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What brand has all your loyalty?

#382
No brand has *all* my loyalty. Also, my loyalty is not automatically renewed... has to be re-certified, so to speak.

That said, I will list some gear companies that have earned my greatest respect for product quality and customer support:

Tech 21 -- listed first because I bought the BDDI in the late 80's, and a bunch of other products since
Bergantino -- I've been mostly loyal to them for two decades
Sadowsky -- got my first NYC in 2005, have ordered two more since
Darkglass -- relative newcomer to this list (5 years), but many of their products have become favorites
Reiner Amplification -- Jonathan is somewhat local to me (same state). I own and use amplifiers, speaker cabinets, and an overdrive pedal that were all designed and built by his hand




There are numerous honorable mentions, but for brevity's sake I restricted my list to multiple/significant purchases that have remained in my A List for gig use
 
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#384
Sam Dingle said:
Fender has mine. An obvious choice. They have everything that I need. I'm at:

American Standard Jazz Bass with rounds
American Standard P Bass with flats
Elite 5 string with rounds
77 Music Master with tapewounds
Mexican fretless with flats

what company are you committed to?
Click to expand...

Warning: Rant to commence in 3, 2, 1, ...

Given 40 years of bass playing, etc., and having spent a small fortune on musical equipment during this time, my take on brand loyalty can be reduced to a very basic premise, when needs be; as I might argue, is now. Sure; you will find posts written by myself that sing the praises of various companies e.g., Line 6, etc., and brands e.g., Boss Pedals, Harley Benton basses, etc., but that's actually extremely misleading in the context of so-called "brand loyalty".

You see, IMHO, when "push comes to shove" (whatever that means), brand and/or company loyalty is a mindset that suits the provider, not the customer; they maintain it, we're expected to conform to it. After all, we are humans (for the main part, with the possible exception of a few vocalist I have run into) and, as such, we need to "belong". Hence, it's hardly surprising that we adopt the tribal behaviours associated with identifying with and defending matters based on brand or product loyalty. As above, I am no exception; usually ...

... however, when the "chips are down" (again, ... ***?), none of this matters; not one iota. Simply put, the brands are a means to an end, based on the objectives of the companies that provide them. Simplifying further, their objectives can be reduced to a single goal: To make money. And who do they target to do this?; well, you, me; in fact, anybody who is willing to part with their hard earned cash.

More over, companies are typically ruthless when it comes to maximising profits e.g., chopping and changing product lines, switching markets, etc.; indeed, whatever it takes to make more money. After all, that's why they exist and branding is a means to their ends; which isn't always conducive with their customer base. However, none of this matters ...

... in summary, companies use branding to exploit their revenue sources (sometimes referred to as customers) to make money. They will, and do, chop and change to suit and care not about anything else, including you and I e.g., as soon as they identify a more lucrative market in which we play no part, we are no longer relevant. Hence, the brands "disappear", the companies move on and we are left with whatever unsupported legacy products we bought; and for a large part, purchased under the influence of misplaced brand loyalty.

Hence, in conclusion, if you believe that companies give a f**k about you, think again. You are a revenue source and will be treated accordingly. You will be lured by branding, etc.; you will purchase accordingly; but you will also be "dumped" at the discretion of the companies involved. They care not, and thus, when it comes to branding and company loyalty, I reciprocate in exactly the same manner: I care not. I buy what I want/need as pragmatically as I can, based on the best information I can find; which is not found in the language associated with branding. It's a misnomer, perpetuated by companies. We are, of course, involved; but, just as long as it suits them, not us.

Being somewhat blunt: Brand loyalty? F**k that. Loyalty is a two way street, so don't let them fool you. Instead, use your common sense and basic intelligence. See through the charade; buy what you really want and/or need; not what they companies would like you to. To hell with them, and their branding. Make informed choices about your purchases; live long and prosper.

... and "cut". Rant #1, Take #1; it's a wrap folks. Good night, may your god go with you and, please, be safe: Stay indoors; avoid CV-19 and all forms of branding. We can and we will get through this.
 
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#385
bassfiddlesteve said:
For me it's the following:

Fender:
1972 Precision Bass
‘62 Reissue Jazz Bass
American Elite Jazz Bass
American Standard Stratocaster
Champion 40 amplifier (guitar)

Markbass:
CMD 121P combo
New York 121 cabinet
Markacoustic AC101 combo

Fishman:
Full Circle Double Bass Pickup
Platinum Stage Preamp
Loudbox Mini Amplifier

View media item 21984
- Steve
Click to expand...

looks like you need a 5 string...
 
#387
RJI777 said:
Warning: Rant to commence in 3, 2, 1, ...

Given 40 years of bass playing, etc., and having spent a small fortune on musical equipment during this time, my take on brand loyalty can be reduced to a very basic premise, when needs be; as I might argue, is now. Sure; you will find posts written by myself that sing the praises of various companies e.g., Line 6, etc., and brands e.g., Boss Pedals, Harley Benton basses, etc., but that's actually extremely misleading in the context of so-called "brand loyalty".

You see, IMHO, when "push comes to shove" (whatever that means), brand and/or company loyalty is a mindset that suits the provider, not the customer; they maintain it, we're expected to conform to it. After all, we are humans (for the main part, with the possible exception of a few vocalist I have run into) and, as such, we need to "belong". Hence, it's hardly surprising that we adopt the tribal behaviours associated with identifying with and defending matters based on brand or product loyalty. As above, I am no exception; usually ...

... however, when the "chips are down" (again, ... ***?), none of this matters; not one iota. Simply put, the brands are a means to an end, based on the objectives of the companies that provide them. Simplifying further, their objectives can be reduced to a single goal: To make money. And who do they target to do this?; well, you, me; in fact, anybody who is willing to part with their hard earned cash.

More over, companies are typically ruthless when it comes to maximising profits e.g., chopping and changing product lines, switching markets, etc.; indeed, whatever it takes to make more money. After all, that's why they exist and branding is a means to their ends; which isn't always conducive with their customer base. However, none of this matters ...

... in summary, companies use branding to exploit their revenue sources (sometimes referred to as customers) to make money. They will, and do, chop and change to suit and care not about anything else, including you and I e.g., as soon as they identify a more lucrative market in which we play no part, we are no longer relevant. Hence, the brands "disappear", the companies move on and we are left with whatever unsupported legacy products we bought; and for a large part, purchased under the influence of misplaced brand loyalty.

Hence, in conclusion, if you believe that companies give a f**k about you, think again. You are a revenue source and will be treated accordingly. You will be lured by branding, etc.; you will purchase accordingly; but you will also be "dumped" at the discretion of the companies involved. They care not, and thus, when it comes to branding and company loyalty, I reciprocate in exactly the same manner: I care not. I buy what I want/need as pragmatically as I can, based on the best information I can find; which is not found in the language associated with branding. It's a misnomer, perpetuated by companies. We are, of course, involved; but, just as long as it suits them, not us.

Being somewhat blunt: Brand loyalty? F**k that. Loyalty is a two way street, so don't let them fool you. Instead, use your common sense and basic intelligence. See through the charade; buy what you really want and/or need; not what they companies would like you to. To hell with them, and their branding. Make informed choices about your purchases; live long and prosper.

... and "cut". Rant #1, Take #1; it's a wrap folks. Good night, may your god go with you and, please, be safe: Stay indoors; avoid CV-19 and all forms of branding. We can and we will get through this.
Click to expand...

RJI: All this to say "buy what you like"? Thank goodness there are so many choices.
 
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#388
johnnynitro said:
Fender/Ampeg/Rotosounds
Click to expand...
Yup, me too. I’ve had two Ric’s and still have one, in my many years Fender has been my go to !
Have never bought new and prefer US or MIJ. With stage “rash” they all will get, the bang for the buck, well always been good to me.
Rotosound 66’s always, from the first set, early 70’s. As soon as I “found” them.
Ampeg SVT. Enough said
I do have a GK 700 rbII with 2
RBH cab’s. Like them both different sound when needed
I will add Tech 21 pre amps to the GK set up.
So those 4 always good by me.
 
#390
RJI777 said:
Warning: Rant to commence in 3, 2, 1, ...

Given 40 years of bass playing, etc., and having spent a small fortune on musical equipment during this time, my take on brand loyalty can be reduced to a very basic premise, when needs be; as I might argue, is now. Sure; you will find posts written by myself that sing the praises of various companies e.g., Line 6, etc., and brands e.g., Boss Pedals, Harley Benton basses, etc., but that's actually extremely misleading in the context of so-called "brand loyalty".

You see, IMHO, when "push comes to shove" (whatever that means), brand and/or company loyalty is a mindset that suits the provider, not the customer; they maintain it, we're expected to conform to it. After all, we are humans (for the main part, with the possible exception of a few vocalist I have run into) and, as such, we need to "belong". Hence, it's hardly surprising that we adopt the tribal behaviours associated with identifying with and defending matters based on brand or product loyalty. As above, I am no exception; usually ...

... however, when the "chips are down" (again, ... ***?), none of this matters; not one iota. Simply put, the brands are a means to an end, based on the objectives of the companies that provide them. Simplifying further, their objectives can be reduced to a single goal: To make money. And who do they target to do this?; well, you, me; in fact, anybody who is willing to part with their hard earned cash.

More over, companies are typically ruthless when it comes to maximising profits e.g., chopping and changing product lines, switching markets, etc.; indeed, whatever it takes to make more money. After all, that's why they exist and branding is a means to their ends; which isn't always conducive with their customer base. However, none of this matters ...

... in summary, companies use branding to exploit their revenue sources (sometimes referred to as customers) to make money. They will, and do, chop and change to suit and care not about anything else, including you and I e.g., as soon as they identify a more lucrative market in which we play no part, we are no longer relevant. Hence, the brands "disappear", the companies move on and we are left with whatever unsupported legacy products we bought; and for a large part, purchased under the influence of misplaced brand loyalty.

Hence, in conclusion, if you believe that companies give a f**k about you, think again. You are a revenue source and will be treated accordingly. You will be lured by branding, etc.; you will purchase accordingly; but you will also be "dumped" at the discretion of the companies involved. They care not, and thus, when it comes to branding and company loyalty, I reciprocate in exactly the same manner: I care not. I buy what I want/need as pragmatically as I can, based on the best information I can find; which is not found in the language associated with branding. It's a misnomer, perpetuated by companies. We are, of course, involved; but, just as long as it suits them, not us.

Being somewhat blunt: Brand loyalty? F**k that. Loyalty is a two way street, so don't let them fool you. Instead, use your common sense and basic intelligence. See through the charade; buy what you really want and/or need; not what they companies would like you to. To hell with them, and their branding. Make informed choices about your purchases; live long and prosper.

... and "cut". Rant #1, Take #1; it's a wrap folks. Good night, may your god go with you and, please, be safe: Stay indoors; avoid CV-19 and all forms of branding. We can and we will get through this.
Click to expand...
Wow.
 
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#392
RJI777 said:
Warning: Rant to commence in 3, 2, 1, ...

Given 40 years of bass playing, etc., and having spent a small fortune on musical equipment during this time, my take on brand loyalty can be reduced to a very basic premise, when needs be; as I might argue, is now. Sure; you will find posts written by myself that sing the praises of various companies e.g., Line 6, etc., and brands e.g., Boss Pedals, Harley Benton basses, etc., but that's actually extremely misleading in the context of so-called "brand loyalty".

You see, IMHO, when "push comes to shove" (whatever that means), brand and/or company loyalty is a mindset that suits the provider, not the customer; they maintain it, we're expected to conform to it. After all, we are humans (for the main part, with the possible exception of a few vocalist I have run into) and, as such, we need to "belong". Hence, it's hardly surprising that we adopt the tribal behaviours associated with identifying with and defending matters based on brand or product loyalty. As above, I am no exception; usually ...

... however, when the "chips are down" (again, ... ***?), none of this matters; not one iota. Simply put, the brands are a means to an end, based on the objectives of the companies that provide them. Simplifying further, their objectives can be reduced to a single goal: To make money. And who do they target to do this?; well, you, me; in fact, anybody who is willing to part with their hard earned cash.

More over, companies are typically ruthless when it comes to maximising profits e.g., chopping and changing product lines, switching markets, etc.; indeed, whatever it takes to make more money. After all, that's why they exist and branding is a means to their ends; which isn't always conducive with their customer base. However, none of this matters ...

... in summary, companies use branding to exploit their revenue sources (sometimes referred to as customers) to make money. They will, and do, chop and change to suit and care not about anything else, including you and I e.g., as soon as they identify a more lucrative market in which we play no part, we are no longer relevant. Hence, the brands "disappear", the companies move on and we are left with whatever unsupported legacy products we bought; and for a large part, purchased under the influence of misplaced brand loyalty.

Hence, in conclusion, if you believe that companies give a f**k about you, think again. You are a revenue source and will be treated accordingly. You will be lured by branding, etc.; you will purchase accordingly; but you will also be "dumped" at the discretion of the companies involved. They care not, and thus, when it comes to branding and company loyalty, I reciprocate in exactly the same manner: I care not. I buy what I want/need as pragmatically as I can, based on the best information I can find; which is not found in the language associated with branding. It's a misnomer, perpetuated by companies. We are, of course, involved; but, just as long as it suits them, not us.

Being somewhat blunt: Brand loyalty? F**k that. Loyalty is a two way street, so don't let them fool you. Instead, use your common sense and basic intelligence. See through the charade; buy what you really want and/or need; not what they companies would like you to. To hell with them, and their branding. Make informed choices about your purchases; live long and prosper.

... and "cut". Rant #1, Take #1; it's a wrap folks. Good night, may your god go with you and, please, be safe: Stay indoors; avoid CV-19 and all forms of branding. We can and we will get through this.
Click to expand...

Ok, you have a point.

I know in the companies I listed I have listed it might be a bit different, since I have a professional working relationship with all of them.
 
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#393
Sam Dingle said:
looks like you need a 5 string...
Click to expand...

Even my banjo has only four strings.

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- Steve
 
#396
martinc said:
Hounddog: Maybe our choices were made after we had tried several other basses before landing on the ones we post about. That is not limiting yourself.
Click to expand...

possibly, but are you now not trying anything else? did you make your decision 5 years ago? tons of new stuff coming out every year. if you are now locked into a brand, you are limiting yourself.
If you are not brand loyal, you would be more willing to give something else a try next month, next year.

Looking for a new bass or amp today? I am not limiting myself to anyone one brand. I want to try everything that is out there before I make a decision.

My last bass I had bought after a long time playing a Fender Jazz, was a Ric4003s that I bought new in 2016. Love that bass. But it didnt stop me from picking up a Epiphone Vintage Pro T-Bird 2 years later. Another awesome bass, that is quality way above its price point. Now 2 years later, I just picked up a G&L SB-2. another great bass.

Is that going to stop me from getting another Jazz or somethig like an Ibanez? heck no. Next time I get the urge to buy a bass, I will be looking at any and all OEM. That is not limiting myself.
 
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