I can't speak for Fender 5s but my double buck had a splendid B. I've heard Fenders are better for 4 stringers than 5s- and while I'm definitely more of a 4 string player, I like my 5s to be strong. The Masterman fits that bill.

This thing is bursting with tone as well, and I believe it gets its stronger B string from the space between the B and the pickup.

The attacks are very defined without a lot of snapback clacking. And it just feels a lot less crowded than a double buck. (Don't get me wrong. My $$ 4 is one of my main instruments).

I would call this instrument highly unique and it's a perfect midground between a prized Thumb and a Music Man Stingray. It has much less mid-centric attack than my thumb NT, and while the Thumb blasts every attack, the Masterman is more of a throbbing tone by comparison. It's stupid-good for metal.

I know that's more than you asked for. But I figured I'd kill a few birds.

Basses mentioned. I'll miss my blue fiver- but my 4 is just as good with a little more legroom for my playing style.

 

Nope!